This sugar cookie frosting is quick to make, requires simple pantry ingredients, and has the perfect texture—rich and creamy when applied, yet it sets up just enough for decorated cookies to be handled or packaged. It’s easy to tint with food coloring and can be flavored to your liking with extracts like vanilla or almond. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or a special occasion, this frosting turns every cookie into a work of art.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Powdered sugar
Unsalted butter (softened)
Milk or heavy cream
Vanilla extract (or almond extract)
Salt (just a pinch)
Food coloring (optional)
Sprinkles or colored sugar (optional for decorating)
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
Add vanilla extract, salt, and 1–2 tablespoons of milk or cream. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Adjust the consistency: add more milk for a thinner frosting or more powdered sugar for a thicker one.
If desired, divide the frosting into bowls and add food coloring to each. Mix until evenly colored.
Spread onto cooled sugar cookies using a knife or spatula, or transfer to a piping bag for detailed designs.
Immediately add sprinkles or decorations before the frosting begins to set.
Allow the frosted cookies to rest for 1–2 hours to set (longer if stacking or packaging).
Servings and timing
This recipe yields enough frosting for about 24 medium-sized cookies and takes approximately 10–15 minutes to prepare.
Variations
Almond Sugar Cookie Frosting: Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a bakery-style flavor.
Lemon Frosting: Add fresh lemon juice and zest for a citrus twist.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Replace part of the butter with softened cream cheese for a tangy version.
Colorful Frosting: Divide the frosting and tint with gel food coloring for vibrant holiday designs.
Glittery Finish: Add edible glitter or luster dust for a shimmering effect.
Storage/Reheating
Store unused frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Let it come to room temperature and re-whip before using. Frosted cookies can be stored at room temperature in a single layer or stacked with parchment paper in between once the frosting has fully set.
FAQs
Does this frosting harden completely?
It sets to a soft crust that allows stacking, but it doesn’t dry rock-hard like royal icing.
Can I pipe with this frosting?
Yes, it works well for simple piping designs if the consistency is thick enough.
How long does it take to set?
Frosting begins to set in about 1 hour and fully sets in 3–4 hours, depending on humidity.
Can I freeze the frosting?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw and re-whip before using.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter gives the best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used if needed.
What type of food coloring works best?
Gel food coloring is ideal because it gives vibrant color without thinning the frosting.
How do I make the frosting smoother?
Beat it well with a mixer and adjust the consistency with a little milk if needed.
Can I use water instead of milk?
Milk or cream gives a richer flavor and smoother texture, but water can be used in a pinch.
Can I flavor the frosting differently?
Yes, try peppermint, maple, or coconut extract for a fun twist.
How far in advance can I frost cookies?
Frosted cookies can be made 1–2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Sugar cookie frosting is a simple yet essential recipe for creating beautifully decorated cookies with soft, sweet flavor and a smooth finish. Whether you’re frosting cookies for the holidays, birthdays, or just because, this frosting will help bring your baked creations to life. Customize it with colors and flavors to suit any occasion—and enjoy the decorating fun along the way.
Sugar cookie frosting is a creamy, smooth, and easy-to-make icing perfect for decorating cut-out cookies. It sets with a soft finish, making it ideal for stacking, gifting, or festive presentations.
Ingredients
3 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
1–2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract)
Pinch of salt
Food coloring (optional)
Sprinkles or colored sugar (optional, for decorating)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
Add vanilla extract, salt, and 1–2 tablespoons of milk or cream. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Adjust the consistency by adding more milk for a thinner frosting or more powdered sugar for a thicker one.
If desired, divide the frosting into bowls and add food coloring to each. Mix until evenly colored.
Spread onto cooled sugar cookies using a knife or spatula, or transfer to a piping bag for detailed designs.
Immediately add sprinkles or decorations before the frosting begins to set.
Allow the frosted cookies to rest for 1–2 hours to set before stacking or packaging.
Notes
Frosting sets to a soft crust, perfect for stacking but not rock hard like royal icing.Gel food coloring is best for vibrant colors without thinning the frosting.Flavor with almond, lemon, peppermint, or coconut extract for variation.Store leftover frosting in the fridge for up to 1 week; re-whip before use.Frosted cookies can be stored at room temperature once frosting is set.
