Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This icing is quick to make, customizable with colors and flavors, and perfect for everything from basic icing to intricate cookie art. It dries hard enough for stacking and packaging, but remains soft underneath. It’s great for holiday cookies, birthday treats, or everyday fun baking projects.

Ingredients

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 teaspoons milk (any kind)
2 teaspoons light corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract
Food coloring (gel or liquid), optional

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Mix the Icing Base:
In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, 2 teaspoons of milk, corn syrup, and extract until smooth and glossy.
Adjust Consistency:
Add more milk a few drops at a time if icing is too thick; add more powdered sugar if it’s too thin.
For outlining, icing should be thicker. For flooding, add a little more milk for a thinner consistency.
Color the Icing:
Divide icing into separate bowls and mix in desired food coloring.
Decorate:
Use piping bags, squeeze bottles, or a spoon to decorate cooled cookies.
Let icing set at room temperature for 1–2 hours (longer for thick layers).

Servings and Timing

Servings: Enough for decorating 12–16 cookies
Prep time: 5 minutes
Set time: 1–2 hours
Total time: About 2 hours

Variations

Flavor Options: Try lemon, peppermint, or almond extract for variety.
Sparkle: Add sanding sugar or edible glitter before icing dries.
Chocolate: Add 1–2 teaspoons of cocoa powder for a chocolate version.
Vegan: Use plant-based milk and corn syrup.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store unused icing in an airtight container for up to 1 week; stir before reuse.
Decorated Cookies: Once icing is fully set, store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

FAQs

How long does the icing take to dry?

1–2 hours for a light layer; overnight for thick or detailed designs.

Can I freeze iced cookies?

Yes, freeze after icing is completely set.

Do I need to refrigerate the icing?

No, store at room temperature in an airtight container.

What if I don’t have corn syrup?

Honey or agave syrup can be used, but consistency may vary.

Can I use this icing for piping detailed designs?

Yes, use a thicker consistency for outlines and details.

Is this icing good for kids to use?

Yes, it’s easy to work with and safe for all ages.

Can I make this icing without food coloring?

Yes, it works just as well without added color.

Will the icing melt or smear?

Once set, it’s stable and stackable.

Can I double or triple this recipe?

Absolutely, scale ingredients as needed.

How do I thin the icing for flooding?

Add milk a few drops at a time until it flows smoothly.

Conclusion

Easy Sugar Cookie Icing is a foolproof way to beautifully decorate cookies with a shiny, colorful finish. Quick to make and simple to use, it’s perfect for adding a festive touch to any batch of sugar cookies, from holidays to everyday treats.