Looking for the perfect sugar cookie icing recipe that sets beautifully and tastes amazing? This foolproof recipe creates a smooth, glossy finish that's ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers, with just the right consistency for easy piping and spreading.
1teaspoonof your favorite extract: vanillaalmond, peppermint, or coconut
Food coloringoptional
Instructions
In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, corn syrup (or honey), and your chosen extract.
Gradually add more milk, a little at a time, until the icing reaches the right consistency. For piping or spreading, aim for a thicker texture. If you’re planning to dip cookies, you’ll want it slightly thinner.
Use the icing to decorate completely cooled cookies by piping, spreading, or dipping. Add sprinkles right away if desired, before the icing sets.
Notes
Corn syrup gives the icing a soft but stackable finish, perfect for gifting or storing. Honey, on the other hand, creates a softer finish, ideal for cookies served fresh and unstacked.
Make sure your cookies are fully cooled before applying the icing to avoid melting or running.
If you prefer to use honey, know that your finished cookies will have a softer set and may need to be stored in a single layer.
When adding coloring, start with just a tiny drop — you can always add more!