easy sugar cookie frosting
Looking for sugar cookie frosting that hardens perfectly and looks like the smooth frosting from bakery cookies? This is that recipe. It sets firm, spreads easily, and stays slightly soft underneath. No royal icing. No egg whites. Just simple pantry ingredients and five minutes of prep.
If you bake holiday cookies, cut-out cookies, or decorated sugar cookies, save this recipe.
Table of Contents
Why This Sugar Cookie Icing Works
Unlike traditional royal icing, this frosting:
- Hardens without becoming rock solid
- Has a smooth, glossy finish
- Tastes buttery and balanced (not overly sweet)
- Is beginner-friendly
- Takes only 5 minutes to make
The key ingredient that makes it set? Melted butter.
Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 to 3 tablespoons whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Gel food coloring (optional)
How to Make Sugar Cookie Icing That Sets
Step 1: Sift the Powdered Sugar
Sifting removes lumps and ensures a smooth, bakery-style finish.
Step 2: Add Melted Butter
Make sure the butter is melted but not hot. Stir until combined.
Step 3: Add Milk Gradually
Add milk one tablespoon at a time until the icing reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Step 4: Add Flavor and Color
Mix in vanilla extract if using. Add gel food coloring for vibrant shades without thinning the icing.
Step 5: Work Quickly
This icing begins setting within 5 minutes. Add sprinkles immediately after spreading.
How Long Does This Icing Take to Harden?
- Surface sets in about 5 minutes
- Fully firm in 20 to 30 minutes
- Safe to stack once completely set
Tips for Perfect Results
- Let cookies cool completely before icing
- Use gel food coloring instead of liquid
- If icing thickens too quickly, add a few drops of milk
- Do not refrigerate iced cookies (can cause condensation)
Best Occasions for This Icing
- Christmas sugar cookies
- Valentine’s Day cookies
- Easter cut-out cookies
- Birthday party cookies
- Ramadan and Eid dessert platters
Check out some of our other favorite cookie recipes:
If you enjoyed this sugar cookie frosting, you’ll definitely want to pair it with some of our most popular cookie recipes. Try these next:
Our soft and vibrant Red Velvet Cookies Recipe, perfect for holidays and special occasions.
The rich and indulgent Chewy Dubai Chocolate Cookie Recipe, loaded with deep chocolate flavor and an irresistible texture.
These recipes are perfect for experimenting with this sugar cookie frosting or enjoying on their own.
Conclusion
This sugar cookie icing is smooth, easy to make, and sets perfectly without royal icing. With just a few simple ingredients, you get bakery-style results every time. Save this recipe for beautifully frosted cookies that look as good as they taste.
Sugar Cookie Frosting That Hardens
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Fine mesh sieve
- Whisk
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 2-3 tbsp whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Gel food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Sift the powdered sugar into a medium mixing bowl to remove lumps.
- Add the melted butter and whisk until combined.
- Add milk one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Stir in vanilla extract if using. Add gel food coloring and mix until evenly colored.
- Spread over completely cooled sugar cookies and add sprinkles immediately. Allow frosting to set for 20–30 minutes before stacking.
Notes
- Frosting begins to set within 5 minutes. Work quickly.
- If frosting thickens too fast, add a few drops of milk.
- Do not refrigerate iced cookies to prevent condensation.
- Best used on completely cooled cookies.
