Easy Sugar Cookie Frosting (Printable)
Creamy vanilla buttercream that spreads smoothly and sets perfectly for decorating cookies
# What You 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
# Steps:
01 - Beat softened butter in large mixing bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, approximately 1 minute.
02 - Gradually add sifted powdered sugar while beating on low speed until fully incorporated. Scrape down bowl sides as needed to ensure even mixing.
03 - Pour in milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes until frosting becomes light and fluffy.
04 - For thinner frosting, incorporate additional milk 1 teaspoon at a time. For firmer texture, add more powdered sugar until desired consistency reached.
05 - Spread or pipe frosting onto completely cooled sugar cookies. Let stand at room temperature for 1–2 hours to develop slight crust.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Comes together in under 10 minutes with ingredients you already have in your pantry
- Creates that perfect bakery-style crust on top while staying creamy underneath
02 -
- Room temperature ingredients are non-negotiable for smooth frosting without lumps
- Let the frosted cookies sit uncovered for at least an hour so the frosting sets up properly
03 -
- Sift your powdered sugar over a piece of parchment paper to make cleanup easier and avoid washing an extra sieve
- Place your mixing bowl in the sink when adding powdered sugar to contain the inevitable cloud of sugar dust