Easy Sugar Cookie Frosting

The first time I made this frosting, I was rushing to finish a batch of Christmas cookies for a last minute party. My kitchen was chaos, but when I mixed these simple ingredients together, something magical happened. That glossy white finish dried perfectly, and my friends kept asking where I bought the professionally decorated cookies.

Last spring, I taught my niece how to decorate her first batch of Easter cookies with this frosting. She had blue food coloring everywhere, including somehow on the cat, but we ended up with the most charming imperfectly perfect cookies. Now she asks every holiday if were making the special frosting again.

Ingredients

• 2 cups powdered sugar: Sifting first prevents lumps that make your frosting look grainy and uneven
• 2-3 tablespoons whole milk: Whole milk creates a creamier texture than skim, and adding it slowly gives you complete control over consistency
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature so it incorporates smoothly without leaving tiny butter flecks in your frosting
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Pure vanilla makes all the difference here since the flavor profile is so simple and clean
• Pinch of salt: Just enough to balance the sweetness without making it taste salty

Instructions

Mix the dry base:

Beat together powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla, and salt until combined and crumbly, about one minute on low speed

Add milk gradually:

Pour in one tablespoon of milk at a time, beating after each addition until smooth, using less for piping consistency and more for glazing

Customize if desired:

Stir in almond extract or food coloring gel until fully incorporated, remembering that a little goes a long way with both

Frost and set:

Spread or pipe onto completely cooled cookies and let them sit at room temperature for one hour until the frosting sets to a soft dry finish

Save

This frosting became my go to after a failed attempt at royal decoration left me with rock hard cookies that no one could eat. Now I bring these soft frosted cookies to every gathering, and they disappear faster than anything else on the dessert table.

Making It Dairy Free

Ive tested this with both vegan butter sticks and almond milk, and honestly, most people cannot tell the difference. The texture stays creamy and the set time remains nearly identical, making this an inclusive recipe everyone can enjoy.

Flavor Variations

Lemon zest in spring creates the brightest sunshine flavor, while a splash of peppermint extract transforms this into a winter holiday essential. I keep a small jar of each flavored frosting in my fridge during their respective seasons.

Storage Solutions

Unused frosting keeps beautifully in an airtight container for up to one week. When you are ready to use it again, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick stir before decorating.

• Separate frosting into small bowls before coloring so you can make multiple shades from one batch
• Always taste a tiny bit before frosting all your cookies in case the balance needs adjusting
• Cover frosted cookies only after they have fully set to prevent smudging or sticking

Save

There is something deeply satisfying about turning a handful of pantry staples into something that makes people smile. Hope these cookies bring a little joy to your kitchen too.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How long does the frosting take to set?

Allow frosted cookies to sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour. The topping will dry to a soft, glossy finish that holds its shape beautifully.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives. Non-dairy butter and your favorite milk work well for a vegan version.

→ What consistency should I use for piping?

Use less milk (about 2 tablespoons total) for a thicker consistency ideal for piping. Add more milk if you prefer a thinner glaze that spreads easily.

→ How should I store leftover frosting?

Keep unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature and stir before using again.

→ Can I add different flavors?

Absolutely. Try almond extract for nutty notes, or mix in citrus zest like lemon or orange for a bright, refreshing twist. Gel food coloring creates vibrant shades without thinning the mixture.