Lofthouse Christmas Cookies

There’s something magical about the holiday season, especially when it comes to baking. The warm scents of vanilla and sugar wafting through the house, the soft twinkling lights, and the laughter of loved ones create a nostalgic backdrop for holiday traditions. Among the decorations and celebrations, Lofthouse Christmas Cookies hold a special place in the hearts of many. These delightfully soft, frosted cookies, with their pillowy texture and colorful icing, bring a sense of joy that transcends generations.

In this recipe, we’ll perfect the art of making these festive cookies right at home. You’ll be able to savor their deliciousness while creating heartwarming memories in the kitchen. Let’s get started on this sweet journey!

Quick Recipe Overview Box

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-27 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty: Easy
Key Ingredients: All-purpose flour, sugar, butter, eggs, baking powder, vanilla extract, milk
Dietary Tags: Vegetarian

Quick Answer

Lofthouse Christmas Cookies are soft, cake-like sugar cookies topped with a creamy frosting and festive sprinkles. They are perfect for holiday gatherings and baking with kids!

Why Make This Recipe

Lofthouse Christmas Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a nostalgic bite of childhood that brings back warm memories of family gatherings and holiday cheer. Their plush texture and sweet icing make them irresistible. You’ll find joy in kneading the dough, cutting out shapes, and decorating your cookies. Each cookie not only tastes delightful but makes the holiday season feel more magical. Plus, the opportunity to bake and create with family adds an extra layer of warmth and connection.

How to Make Lofthouse Christmas Cookies

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out fluffy.
Prepare Baking Sheets
Line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to facilitate easy cleanup.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Set this aside; it’ll be used later for the dough.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, use a hand mixer to cream together 1 cup of softened butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mix, making your cookies fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for that warm, comforting flavor.
Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to your butter mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling allows flavors to meld and prevents spreading during baking.
Shape and Bake
Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool Completely
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frost and Decorate
While the cookies are cooling, prepare your icing. In a bowl, beat together 2 cups of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and a teaspoon of vanilla until smooth. Spread the icing over cooled cookies and add sprinkles for a festive touch.

Troubleshooting Tip

If your cookies spread too much while baking, ensure your dough is adequately chilled. Additionally, over-creaming the butter and sugar can cause cookies to spread. Always err on the side of slightly less mixing when combining wet and dry ingredients.

Why This Recipe Works (The Science)

The secret to Lofthouse cookies lies in the balance of ingredients. The combination of baking powder and the sugar creates a light, airy texture. Butter, when creamed correctly, adds not only flavor but also a rich tenderness, ensuring each bite is melt-in-your-mouth good.

Science Tip

Letting the dough chill is essential. It solidifies the fat, helping to reduce spreading and allowing the cookies to hold their shape, resulting in thick and soft cookies.

Expert Insight

Using real vanilla extract instead of imitation will elevate the flavor profile of your cookies, making them taste distinctly homemade. Consider experimenting with almond extract for a unique twist!

How to Serve Lofthouse Christmas Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa. Serve them on a festive plate surrounded by seasonal decorations for a lovely presentation.

How to Store Lofthouse Christmas Cookies

Store your Lofthouse cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Tips to Make Lofthouse Christmas Cookies

Try Different Flavors
Feel free to experiment with flavored extracts or zest from citrus fruits to give your cookies a unique flair.
Use A Piping Bag for Icing
For more decorative icing, use a piping bag with a round tip to add swirls or patterns on your cookies.
Decorate for Various Holidays
Change up your sprinkles or icing colors to match different holidays or celebrations throughout the year.
Double the Batch
These cookies are a hit during the holiday season, so consider making a double batch to share with friends and family.

Variations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use vegan butter and almond milk for a dairy-free version.
Vegan Variation: Replace eggs with flax eggs, and choose plant-based milk for the frosting.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze Lofthouse cookies?
A: Yes! They freeze beautifully. Just place them in an airtight container, with parchment paper between layers, for up to three months.

Q: What’s the best way to decorate them?
A: Use royal icing for a smooth finish, or simple buttercream for a whimsical look topped with colorful sprinkles.

Q: How do I know when the cookies are done?
A: When the edges are set and lightly golden, you’ll know they are ready! The centers may still look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to cook as they cool.

Nutritional Information

| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| ——– | —————— |
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |

Conclusion

Lofthouse Christmas Cookies are not just a delicious treat; they embody the warmth and joy of the holiday season. This recipe allows you to create these beloved cookies right in your own kitchen, ready to share with family and friends. As you bake and decorate, you take a step into a world of cozy memories and festive spirit. Enjoy every sweet bite and make the holiday season even more special with these delightful treats. Happy baking!