Sugar Cookie Icing Recipe
Introduction
This simple sugar cookie icing recipe creates a smooth, glossy finish that’s perfect for decorating your favorite cookies. With just a few basic ingredients, you can make vibrant, flavorful icing that sets beautifully.
Ingredients
- 2½ cups powdered sugar
- 1½ tablespoons light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon clear vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk (add up to 3 tablespoons as needed)
- Food coloring (gel is best)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, use a hand mixer to beat together the powdered sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of milk until the mixture is smooth.
- Step 2: Add additional milk a few drops at a time until you reach your desired icing consistency.
- Step 3: Stir in food coloring until the icing reaches your preferred color.
- Step 4: Use the icing to decorate your cookies, then allow it to set completely before serving or storing.
Tips & Variations
- Use gel food coloring to achieve vibrant colors without thinning the icing.
- If the icing becomes too runny, add a little more powdered sugar to thicken it.
- For extra flavor, try adding a few drops of almond or lemon extract instead of vanilla.
Storage
Store any leftover icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Before using again, stir well and adjust consistency with a little milk if needed. Decorated cookies are best enjoyed once the icing has fully set.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of clear vanilla?
Yes, but keep in mind that regular vanilla may slightly darken the icing’s color, which might affect the brightness of your decorations.
How long does it take for the icing to set?
Icing typically sets within 2 to 4 hours at room temperature, depending on thickness and humidity. For best results, allow cookies to dry overnight.
PrintSugar Cookie Icing Recipe
This classic sugar cookie icing recipe creates a smooth, glossy finish perfect for decorating sugar cookies. Made with powdered sugar, light corn syrup, vanilla extract, and milk, this icing is easy to prepare and can be tinted with gel food coloring for vibrant designs. Ideal for holiday treats, birthday parties, or any occasion where beautifully decorated cookies are desired.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Enough icing to decorate approximately 2 dozen standard sugar cookies
- Category: Dessert Topping
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2½ cups powdered sugar
- 1½ tablespoons light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon clear vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk (add up to 3 tablespoons as needed)
- Gel food coloring (as desired)
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: Using a hand mixer, combine powdered sugar, light corn syrup, clear vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of milk in a small bowl. Beat the mixture until it is smooth and free of lumps.
- Adjust Consistency: Gradually add the remaining milk a few drops at a time, mixing continuously until the icing reaches your preferred consistency—smooth enough for spreading or piping without being too runny.
- Color the Icing: Stir in gel food coloring a little at a time until you achieve the desired shade. Gel colors provide vibrant hues without thinning the icing.
- Decorate Cookies: Use the prepared icing to decorate sugar cookies as desired. Allow the iced cookies to sit at room temperature until the icing sets and hardens, which typically takes several hours.
Notes
- Use clear vanilla extract to avoid discoloring the icing.
- Gel food coloring is preferred to maintain icing consistency and achieve vivid colors.
- Adjust the milk quantity carefully to avoid making the icing too thin.
- Allow decorated cookies to set completely for best presentation and stability.
- This icing is not designed to be stored for long periods once mixed, so prepare fresh batches as needed.
Keywords: sugar cookie icing, cookie glaze, powdered sugar icing, cookie decorating, easy icing recipe, no-cook icing
