Name: Gluten-Free Lofthouse Cookies: Soft, Guilt-Free Delights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Gluten-Free Flour Blend; 1/2 cup Butter (softened); 1 cup Sugar (or coconut sugar for low glycemic); 2 large Eggs; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 cups Powdered Sugar; 1/4 cup Milk (or plant-based milk); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen can instantly uplift any mood. Today, I’m excited to share my version of Gluten-Free Lofthouse Cookies, a delightful treat that’s both easy to make and low in sugar. These cookies capture the nostalgic smile of store-bought Lofthouse but offer a healthier twist without compromising on taste or texture. With their melt-in-your-mouth softness, these nut-free, customizable delights are perfect for family gatherings or a cozy evening at home. What’s even better? There’s no need for dough chilling—just mix, scoop, and bake! How do you feel about turning your kitchen into a sweet, cookie-filled haven?

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Why are these cookies a must-try?

Homemade Bliss: There’s nothing quite like the comfort of baking in your own kitchen, and these gluten-free Lofthouse cookies are the perfect choice for the occasion!

Easily Customizable: Whether it’s sprinkles or different cookie shapes, your imagination can run wild with this recipe.

Quick and Simple: With no dough chilling required, you can enjoy these sweet treats in no time—ideal for busy families or spontaneous dessert cravings.

Guilt-Free Indulgence: Lower in sugar but high in flavor, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt.

These cookies are made to brighten your day and can be paired with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea for the ultimate experience. Plus, if you love baking other low-sugar treats, check out my Lemon Sugar Cookies for another delightful recipe!

Gluten-Free Lofthouse Cookies Ingredients

Get ready to bake scrumptious cookies!

For the Cookie Dough
Gluten-Free Flour Blend – Provides the perfect structure, creating that signature soft texture.
Butter – Adds rich flavor and moisture; for a vegan twist, substitute with dairy-free butter.
Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; reduce the amount for a guilt-free treat or try coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
Eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients, ensuring the cookies stay soft and chewy.
Baking Powder – A key leavening agent that helps the cookies rise beautifully.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors perfectly.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses the cookies with warm, sweet depth.

For the Icing

Powdered Sugar – Creates a sweet topping; you can adjust the amount for desired sweetness.
Milk – Helps achieve the perfect icing consistency; you can use any milk of your choice, including plant-based.
Vanilla Extract – A hint adds an extra flavor punch to your icing.

These gluten-free Lofthouse cookies are not just a treat; they’re a delightful baking experience waiting to happen! Enjoy crafting and tweaking these recipes with your loved ones.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gluten-Free Lofthouse Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the cookies don’t stick. This preparation sets the stage for perfectly baked gluten-free Lofthouse cookies that will puff up nicely in the oven.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter and sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream them together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This fluffy blend will add rich flavor and ensure a tender cookie texture.

Step 3: Mix in Eggs and Vanilla
Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, until everything is well incorporated. Continue mixing for another minute, ensuring your dough is smooth and creamy. This step adds cohesiveness and the warm, comforting vanilla flavor essential for your gluten-free Lofthouse cookies.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually incorporate the gluten-free flour blend, baking powder, and salt into the wet ingredients. Use a spatula to gently fold the dry ingredients into the mixture without overmixing. The dough should form a soft, slightly sticky consistency, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture you desire.

Step 5: Scoop the Dough
With a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the cookie dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Ensure to leave space between each scoop, as the gluten-free Lofthouse cookies will spread slightly as they bake. You should have about 12 evenly spaced mounds.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies, and look for lightly golden edges and a set center. The cookies should remain soft and puffy, embodying the classic Lofthouse style as they bake to perfection.

Step 7: Cooling Time
Once baked, carefully remove the gluten-free Lofthouse cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period is crucial for firming them up, preparing them for a delightful icing, if desired.

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Gluten-Free Lofthouse Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these fun and tasty twists!

Nut-Free: Made with simple ingredients, these cookies don’t contain any nuts, making them a safe treat for allergy concerns.
Vegan: Substitute dairy butter with plant-based butter and eggs with flax eggs to create a delicious vegan version!
Low-Sugar: Reduce the sugar content even more by using a sugar alternative like erythritol for a guilt-free treat.
Flavored Extracts: Try using almond or lemon extract instead of vanilla for a unique flavor profile that adds warmth and zest.
Chocolate Chips: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a delightful surprise in every bite, adding sweetness and texture.
Decorative Icing: Use colorful icing or sprinkles to make these cookies even more festive for special occasions or family gatherings.
Themed Shapes: Get imaginative with cookie cutters to create seasonal or holiday-themed shapes, making them a hit for any celebration.
Citrus Zest: Grate a bit of lemon or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing citrusy aroma and flavor that elevates the cookies.

These gluten-free Lofthouse cookies are a canvas for your culinary creativity. If you’re looking for more delicious cookie ideas, don’t miss out on my Kitchen Sink Cookies for a variety-packed treat!

Make Ahead Options

These gluten-free Lofthouse cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts who want to enjoy homemade treats even on the busiest days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and then refrigerating it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto your baking sheet and let it sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature before baking. If you want to make the cookies even further in advance, you can bake them and freeze the cookies for up to 1 month. Just pop them in the oven for a few minutes to warm them up before serving, ensuring they taste just as delicious as fresh-baked! This method saves time while delivering delightful, homemade goodness that your family will love.

What to Serve with Gluten-Free Lofthouse Cookies

The experience of enjoying soft, sweet cookies can be elevated with these delightful pairings that bring a whole meal together.

Creamy Milk: A classic accompaniment that balances sweetness and enhances the comforting flavors of the cookies, perfect for dunking.
Warm Cup of Tea: The gentle aroma of tea complements the cookies’ vanilla essence, creating a cozy moment to savor with each bite.
Fresh Berries: Add a burst of freshness! Juicy strawberries or blueberries contrast beautifully with the sweet, buttery cookies while offering a delightful pop of color.
Ice Cream Scoop: A cold, creamy scoop adds indulgence and transforms these cookies into a decadent dessert. Try pairing with vanilla or lemon for a refreshing twist.
Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your treats by drizzling melted chocolate on top, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal, making them even more irresistible!
Festive Sprinkles: When serving for a celebration, add colorful sprinkles on top of the icing for a festive touch, enticing even the pickiest eaters.

Each of these pairings creates an inviting atmosphere, perfect for sharing and enjoying homemade treats with loved ones.

Expert Tips for Gluten-Free Lofthouse Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for smoother mixing. Cold butter can lead to a lumpy, uneven dough.
Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing can result in a denser texture instead of the light, fluffy bite you’re aiming for.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies while they bake. Remove them when the edges are lightly golden and the centers are still soft for the best melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Customizable Icing: Feel free to play around with your icing! You can add food coloring or sprinkle a dash of zest for a unique twist to your icing on gluten-free Lofthouse cookies.
Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool completely before icing. This prevents the icing from melting and ensures a beautiful finish on your treats.

Enjoy baking these delightful cookies!

How to Store and Freeze Gluten-Free Lofthouse Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft texture and flavor.

Fridge: For extended freshness, place cookies in the fridge—wrapped or in an airtight container—for up to 10 days. This helps preserve their delightful softness.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can last up to 1 month.

Reheating: Thaw frozen gluten-free Lofthouse cookies at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds until warmed. Enjoy them fresh for the best taste!

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Gluten-Free Lofthouse Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of gluten-free flour blend should I use?
Absolutely! You can use a pre-made gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum or make your own using equal parts of rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour. This blend will give your cookies the right texture and stability, ensuring they hold up beautifully when baked.

How should I store the cookies after baking?
To keep those gluten-free Lofthouse cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If longer storage is needed, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 10 days while maintaining their delicious freshness!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze your gluten-free Lofthouse cookies, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, keeping them sealed tightly. They can last up to 1 month. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find that your dough is too sticky to handle, it might be due to the humidity or the type of gluten-free flour you used. Don’t worry! You can simply add a little more gluten-free flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is manageable. Make sure to mix gently to avoid overworking the dough.

Is this recipe safe for people with nut allergies?
Absolutely! This gluten-free Lofthouse cookie recipe is nut-free, making it a safe option for those with nut allergies. Just ensure that any other ingredients or substitute products you use, like butter or milk, are also labeled nut-free. Happy baking!