Easy Sugar Cookie Frosting
This sweet, smooth, and light butter-based frosting is perfect for decorating classic sugar cookies, offering a buttery vanilla flavor with a hint of almond that can be easily colored for festive designs.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened (about 76 g) Bring to room temperature for best texture.
- 4½ cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar) Sift if lumpy.
- ¼ cup milk, plus more as needed (60 ml) Use whole or plant milk for dairy-free options.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract Can be replaced with additional vanilla extract.
- Food coloring (various colors for decorating) Use gel colors for vibrant hues.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place ⅓ cup softened unsalted butter in a medium mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- With the mixer running on low, add the 4½ cups powdered sugar one cup at a time. Pause to scrape down the sides of the bowl after each cup.
- Pour in the ¼ cup milk, then add ½ teaspoon vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon almond extract. Mix on low until combined.
- Increase mixer to medium speed and mix until the frosting is smooth. If too thick, add more milk one teaspoon at a time.
- Divide frosting into bowls for coloring; add food coloring and stir until desired shade is achieved.
- Use or store frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days.
Notes
For best results, keep butter at room temperature and use gel food coloring. Frosting can be made a day ahead and re-whipped before use.