There’s something magical about decorating sugar cookies—especially around the holidays, birthdays, or rainy afternoons with the kids.

This Sugar Cookie Frosting recipe is my go-to every single time.

It’s buttery, sweet, and perfectly smooth. It spreads easily or pipes beautifully, and best of all?

It sets up just enough for stacking or transporting cookies without getting too hard or crunchy.

Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, party tray, or just for fun, this frosting will elevate every cookie it touches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smooth and creamy – Perfect for spreading or piping on cookies.

Sets well – Not rock hard, but firm enough to stack.

Easy to customize – Add different extracts or food coloring.

Made with pantry staples – No need for special ingredients.

Kid-friendly – Fun to make and decorate with little ones.

Great for holidays or gifting – Makes cookies look bakery-quality.

Delicious flavor combo – A mix of vanilla and almond makes it irresistible.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Here’s a quick look at the simple ingredients that make this frosting shine:

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and helps with structure.

Powdered Sugar – Gives the frosting sweetness and body.

Milk – Adjusts consistency; whole or 2% both work well.

Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and depth.

Almond Extract – The secret to classic sugar cookie flavor.

Food Coloring – Optional but fun! Gel-based works best for vibrant colors.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Soften the butter properly – Leave it at room temp for about 30 minutes.

Too cold, and it won’t blend. Too warm, and the frosting may be too soft.

Sift your powdered sugar – If it’s clumpy, sift it to keep your frosting silky smooth.

Use gel food coloring – It won’t thin out your frosting like liquid food coloring can.

Go slow with the milk – Add a little at a time to avoid overly thin frosting.

Want it to harden more? – Leave decorated cookies uncovered for a few hours.

How to Make Sugar Cookie Frosting

Step 1: Cream the butter
In a large bowl, add the softened butter.

Beat it with a hand mixer or stand mixer until creamy and smooth, about 1 minute.

Step 2: Add the powdered sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar (start with 3 cups), mixing on low at first to prevent a sugar storm, then increase to medium-high until well incorporated.

Step 3: Pour in milk and extracts
Add the vanilla extract, almond extract, and milk.

Mix until light and fluffy. If needed, add more powdered sugar to thicken or more milk to thin it out.

Step 4: Adjust the consistency
You want it thick enough to pipe or spread without running.

If it’s too stiff, add more milk 1 tsp at a time.

Step 5: Add color (optional)
Divide into bowls and tint with gel food coloring for vibrant holiday or themed colors.

Step 6: Decorate
Spread frosting on cooled sugar cookies using a knife or pipe using a bag fitted with a round or star tip.

Add sprinkles immediately, before it sets.

Step 7: Let it set
Allow decorated cookies to sit at room temperature uncovered for 1–2 hours so the frosting forms a light crust.

What to Serve It With

This frosting is perfect for:

Classic sugar cookies (cutouts or rounds)

Shortbread cookies

Cookie sandwiches

Vanilla cupcakes

Cinnamon rolls (for a sweeter topping twist!)

Variations / Substitutions

Use lemon extract instead of almond for a bright citrus twist.

Dairy-free? Use plant-based butter and oat milk.

Color it naturally with beet powder, turmeric, or matcha.

Make it chocolatey by adding 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder and a splash more milk.

Storage & Leftovers

Room Temp: Use immediately after making. It can sit out for a few hours while decorating.

Fridge: Store leftover frosting in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and re-whip before using.

FAQs

Does this frosting harden completely?
It forms a crust that’s dry to the touch but stays soft underneath—perfect for stacking without drying out.

Can I use this for piping designs?
Yes! Just make sure the consistency is stiff enough to hold shape.

Add more powdered sugar if needed.

Can I color the frosting?
Absolutely. Use gel food coloring for bright results without changing the texture.

What if I want it less sweet?
Try adding a pinch of salt or using unsalted butter and vanilla bean paste for a more balanced flavor.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it doubles beautifully.

Use a stand mixer for easier mixing in large batches.

What kind of cookies work best with this?
Classic cutout sugar cookies, shortbread, and even vanilla-flavored soft cookies work wonderfully.

How long does it take to set?
Usually within 1–2 hours uncovered at room temp.

For quicker setting, place cookies in the fridge briefly.

Final Thoughts

This Sugar Cookie Frosting is everything you want: creamy, flavorful, customizable, and easy to make.

Whether you’re prepping for a festive holiday tray or just want a fun weekend baking project, this frosting turns any batch of cookies into bakery-style treats.

Make a batch (or two), grab your sprinkles, and let your creativity shine—cookie decorating just got a whole lot more delicious!