Easy Sugar Cookie Frosting (Printable View)

Creamy vanilla buttercream that spreads beautifully and sets with a slight crust for decorating sugar cookies.

# Ingredient List:

01 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

02 - 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

03 - 2 tablespoons whole milk (plus more as needed)

04 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

05 - Pinch of salt

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.

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.

01 -

Its incredibly forgiving and comes together faster than you can preheat your oven
The texture transforms from fluffy to perfectly set without losing that luxurious melt in your mouth quality

02 -

Completely cool cookies are non negotiable or your frosting will melt right off and leave you with a sticky mess
Room temperature ingredients prevent seizing and ensure the smoothest possible texture

03 -

For chocolate variation, replace 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar with cocoa powder and add an extra teaspoon of milk
Clear vanilla extract creates bright white frosting perfect for winter themes and elegant designs