Sugar Cookie Icing Recipe
Introduction
Sugar cookie icing is a simple and sweet glaze that adds the perfect finishing touch to your favorite cookies. This easy-to-make icing is smooth, glossy, and customizable with different colors and flavors. It’s ideal for decorating festive treats or everyday snacks.

Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 2 teaspoons light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Sift the powdered sugar into a bowl to remove any lumps, then mix in the light corn syrup and your choice of extract (vanilla or almond).
- Step 2: Add milk gradually, one teaspoon at a time, stirring after each addition until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Step 3: Stir in food coloring a little at a time until you achieve the desired color for your icing.
Tips & Variations
- For a thicker icing perfect for detailed decorating, use less milk. For a thinner glaze, add a bit more milk.
- Almond extract offers a lovely nutty flavor, but vanilla is classic and pairs well with most cookies.
- If you want a shinier finish, add a small amount more corn syrup.
Storage
Store any leftover icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Stir before using, as it may thicken or separate slightly. This icing does not refrigerate well because it can harden and lose its smooth texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other extracts besides vanilla or almond?
Yes, feel free to experiment with extracts like lemon, peppermint, or coconut to customize the flavor of your icing.
How do I fix icing that is too runny?
Add powdered sugar gradually and mix well until the icing thickens to your desired consistency.
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Sugar Cookie Icing Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 cup of icing, enough to decorate 12-15 medium sugar cookies 1x
Description
This Sugar Cookie Icing recipe creates a smooth, glossy glaze perfect for decorating sugar cookies. Combining powdered sugar, milk, corn syrup, and a hint of vanilla or almond extract, this icing is easily customizable with food coloring to match any occasion.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 2 teaspoons light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract
Optional
- Food coloring, as desired
Instructions
- Sift the powdered sugar: Begin by sifting the powdered sugar into a mixing bowl to remove any lumps and ensure a smooth icing base.
- Mix in corn syrup and extract: Add 2 teaspoons of light corn syrup and 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to the sifted sugar. Stir well until fully combined, creating a glossy foundation for your icing.
- Add milk gradually: Pour in milk slowly, about 1 teaspoon at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Continue until the icing reaches your desired consistency—thick enough to hold shape but spreadable.
- Add food coloring: Incorporate food coloring gradually to tint the icing to your preferred shade. Mix well after each drop to evenly distribute the color.
Notes
- To achieve stiffer icing suitable for piping detailed decorations, reduce the amount of milk slightly.
- If your icing becomes too runny, add more powdered sugar a teaspoon at a time until thickened.
- Store leftover icing covered with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent drying out.
- Use immediately or refrigerate briefly; bring to room temperature and stir before use if chilled.
- This icing hardens when dry, making it perfect for stacking or gifting decorated cookies.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Icing
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: sugar cookie icing, glaze, cookie decoration, easy icing recipe, holiday cookies

