Name: Sugar Cookie Icing
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups powdered sugar; 4 teaspoons milk (more as needed); 4 teaspoons light corn syrup; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla extract); Food coloring (optional)

Why You’ll Love Sugar Cookie Icing Recipe

• Simple, beginner-friendly icing that comes together in minutes.
• Uses basic pantry ingredients with optional color and flavor customization.
• Dries with a smooth, shiny finish great for holidays or everyday treats.
• Versatile consistency — perfect for flooding and piping.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
powdered sugar (also called confectioners’ sugar or icing sugar)
milk (whole or your choice; water can be substituted for dairy‑free or room‑temperature storage)
light corn syrup
vanilla extract (optional for flavor; clear vanilla keeps icing whiter)
food coloring (optional)

Directions

Whisk the powdered sugar in a bowl (sifting helps achieve a silky smooth texture).
Add milk, corn syrup, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
Adjust consistency by adding a little more milk to thin or powdered sugar to thicken as needed.
Divide icing into bowls and mix in food coloring if desired.
Spread, pipe, flood, or dip cookies as preferred.
Allow icing to set before stacking or storing.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes enough icing to decorate about 1 dozen cookies (quantity will vary with cookie size and how thickly you ice).
Prep time: about 5 minutes
Icing drying time: 2–3 hours at room temperature (longer in humid conditions)

Variations

• Flavor twists: Add almond, lemon, orange, or peppermint extract for seasonal flair.
• Color options: Use gel food coloring for vibrant hues without thinning the icing.
• Consistency changes: For thicker piping icing, reduce milk slightly; for thinner flood icing, add a touch more.

Storage/Reheating

• Store any leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
• Freeze leftover icing or decorated cookies for up to two months; thaw in the fridge before use.
• No reheating needed — if icing thickens after chilling, whisk in a small amount of milk to smooth before use.

FAQs

How long does sugar cookie icing take to dry?

Icing typically takes 2–3 hours at room temperature to set hard enough to stack, though humidity can extend this time.

Can I make this icing ahead of time?

Yes — you can prepare the icing ahead and store it airtight in the fridge for up to two weeks.

What if my icing is too thick?

Add a teaspoon of milk at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

What if my icing is too thin?

Stir in more powdered sugar a little at a time to thicken it.

Can I use water instead of milk?

Yes — water works, especially for dairy‑free needs or room‑temperature storage.

Why isn’t my icing drying?

It may have too much liquid — add a bit more powdered sugar or let decorated cookies sit longer.

Can I add flavor to the icing?

Absolutely — try extracts like almond, lemon, or peppermint.

What coloring should I use?

Gel food coloring gives bright colors without thinning icing.

How do I flood cookies?

Outline with thicker icing, then fill with thinner consistency for a smooth surface.

Is this the same as royal icing?

No — royal icing uses egg whites and dries very hard; this recipe skips egg whites and is softer with a shiny finish.

Conclusion

This sugar cookie icing recipe is a go-to choice for anyone who wants beautiful, decorated cookies without the fuss of traditional royal icing. With minimal ingredients and easy techniques, you can achieve smooth, shiny, customizable icing perfect for every occasion.