Description
A simple, reliable, and creamy sugar cookie frosting that is quick to make and perfect for beginners. This frosting is smooth, spreadable, and holds its shape without cracking or sliding off cookies.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup (115 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 to 4 cups (360 to 480 grams) powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 to 3 tablespoons (30 to 45 ml) whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Soften the butter by letting it sit at room temperature until soft but not melted (about 30 minutes).
- Sift 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar into a bowl to prevent clumps.
- Beat the softened butter on medium speed for about 1-2 minutes until creamy and pale.
- With the mixer on low, slowly add the sifted powdered sugar, about a half cup at a time.
- Add 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons (30 ml) milk or half-and-half. Beat on medium speed until smooth and fluffy. Add more milk 1 teaspoon at a time if frosting is too thick.
- Check consistency: frosting should be spreadable but firm enough to hold shape. Add more powdered sugar if too thin, or more milk if too thick.
- Add a pinch of salt and mix just until combined.
- Give the frosting a final whip on high speed for 30 seconds to achieve a silky, light texture.
- Use immediately by spreading over cooled sugar cookies or piping with a piping bag. Refrigerate frosted cookies for 10 minutes for a glossy finish if desired.
Notes
Use softened butter, not melted, to avoid greasy frosting. Sift powdered sugar to prevent grainy texture. Add liquids slowly to control consistency. Chill frosting if kitchen is warm to prevent runniness. For vegan version, use vegan butter and plant-based milk. Add extra powdered sugar for thicker consistency suitable for piping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (15 gra
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 10
- Fat: 3.5
Keywords: sugar cookie frosting, easy frosting recipe, beginner frosting, cookie frosting, simple frosting, creamy frosting