This frosting works perfectly for spreading with a knife or piping decorative borders and swirls. You can easily tint it with gel food coloring for themed cookies, and it holds its shape without becoming overly stiff.
Sugar Cookie Frosting
This recipe (1X) yields about 2 cups
- Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tbsp heavy cream (plus more as needed)
- 1 tbsp light corn syrup
- 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- pinch of fine salt
Directions for Vanilla Sugar Cookie Frosting.
Step 1 – Beat the butter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.

Step 2 – Add powdered sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3 – Add liquids
Add heavy cream, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth.

Step 4 – Adjust consistency
If the frosting is too thick, add cream 1 teaspoon at a time. If too thin, add additional powdered sugar until desired consistency is reached.

Step 5 – Decorate
Spread onto cooled sugar cookies with a knife or pipe using a pastry bag. Allow cookies to sit at room temperature for 1–2 hours until frosting sets.

Tips for Perfect Frosting
- Use room temperature butter for the smoothest texture.
- For bright colors, use gel food coloring instead of liquid.
- Store frosted cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
This frosting gives sugar cookies a bakery-style finish with minimal effort—perfect for holidays, parties, or everyday baking.
Nutrition (Per 2 Tbsp)
Vanilla Sugar Cookie Frosting FAQ
Vanilla Sugar Cookie Frosting: Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers for the perfect consistency, smooth piping, make-ahead tips, and storing frosted cookies.
How do I make the frosting thicker (for piping)? +
How do I thin it out for spreading or flooding? +
Why use corn syrup in sugar cookie frosting? +
Can I make this frosting ahead of time? +
Can I freeze sugar cookie frosting? +
How should I store frosted sugar cookies? +
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