Gluten Free Lofthouse Cookies

If you’ve ever stepped into a bakery and been greeted by the soft, frosted allure of Lofthouse cookies, you know exactly what I’m talking about. These pillowy delights are a nostalgic treat, perfect for any occasion, and now they can be enjoyed by everyone, including those who need gluten-free options! This recipe for Gluten Free Lofthouse Cookies captures the essence of the classic cookie while ensuring that every bite is just as satisfying. With a tender crumb, buttery flavor, and sweet frosting, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up a batch of these beauties in your own kitchen.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Gluten Free Lofthouse Cookies are not just for those who follow a gluten-free diet; they are perfect for anyone who loves a soft, sweet cookie. The rich, buttery taste and creamy frosting are sure to please both children and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or simply need a sweet treat for yourself, these cookies are a hit. The colorful frosting and sprinkles add a festive touch that makes them visually appealing too!

Ingredients at a Glance

• 2 cups (240 grams) gluten free 1:1 flour (I use King Arthur Gluten Free Measure For Measure Flour; other brands may yield different results)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup (1 stick, 1/4 pound) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup salted butter (or unsalted plus 1/4 teaspoon salt)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Pink food coloring (or your preferred color, optional)
• Rainbow sprinkles (optional)

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Mixing bowls – for combining your ingredients.
• Electric mixer – helps achieve a fluffy texture.
• Baking sheets – lined with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Cookie cutters (optional) – for fun shapes.
• Cooling rack – essential for cooling your cookies completely.

Step-by-Step: Gluten Free Lofthouse Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten free flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Egg and Extracts

Add the large egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined.

Step 5: Incorporate the Sour Cream

Next, add the sour cream to the wet mixture and continue to mix until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop heaping spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; that’s perfect! Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the salted butter (or unsalted with added salt) until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and milk, adjusting the consistency with more milk if necessary. If desired, add food coloring to achieve your preferred shade.

Step 10: Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies have cooled completely, generously frost each cookie with the prepared frosting. Top with rainbow sprinkles for a fun and festive touch!

Fit It to Your Goals

• For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream in place of sour cream.
• To reduce sugar, consider using a sugar substitute that measures 1:1 with granulated sugar.
• For a nut-free option, omit the almond extract and stick to vanilla.
• Adjust the frosting color to match any occasion—pastels for spring, vibrant colors for birthday parties!

Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary

These Gluten Free Lofthouse Cookies are incredibly versatile! You can change up the flavors of the frosting or even add different extracts to the cookie dough. A hint of lemon zest can give a refreshing twist. Remember, the key to achieving that soft texture is not to overbake them. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

• If you can’t find gluten-free flour, you can make your own blend using a mix of rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour.
• When frosting, feel free to get creative with decorations—crushed candies, edible glitter, or themed sprinkles can elevate your cookies for any occasion!

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and frost as desired!

Reader Q&A

Can I use a different brand of gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can use other brands of gluten-free flour, but the results may vary. King Arthur’s Measure for Measure flour is specifically designed for baking and tends to yield the best results.

How can I make these cookies vegan?

To make them vegan, substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of the egg, and replace the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can substitute it with plain yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

Can I decorate these cookies for special occasions?

Absolutely! Use colored frosting and themed sprinkles to match the occasion—think red and green for Christmas or pastel colors for spring celebrations!

Time to Try It

Now that you have the ultimate recipe for Gluten Free Lofthouse Cookies, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! These cookies are not only a delightful treat but also a testament to how gluten-free baking can be just as delicious and fun. Enjoy every bite of these soft, frosted wonders, and share them with friends and family to spread the joy. Happy baking!