Soft & Fluffy Sourdough Lofthouse Cookies (Bakery-Style Recipe)
Sourdough lofthouse cookies are a nostalgic twist on the classic grocery-store sugar cookies, but even better. These cookies are pillowy soft, lightly tangy from sourdough starter, and topped with creamy pastel buttercream frosting.
Traditional Lofthouse cookies are known for their ultra-soft texture, cake-like crumb, and colorful icing. By adding sourdough discard, you get deeper flavor, improved texture, and easier digestion while keeping that signature melt-in-your-mouth softness.
Ingredients
For the Cookies (Makes 18–20 cookies)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup sourdough discard (unfed starter)
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Frosting
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
- Sprinkles (optional)
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Step 1 – Make the Cookie Dough
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
- Add egg, sourdough discard, sour cream, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients. Mix gently until combined.
- Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Step 2 – Roll & Cut the Cookies
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll chilled dough to about ½ inch thickness.
- Cut into round shapes using a cookie cutter.
Step 3 – Bake
- Place cookies 2 inches apart on baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, just until edges are set (do not overbake).
- Let cookies cool completely before frosting.
Step 4 – Make the Frosting
- Beat butter until creamy.
- Slowly add powdered sugar.
- Add milk and vanilla, and beat until fluffy.
- Add food coloring if desired.
Step 5 – Decorate
- Spread frosting generously over cooled cookies.
- Add sprinkles on top if you like.
- Let frosting set for 20–30 minutes before storing.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Chilling Time | 60 minutes |
| Bake Time | 10–12 minutes |
| Total Time | About 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Serving Size | 1 cookie |
Tips & Variations
- For extra softness, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the dough.
- If dough is sticky, dust lightly with flour while rolling.
- Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a bakery-style flavor.
- Make chocolate sourdough lofthouse cookies by adding ¼ cup cocoa powder.
- Use pastel frosting for Easter or bright colors for birthdays.
Nutrition Info (Per Cookie – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
Values may vary based on frosting amount and toppings.
Healthy Alternatives
Lower Sugar Version
- Replace sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia blend.
Gluten-Free Option
- Use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour.
Dairy-Free / Vegan
- Use vegan butter and plant-based yogurt.
- Replace milk in frosting with almond or oat milk.
Keto-Friendly Version
- Use almond flour instead of wheat flour.
- Sweeten with erythritol or monk fruit.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sourdough lofthouse cookies with hot tea, coffee, or a cold glass of milk. They are perfect for parties, picnics, holidays, and gift boxes.
This recipe combines classic comfort with modern sourdough baking, giving you soft, tender cookies that taste even better than store-bought. Once you try them, you will never go back to regular sugar cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?
Yes, you can use either active starter or discard. Both work well.
How long do these cookies last?
They stay fresh for 3–4 days in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I freeze sourdough lofthouse cookies?
Yes. Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months. Frost after thawing.
Why do my cookies spread too much?
Your dough may need longer chilling time. Chill at least 1 hour.
Can I make them without frosting?
Yes, they are delicious plain or with a light glaze instead of buttercream.
