Sugar Cookie Icing Recipe
Introduction
This simple sugar cookie icing recipe creates a smooth, glossy finish perfect for decorating your favorite cookies. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a colorful, sweet glaze that hardens slightly for a professional 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 corn syrup and your choice of extract thoroughly.
- Step 2: Gradually add milk, one teaspoon at a time, stirring well after each addition until you reach the desired smooth consistency.
- Step 3: Add food coloring a few drops at a time, mixing until you achieve your preferred shade.
Tips & Variations
- Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a subtle nutty flavor.
- Adjust the milk quantity to make the icing thicker for piping or thinner for flooding cookies.
- Add a pinch of salt if your powdered sugar is too sweet.
Storage
Store leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using, bring it back to room temperature and stir well. If it thickens, add a few drops of milk to loosen it.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use this icing for cakes or cupcakes?
This icing works best on cookies as it sets with a slight sheen but remains soft. For cakes or cupcakes, a buttercream or glaze might be preferable for better texture.
How long does it take for the icing to dry?
Depending on thickness and humidity, the icing usually dries to a firm texture within 1 to 2 hours at room temperature.
PrintSugar Cookie Icing Recipe
This classic sugar cookie icing recipe produces a smooth, glossy finish perfect for decorating sugar cookies. Made with powdered sugar, milk, light corn syrup, and a hint of vanilla or almond extract, it is easy to mix and customize with food coloring to achieve the perfect shade for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Enough icing to decorate about 24 standard sugar cookies
- Category: Dessert Topping
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
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 Ingredients: Begin by sifting the powdered sugar to remove any lumps. In a mixing bowl, combine the sifted sugar with the light corn syrup and your choice of extract, either vanilla or almond. Stir well to start forming the icing base.
- Add Milk to Adjust Consistency: Gradually add milk one teaspoon at a time to the mixture while stirring continuously. Keep adding until the icing reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency suitable for decorating your cookies.
- Color the Icing: Incorporate food coloring a few drops at a time into the icing. Mix thoroughly until you achieve your desired color. Adjust coloring as necessary for vibrant or pastel hues.
Notes
- If your icing is too thick, add more milk very sparingly, one drop at a time.
- For a shinier finish, extra light corn syrup can be added.
- This icing hardens as it dries, which makes it perfect for stacking cookies or gifting.
- Store any leftover icing covered tightly to prevent it from drying out.
Keywords: Sugar cookie icing, easy cookie decoration, homemade icing, powdered sugar glaze, vanilla almond icing

