Simplest Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens (Shiny)

Need an easy, back pocket recipe for sugar cookie icing? Learn how to make cookie frosting that hardens into a glossy, shiny glaze coating. This kid-approved recipe uses four simple ingredients (with no meringue powder!), takes five minutes to make, and makes decorating a breeze for all ages.

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings cookies

Author Melissa Erdelac

Ingredients

2 cups powdered sugar
6-8 teaspoons milk
4 teaspoons light corn syrup
½ teaspoon almond or vanilla extract
food coloring optional

Instructions

Add the powdered sugar to a medium bowl. Add 6 teaspoons milk, corn syrup, and extract. Stir vigorously until icing is smooth and no lumps remain.
2 cups powdered sugar, 6-8 teaspoons milk, 4 teaspoons light corn syrup, ½ teaspoon almond or vanilla extract
If needed, add additional milk to thin icing. Test the desired consistency for spreading by lifting a spoonful from the bowl. It should drizzle back down slowly and mound gently.
If making colored icing, divide into small bowls and stir in food colorings. (See recipe notes for tips on decorating.)
Spread icing on cookies and immediate decorate with sprinkles, if using. Transfer decorated cookies to a baking sheet and let sit for 12-24 hours to harden completely before stacking and storing.

Notes

Icing Sugar Cookies

Pipe an outline of icing around the edges. This makes a dam for clean icing edges.
Use the same tip to fill in the middle. A small knife or toothpick helps smooth over any gaps.
If using sprinkles, decorate immediately. The top layer will harden quickly.
Set cookies on baking sheets to fully harden. This will take 12-24 hours, depending on the amount of frosting used.

More Tips and Modifications

Start with adding the minimal amount of milk. Add more if the icing is too thick to spread. If frosting is too thin add more powdered sugar.
The almond extract may be substituted for vanilla, lemon, maple, coconut, peppermint or orange extract.
In place of the milk, non-dairy milk, lemon juice, or water may be used.

Nutrition