Get ready to spread some holiday cheer with these delightful Christmas Lofthouse Cookies! Soft, fluffy, and topped with a sweet frosting, they are perfect for festive gatherings and cookie exchanges.
Tips for Success
Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for the best texture. Trust me, this part's so satisfying!
Why You'll Love Them
These cookies are not only delicious but also a canvas for your creativity with frosting and sprinkles. You’ve got to try this one!
Ingredients
- For the cookies:
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- For the frosting:
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Instructions
- Make the cookie dough:
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Step 1- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Step 2- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
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Step 3- Cream butter and sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula. On low speed, add the egg, sour cream, vanilla, and almond extract (if using). Turn the speed to medium and beat until the mixture is thicker (will look slightly curdled), about 2 minutes. Scrape down the bowl again. On low speed, gradually add the flour mixture, beating until just combined.
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Step 4- Shape the cookies: Using a medium spring-loaded scoop (1 ½ tablespoons), drop balls of cookie dough onto prepared sheets in four rows of three. Roll each ball until smooth, then flatten them to ¼-inch thick with the palm of your hand. If the dough is too sticky, dampen your hands slightly as needed.
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Step 5- Bake the cookies: Bake until the cookies appear dry on the top but still pale at the edges, about 11 minutes.
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Step 6- Cool the cookies: Place on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the frosting:
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Step 7- Mix frosting ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the sugar and butter. Mix on low speed until smooth and then increase the speed to medium and beat for another 3 minutes.
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Step 8- Add vanilla and cream: Add the salt, vanilla, and cream and beat on medium speed for 1 minute, adding more cream if needed. Add the food color, if using.
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Step 9- Frost the cookies: Frost each cookie with a heaping tablespoon of frosting. Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to spread it evenly. If you'd like to add sprinkles, do so right after frosting each cookie, as the frosting can set quickly. Allow the cookies to sit for about 4 hours or until the frosting is firm. This time may vary depending on your kitchen's humidity.
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Step 10- Store the cookies: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to six days or up to six weeks in the freezer. Thaw in fridge overnight, then let come to room temperature before serving. Note that coloring of sprinkles may bleed when frozen and thawed.
Nutrition
- Calories: 150, Fat: 5g, Carbs: 24g, Protein: 1g
Cooking techniques
Mixing, baking, and frosting are key techniques for these cookies. The creaming method helps achieve a light and fluffy texture.
Variations or substitutions
Try different extracts in the frosting, like peppermint or lemon, for a unique twist. You can also use different colors of gel food coloring to match your holiday theme!
Storage tips
Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for longer storage. Remember to let them thaw properly to maintain their texture!
Notes
These cookies are a perfect treat for your holiday celebrations! Enjoy the process and don't forget to have fun decorating!
