The Best Valentine’s Day Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe

Looking for the perfect sweet treat to celebrate love this February? Nothing says “I care” quite like homemade Frosted Sugar Cookies decorated with festive Valentine’s Day colors and designs. These soft, pillowy cookies topped with creamy frosting rival even the beloved Lofthouse cookies from Walmart, but with that special homemade touch your loved ones will appreciate. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a classroom party, these Frosted Sugar Cookies are guaranteed to make hearts flutter!

Ingredients List

For the Cookies:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional but enhances flavor)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (creates that Lofthouse cookie softness)

For the Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pink and red food coloring
• Valentine’s sprinkles or decorations

Timing

Prep Time: 30 minutes (includes dough chilling)
Bake Time: 10-12 minutes
Decorating Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (saves 15 minutes compared to traditional rolled sugar cookies)

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes). This stage is crucial for achieving that perfect texture—don’t rush it! Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla and almond extracts, mixing well after each addition.

Step 2: Complete the Cookie Dough

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in thirds, alternating with sour cream. The sour cream is the secret ingredient that makes these cookies rival those famous Walmart sugar cookies with icing! Mix until just combined—overmixing will make tough cookies. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop, portion dough into 2-tablespoon balls. Roll gently, then slightly flatten with your palm for that classic Lofthouse cookie shape. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set but centers still look soft.

Step 4: Create the Frosting

While cookies cool completely, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then heavy cream and vanilla extract until smooth and spreadable. Divide frosting and tint with food coloring for Valentine’s theme. Aim for a consistency similar to the iconic Lofthouse sugar cookie recipe frosting—spreadable but not runny.

Step 5: Decorate

Once cookies are completely cool, spread a generous layer of frosting on each cookie. Add sprinkles immediately before frosting sets. For extra Valentine’s charm, create ombré effects with different shades of pink and red.

Nutritional Information

Per Cookie (approximate):

• Calories: 230
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 22g

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Healthier Alternatives

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend
• Reduced Sugar: Cut sugar to 1 cup in cookies and use 2 cups powdered sugar in frosting
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and coconut cream instead of heavy cream
• Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based sour cream alternative

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Frosted Sugar Cookies on a tiered platter with fresh strawberries for a Valentine’s Day dessert table. Pair with hot chocolate topped with heart-shaped marshmallows or a glass of champagne for adults. Create cookie sandwiches by placing a thin layer of raspberry jam between two cookies for an elegant twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the chilling time (results in flat cookies that spread too much)
• Overbaking (these should remain soft like authentic Lofthouse cookies)
• Frosting warm cookies (causes melting and runny decoration)
• Using cold ingredients (butter and eggs should be room temperature)

Storing Tips

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Place wax paper between layers to protect the frosting. Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months—perfect for advance Valentine’s Day preparation! Thaw at room temperature before frosting.

Conclusion

These Valentine’s Day Frosted Sugar Cookies deliver all the charm and deliciousness of store-bought favorites with the special touch that only homemade treats provide. The soft, cake-like texture paired with sweet, creamy frosting makes them irresistible for your Valentine’s celebration. Give them a try this year and watch the smiles appear!

FAQs

• Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
  Yes! Bake the cookies up to 3 days in advance and store in an airtight container. Frost them the day of serving for best results.
• Why do my sugar cookies get hard after baking?
  Overbaking is usually the culprit. Remove from the oven when edges are set but centers still look slightly underdone for that soft Lofthouse cookie texture.
• Can I use regular Walmart sugar cookies and just make the homemade frosting?
  Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using pre-made sugar cookies from Walmart and adding homemade frosting is a great shortcut.
• How can I transport these cookies without ruining the frosting?
  Allow frosting to set completely (about 2 hours), then place cookies in a single layer in a container. For stacking, place parchment paper between layers.