1-First Step: Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking. Soften 1/2 cup butter at room temperature for 30 minutes.

2-Second Step: In a large bowl, cream together 1/2 cup softened butter and 1 cup sugar using a hand mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes. The mixture should turn light and fluffy, trapping air for soft cookies.

3-Third Step: Beat in 1 egg, 1/2 cup sour cream, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth, about 1 minute. Scrape down the bowl sides to incorporate everything fully. This wet mix creates the moist base.

4-Fourth Step: In a separate bowl, whisk 3 cups flour, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/4 tsp salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed. Mix just until combined, avoiding overmixing to keep texture tender.

5-Fifth Step: Cover dough and chill in the fridge for 1 hour. Chilling firms it up, preventing spread and promoting those perfect thick centers like in copycat lofthouse styles.

6-Sixth Step: Scoop dough into 1-inch balls using a cookie scoop or spoon, about 24 total. Place 2 inches apart on sheets. Gently flatten slightly with your palm for even baking.

7-Seventh Step: Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. Edges should set but centers stay soft and pale. Rotate sheets halfway for uniform color. Cool on sheets 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks. Full cooling takes 30 minutes minimum.

8-Eighth Step: Beat 1/2 cup softened butter until creamy. Gradually add 4 cups powdered sugar, 1/4 cup milk, and 1 tsp vanilla, mixing on low then high for 2 minutes until fluffy.

9-Ninth Step: Fold in 10 crushed Oreos gently. Crush cookies in a zip bag with a rolling pin for control. Reserve 2 tbsp crumbs for topping.

10-Final Step: Spread or pipe frosting generously on cooled cookies. Sprinkle extra Oreo crumbs. Let set 15 minutes. Yields 24 soft cookies and cream frosted sugar cookies. Store as directed below. Pair with milk or [mini Earl Grey honey scones](https://todayrecipehub.com/mini-earl-grey-honey-scones/) for a tea time delight.