Sugar Cookie Icing Recipe
Introduction
Sugar cookie icing is a simple, smooth glaze perfect for decorating your favorite sugar cookies. With just a few ingredients, you can create vibrant, glossy icing that sets beautifully and adds a sweet finishing touch.

Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 2 teaspoons light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract
- Food coloring
Instructions
- Step 1: Sift the powdered sugar into a bowl to remove any lumps, then mix in the light corn syrup and your choice of vanilla or almond extract until smooth.
- Step 2: Gradually add the milk, one teaspoon at a time, stirring well after each addition, until the icing reaches your desired consistency for spreading or piping.
- Step 3: Add food coloring a little at a time, mixing thoroughly, until you achieve the color you want for decorating your cookies.
Tips & Variations
- For a shinier finish, use clear vanilla extract and adjust the corn syrup slightly to achieve extra gloss.
- If you prefer a stiffer icing for detailed piping, use less milk and add it slowly.
- Try almond extract for a subtle nutty flavor that pairs well with vanilla cookies.
Storage
Store any leftover icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Stir well before using again, and if it thickens too much, add a few drops of milk to restore consistency.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use this icing for other cookies or cakes?
Yes, this icing works well on a variety of cookies and can be used as a light glaze on cakes, but it is best suited for treats that can dry without smudging.
How long does the icing take to set?
The icing typically sets within 1-2 hours at room temperature, becoming firm to the touch. For faster setting, place the decorated cookies in a cool, dry area.
PrintSugar Cookie Icing Recipe
This simple and versatile sugar cookie icing recipe creates a smooth, glossy icing perfect for decorating sugar cookies. With a base of powdered sugar, milk, and corn syrup, you can customize the color using your favorite food coloring to make vibrant designs that harden to a shiny finish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Enough to ice about 12 standard sugar cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Icing Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 2 teaspoons light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract
- Food coloring, as needed
Instructions
- Sift Sugar and Mix Extracts: Sift the powdered sugar to remove lumps, then combine it with the light corn syrup and vanilla or almond extract in a mixing bowl. Stir until thoroughly blended.
- Add Milk Gradually: Add the milk slowly, about 1 teaspoon at a time, mixing continuously until you reach the desired consistency for your icing. The goal is a smooth, spreadable but slightly stiff texture.
- Color the Icing: Incorporate food coloring drop by drop, stirring well after each addition until the desired hue is achieved. Adjust amounts to reach vibrant or pastel tones based on preference.
Notes
- Adding milk gradually is key to controlling the icing consistency. Thicker icing is better for piping details, while thinner icing works for flooding cookies.
- Light corn syrup helps give the icing a glossy finish and prevents crystallization.
- You can substitute almond extract with vanilla or use other extracts for different flavor profiles.
- For best results, decorate cookies within a few hours of icing application before it hardens.
Keywords: sugar cookie icing, royal icing alternative, simple cookie frosting, cookie decoration, sweet glaze

