Sugar Cookie Frosting Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate Sugar Cookie Frosting that’s creamy, dreamy, and incredibly easy to whip up, look no further! This irresistible frosting strikes just the right balance of buttery richness and a hint of tang from cream cheese, all perfectly complemented by a trio of extracts that bring out the best possible vanilla, coconut, and almond flavors. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday cookie exchange or just want to transform everyday sugar cookies into something swoon-worthy, this recipe will become your go-to. Prepare to fall head over heels for this luscious topping that turns any cookie into a bakery-level treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Sugar Cookie Frosting lies in its handful of simple ingredients, each chosen for a specific reason. Together they create a frosting that’s smooth, spreadable, and beautifully flavored. Here’s everything you need, with tips to get the absolute best result every single time.

• Unsalted Butter: The foundation for rich, creamy texture; make sure it’s softened for easy blending and fluffiness.
• Cream Cheese: Adds just the right tang and luxurious smoothness that makes this frosting stand out from the rest.
• Powdered Sugar: Melts effortlessly into the mixture, creating that velvety sweetness that clings perfectly to cookies.
• Vanilla Extract: Gives classic warmth and depth, enhancing all the other flavors in the frosting.
• Coconut Extract: Brightens the flavor profile and adds a subtle tropical note that pairs beautifully with sugar cookies.
• Almond Extract: Just a touch transforms the frosting with a slightly nutty, elegant finish that’s simply irresistible.

How to Make Sugar Cookie Frosting

Step 1: Soften and Combine the Butter and Cream Cheese

Start by placing the unsalted butter and cream cheese in your stand mixer. Make sure both are at room temperature; this is key for a silky-smooth Sugar Cookie Frosting! Beat the two together until fully softened and there are no lumps—you want the mixture to be as creamy and uniform as possible.

Step 2: Add Sugar and Extracts

Next, add the powdered sugar a little at a time to keep things neat (and your kitchen relatively mess-free). Follow with the vanilla, coconut, and almond extracts. Mix everything together on low to medium speed until it’s all combined and the frosting thickens up beautifully. You’ll see the texture transform before your eyes!

Step 3: Whip Until Fluffy

Now comes the secret to luscious Sugar Cookie Frosting: crank up the mixer to medium-high and whip the frosting for 2 minutes. It’ll become lighter in color and impossibly fluffy—perfect for spreading or piping onto cookies.

Step 4: Spread or Pipe on Sugar Cookies

Grab a piping bag or a simple offset spatula and get creative! We love piling generous swirls on each cookie, but a smooth, thick layer looks just as lovely. This frosting holds its shape and adds instant “wow” factor to even the simplest sugar cookies.

How to Serve Sugar Cookie Frosting

Garnishes

Finish your frosted cookies with a playful shower of sprinkles, colorful sanding sugar, or edible glitter for a festive touch. You can also add finely chopped nuts, toasted coconut, or a light dusting of cinnamon for more grown-up flair—there’s no wrong way to make these look extra special!

Side Dishes

While these frosted cookies truly shine on their own, they pair wonderfully with a mug of hot chocolate, cold milk, or coffee. If you’re hosting a party, lay your frosted cookies alongside fresh fruit or a simple chocolate fondue for a dessert spread your guests won’t forget.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond the usual and use your Sugar Cookie Frosting as a filling for cookie sandwiches, or pipe rosettes on cupcakes for an unexpected sugar cookie twist. You can tint your frosting with food coloring for themed occasions or holidays, and even use stencils to create detailed designs right on top of each cookie.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have frosting left after your decorating spree, simply transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to five days. Before using, allow it to come to room temperature and give it a quick whip to restore its original fluffiness.

Freezing

Good news: this Sugar Cookie Frosting freezes beautifully! Place it in a freezer-safe container, and smooth the top before sealing. It will keep for up to three months. When you’re ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then whip it up again to revive its texture.

Reheating

While you won’t want to heat this frosting directly, bringing it back to room temperature after chilling or freezing is all you need. For the best results, let it sit out for about 30 minutes, then whip with your mixer on low speed to return it to its creamy, spreadable glory.

FAQs

Can I make Sugar Cookie Frosting without cream cheese?

You can, but the cream cheese really sets this recipe apart! If you need a substitute, try mascarpone or increase the butter, but keep in mind the flavor and texture will be a bit different—less tangy and more purely sweet.

What’s the best way to color Sugar Cookie Frosting?

Gel food coloring works best for vibrant colors without making the frosting too runny. Add a little at a time and mix well—you can always deepen the color, but you can’t take it away!

How do I keep my frosting from getting too runny?

If you find your Sugar Cookie Frosting is a bit too soft, simply add a bit more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired thickness. Chilling it briefly in the fridge also helps it to firm up for piping.

Can I use this frosting for cakes or cupcakes?

Absolutely! This frosting is wonderfully versatile and delicious on cakes, cupcakes, brownies, or even as a sweet dip for fruit or graham crackers. Its flavor is subtle enough to play with all sorts of baked treats.

How far ahead can I frost my cookies?

You can frost cookies up to two days in advance. Allow the frosting to set for at least an hour before stacking or storing cookies to prevent smudging or sticking.

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love sharing this Sugar Cookie Frosting recipe with fellow bakers—it’s the secret to transforming any simple cookie into something unforgettable. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself reaching for this recipe every time you bake sugar cookies. Happy decorating!

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