This sugar cookie frosting is smooth, creamy, and packed with sweet vanilla flavor. It’s the perfect complement to soft, buttery sugar cookies, making them even more delicious. Whether you’re decorating holiday cookies or just looking for a simple frosting to elevate your baked treats, this recipe is easy to make and hard to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make – Only a few simple ingredients are needed.
- Perfect for decorating – Sets beautifully for intricate designs.
- Customizable – Easily tinted with food coloring for festive treats.
- Deliciously smooth – Creamy and spreadable for the perfect bite.
- Holds its shape – Great for piping and detailed decorations.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Butter (softened)
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Milk
- Food coloring (optional)
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until combined.
- Stir in vanilla extract for flavor.
- Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
- If using, mix in food coloring until evenly blended.
- Use immediately for frosting cookies, or store for later use.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes enough to frost approximately 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Almond Frosting – Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty twist.
- Citrus Flavor – Add a touch of lemon or orange zest for a fresh, zesty taste.
- Chocolate Frosting – Mix in cocoa powder for a chocolatey version.
- Dairy-Free Option – Use a plant-based butter and dairy-free milk.
- Glaze Alternative – Add extra milk to create a pourable glaze for a shinier finish.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep the frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Reheating: Let it come to room temperature before using, then stir well. If needed, add a small amount of milk to soften.
- Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and mix before use.
FAQs
How do I make my frosting thicker?
Add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before using.
Does this frosting harden?
Yes, it forms a light crust, making it ideal for stacking cookies.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but butter provides a richer flavor.
How can I make the frosting shinier?
Adding a little corn syrup gives it a glossy finish.
What food coloring works best?
Gel food coloring is preferred since it doesn’t thin out the frosting.
Can I make this frosting without a mixer?
Yes, but mixing by hand will take longer. Ensure the butter is very soft.
What’s the best way to pipe this frosting?
Use a piping bag with a fine tip for detailed designs.
Can I use this frosting on cakes?
Yes, though it’s best suited for cookies due to its consistency.
How do I store decorated cookies?
Allow the frosting to set, then store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Conclusion
This sugar cookie frosting is simple, delicious, and perfect for decorating. Whether you’re making holiday cookies or a special treat, this recipe is easy to whip up and customize. Try it with different flavors and colors to create the perfect frosted cookies for any occasion.
Print
Easy Disneyland Corn Dog Copycat
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup (enough for 24 cookies) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and smooth frosting that’s perfect for decorating sugar cookies. It sets beautifully but stays soft when you bite into it!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (more as needed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract for extra flavor)
- 1 pinch salt
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract (or almond extract), salt, and milk. Start with 2 tablespoons of milk and add more if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Continue beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- If using food coloring, divide the frosting into separate bowls and mix in a few drops of food coloring until fully combined.
- Spread or pipe onto cooled sugar cookies. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to set before stacking or storing.
Notes
- For a glossy finish: Add 1 tablespoon of corn syrup.
- For a thinner glaze-like frosting: Use more milk, about 3-4 tablespoons total.
- For extra flavor: Try adding a few drops of almond, lemon, or peppermint extract.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Re-whip before using.
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