Easy Sugar Cookie Frosting (Printable)

A quick, creamy vanilla frosting that spreads smoothly and sets perfectly for decorated cookies.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Butter Mixture

01 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

→ Sweetener

02 - 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

→ Flavors

03 - 2 tablespoons whole milk (plus more as needed)
04 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
05 - Pinch of salt

# How-to Steps:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.
02 - Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low until incorporated. Scrape the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
03 - Add the milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on medium-high for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
04 - For a thinner consistency, add more milk, 1 teaspoon at a time. For a firmer frosting, add a little more powdered sugar.
05 - Spread or pipe onto completely cooled sugar cookies. Allow to set at room temperature for 1–2 hours for a slight crust.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The texture transforms from silky in the bowl to a perfectly set finish on cookies that wont smear when stacked
  • It uses pantry staples you already have, no special trips to the store required
02 -
  • Frosting warm cookies creates a melty mess that slides right off the edges
  • Room temperature butter is non-negotiable—cold butter leaves tiny grainy specks no matter how long you beat it
03 -
  • Let your frosted cookies sit uncovered at room temperature for that perfect slight crust—stacking too early creates smudges and sad fingerprints
  • Refrigerate leftover frosting for up to a week, then bring it to room temperature and re-whip before using

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