Lofthouse-Style Soft Peanut Butter Chip Sugar Cookies with Peanut Butter Frosting

There’s something truly magical about Lofthouse-style cookies, with their soft, pillowy texture and a generous layer of frosting. When you combine that with the rich flavor of peanut butter and the delightful crunch of peanut butter chips, you’ve got a treat that’s hard to resist. These Lofthouse-Style Soft Peanut Butter Chip Sugar Cookies with Peanut Butter Frosting are the perfect indulgence for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering.

Why I Love This Recipe

What I adore about this recipe is the balance of flavors and textures. The cookies are ultra-soft and buttery, thanks to the combination of cake flour and cornstarch, which creates that signature Lofthouse texture. The addition of creamy peanut butter chips brings a delightful pop of flavor that complements the sweetness of the cookie base. And let’s not forget the peanut butter frosting—it’s creamy, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying! Each bite is a harmonious blend of peanut butter goodness that will leave you reaching for another cookie.

Ingredient List

• 1 large egg
• 1 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups cake flour (no substitutions; I used Swans Down)
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt (optional and to taste)
• 1 (10-ounce) bag Reese’s Peanut Butter Chips
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter (use Jif, Skippy, etc.; avoid natural peanut butter)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (half of 1 stick), softened
• 1 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar
• Pinch of salt (optional and to taste)
• Splash of cream or milk, if needed to achieve proper consistency (I used about 1 ½ tablespoons cream)
• Chocolate sprinkles, optional for garnishing

Equipment at a Glance

• Mixing bowls for combining ingredients
• Electric mixer for beating the butter and sugars
• Baking sheets lined with parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon for portioning dough
• Cooling rack for cooling cookies
• Spatula for frosting cookies

Step-by-Step: Lofthouse-Style Soft Peanut Butter Chip Sugar Cookies with Peanut Butter Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect soft texture.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Peanut Butter Chips

Gently fold in the Reese’s Peanut Butter Chips with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Portion and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each cookie as they will spread slightly during baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will look slightly underbaked but will firm up as they cool.

Step 7: Cool Cookies

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and beat until well incorporated. If the frosting is too thick, add a splash of cream or milk until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 9: Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cooled, use a spatula to generously spread the peanut butter frosting on top of each cookie. If desired, sprinkle chocolate sprinkles on top for an extra touch of sweetness.

In-Season Flavor Ideas

• For a fall twist, add a pinch of cinnamon to the cookie dough.
• In winter, try adding crushed peppermint candies to the frosting for a festive flavor.
• In the spring, mix in some chopped nuts for added crunch.
• During summer, use a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for a decadent finish.

If You’re Curious

If you’re wondering about the origin of Lofthouse cookies, they are a classic American treat known for their soft texture and sweet frosting. The addition of peanut butter brings a new level of flavor to this beloved dessert. These cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying with a cup of coffee or milk.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

These cookies are freezer-friendly! You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls for up to three months. Just scoop them onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. You can also freeze the frosted cookies for up to two months. Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Lofthouse-Style Soft Peanut Butter Chip Sugar Cookies with Peanut Butter Frosting FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour instead of cake flour?

For this recipe, it’s best to stick with cake flour to achieve the soft, tender texture characteristic of Lofthouse cookies. Substituting all-purpose flour may result in a denser cookie.

How can I make the frosting chocolate-flavored?

To create chocolate peanut butter frosting, simply add a few tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the frosting mixture. Adjust the amount of confectioners’ sugar accordingly to maintain the right consistency.

What if I want to make these cookies without peanut butter chips?

You can absolutely leave out the peanut butter chips! Consider adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts for a different flavor profile.

How should I store the cookies after baking?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you have frosted cookies, it’s best to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Similar Recipes

• Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Soft Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Frosting
• Peanut Butter Blossoms
• Oatmeal Peanut Butter Cookies

Make It Tonight

If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s sure to impress, these Lofthouse-Style Soft Peanut Butter Chip Sugar Cookies with Peanut Butter Frosting are the perfect choice. With their soft texture and rich peanut butter flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get baking! You won’t be disappointed with the delightful results. Enjoy every delicious bite!