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Sugar Cookie Icing Recipe

4.7 from 146 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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