If you’re looking for the best Sugar Cookie Frosting that’s smooth, creamy, and easy to spread, you’ve just found it! This frosting is soft enough to glide effortlessly over sugar cookies, yet firm enough to hold its shape beautifully. Whether you’re decorating holiday cookies, birthday treats, or fun sprinkle-covered desserts like the ones above, this recipe delivers vibrant color, rich flavor, and a flawless finish every time.
The best part? It comes together in just minutes with simple pantry ingredients. No complicated steps, no special equipment — just perfectly sweet, bakery-style frosting that makes your cookies irresistible!
Ingredients to Make the Best Sugar Cookie Frosting
- unsalted butter, softened
- powdered sugar
- heavy cream (or milk)
- vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Food coloring (optional)
- Sprinkles (optional)
How to Make the Best Sugar Cookie Frosting
1.Beat the butter
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
2. Add powdered sugar
Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until combined.
3. Add cream and vanilla
Pour in the vanilla extract, salt, and 2 tablespoons of cream. Beat on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
4. Adjust consistency
- For thicker frosting: add more powdered sugar.
- For thinner frosting: add 1 teaspoon of cream at a time until desired consistency is reached.
5. Add color & decorate
Divide frosting into bowls and mix in food coloring if desired. Spread onto completely cooled sugar cookies and top with sprinkles.
The Best Sugar Cookie Frosting
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Pro Tips
- Make sure cookies are fully cooled before frosting.
- For ultra-smooth frosting, sift the powdered sugar first.
- Want a bakery-style look? Use an offset spatula or piping bag.
- Let frosted cookies sit for 1–2 hours to slightly set before stacking.
FAQ
How long does sugar cookie frosting last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature and re-whip before using.
Can I freeze this frosting?
Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and re-whip before use.
Will this frosting harden?
It forms a light crust on the outside but stays soft underneath. If you need fully hardened frosting, royal icing would be better.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Absolutely! Milk works perfectly. Heavy cream simply makes it richer and creamier.
Can I flavor it differently?
Yes! Try almond extract, lemon extract, or even a touch of orange zest for fun variations.
The Best Sugar Cookie Frosting
The Best Sugar Cookie Frosting
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy cream (or milk)
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Food coloring (optional)
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until combined.
- Pour in the vanilla extract, salt, and 2 tablespoons of cream. Beat on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- For thicker frosting: add more powdered sugar.For thinner frosting: add 1 teaspoon of cream at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Divide frosting into bowls and mix in food coloring if desired. Spread onto completely cooled sugar cookies and top with sprinkles.
