Easy Sugar Cookie Frosting (Print View)
Creamy, sweet frosting perfect for decorating sugar cookies with a soft glossy finish
# Ingredient List:
→ Base Frosting
01 - 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
02 - 2-3 tablespoons milk (whole or 2%)
03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
04 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
05 - Pinch of salt
→ Optional Add-ins
06 - Food coloring (gel or liquid), as desired
07 - 1/2 teaspoon almond extract, for flavor variation
# How to Make:
01 - Beat powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt in a medium mixing bowl until mixture is well combined and crumbly.
02 - Add milk 1 tablespoon at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition, until frosting reaches smooth, spreadable consistency. Use less milk for piping stiffness or more milk for glazing consistency.
03 - Stir in almond extract and food coloring drops until color distributes evenly throughout frosting.
04 - Frost cooled sugar cookies immediately. Let cookies rest at room temperature for at least 1 hour to allow frosting surface to set completely.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The texture is incredibly forgiving and spreads like a dream without tearing delicate cookies
- You can adjust the consistency from thick piping icing to flowing glaze with just a splash more milk
02 -
- Warm cookies will melt the frosting right off so patience during the cooling phase is absolutely essential
- The frosting continues to thicken as it sits so you may need to add another teaspoon of milk if you are working slowly
03 -
- For the smoothest application use an offset spatula and warm it slightly under hot water before spreading
- Tap the frosted cookie gently against the counter after frosting to release any air bubbles for a perfectly smooth surface