Copycat Lofthouse Cookies Will Make You So Nostalgic for Childhood
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
When I was growing up in Texas, these cookies were a fixture at every classroom birthday, end-of-year celebration, and back-to-school swim party. Because my mom would never buy them for me, I only ever had them on those occasions, so I love the idea of making them at home for myself now. This copycat recipe tastes just like the real deal and will help you recreate the iconic cookies at home.
What Makes These Lofthouse Cookies So Soft?
Cornstarch is used in this recipe to deliver cookies with a super-soft and tender crumb. Some recipes call for cake flour to achieve this, but I usually have all-purpose on hand, so I find it easier to just mix a bit of cornstarch in with my all-purpose flour. I tested it both ways and the difference is negligible in my opinion!
Do You Have to Use Almond Extract in These Cookies?
You don’t have to use almond extract — especially if you’re allergic to nuts — but the almond extract really helps to mimic the artificial flavoring found in store-bought Lofthouse cookies. If you want to skip it, you can just bump up the vanilla extract by another 1/4 teaspoon.
Which Food Coloring Is Best for the Frosting?
Gel food coloring typically goes a lot further — while using a lot less — but either type will get the job done, so use whatever you’ve got. You can also skip the food coloring all together if it’s a hassle; the cookies will taste exactly the same.
