Sugar Cookie Frosting
A glossy, pillowy frosting recipe that is perfectly balanced between buttery and sweet, ideal for decorating sugar cookies for any occasion.
Ingredients
Frosting Base Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened gives a rich, creamy base for spreadable frosting.
- 3 to 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted adjust sweetness and thickness to taste.
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract the signature warm flavor that sings with sugar cookies.
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk adds silkiness, more as needed for spreadable texture.
- pinch fine sea salt balances sweetness and brightens flavor.
Optional Additions
- few drops food coloring or citrus zest for a fresh lift.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, beat the butter on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt.
- With the mixer on low, add 2 cups of powdered sugar, then increase speed to medium and beat until combined.
- Add 1 tablespoon of heavy cream or milk and beat. Continue adding cream until the frosting is spreadable, 3 to 4 tablespoons total.
- Taste and add more powdered sugar if you want it sweeter or thicker. Add food coloring as desired.
- Spread frosting onto completely cooled cookies or transfer to a piping bag.
Notes
You can make frosting a day ahead and keep it chilled; it saves time on busy baking days. For a tangy twist, swap 1 tablespoon of cream with lemon juice. This frosting is also great for decorating cakes and cupcakes.