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Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies

Reminiscent of the beloved store-bought Lofthouse cookies, these sugar cookies are irresistibly soft and thick, topped with a rich homemade buttercream. Perfect for festive trays or casual indulgence, this recipe yields either 9 generously sized cookies or approximately 30 petite versions.
Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients
  

For the Cookies:

  • 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened

For the Buttercream Frosting:

  • ¼ teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened

For Decorating (optional):

  • Sprinkles
  • Food coloring

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar. Cream together on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture appears light and fluffy. While maintaining the same speed, incorporate the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and corn syrup.
  • Add baking powder, salt, and flour gradually, mixing on low speed and incorporating the flour half a cup at a time. The dough may initially seem crumbly but will form a cohesive mass akin to thick playdough when fully mixed.
  • For larger cookies, portion dough into 3-tablespoon scoops, roll into balls, and slightly flatten into ½-inch discs. Bake for 11-12 minutes, or until the tops no longer appear glossy. For mini cookies, use 1-tablespoon scoops and press down lightly before baking for 8-9 minutes. Avoid overbaking to preserve their soft texture. Let the cookies cool on the hot tray for 10 minutes post-baking, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • To prepare the frosting, blend the softened butter with vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt in a large bowl on medium speed until cohesive. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar at medium-low speed. Once fully integrated, increase to high speed and beat for 2-3 minutes until light and airy. If needed, add 1-2 teaspoons of milk to achieve a smoother consistency.
  • Add food coloring if desired, then apply the frosting to cooled cookies using a knife or piping bag. Finish with sprinkles.

Notes

Almond Extract: This ingredient enhances the sugar cookie flavor. While optional, omitting it will slightly alter the traditional taste.
Light Corn Syrup: Helps retain moisture and softness. Can be replaced with honey or omitted, though its inclusion is recommended for optimal texture.