The BEST 4-Ingredient Sugar Cookie Frosting

Top down image of a christmas cookie decorate with red and white sugar cookie frosting.

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The BEST 4-Ingredient Sugar Cookie Frosting

Every sugar cookie needs a velvety smooth frosting to complement its buttery flavor and crispy edges and this Sugar Cookie Frosting recipe does just that. Creamy, smooth, and easy to work with, this frosting takes your sugar cookies to bakery level perfection.

Prep Time15

Total Time15

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Christmas Cookies, cream cheese frosting, Sugar cookie frosting

Servings:

Calories: 93kcal

Author: Chandice Probst

Cost: 10

Equipment

Stand mixer or Hand Mixer

Ingredients

8 ounces cream cheese
2 tablespoons butter softened
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
16 ounces confectioners sugar 1 package

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and softened butter together using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy, making sure there are no lumps.
Slowly add the confectioners sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time, while mixing on low speed. Increase speed to medium-high once incorporated. Mix until the frosting looks fluffy
Pour in the vanilla extract and mix until evenly combined.
If the frosting is too thick for spreading or piping, add a teaspoon of milk or cream at a time until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add in a little more confectioners sugar.
Use right away to frost cooled sugar cookies. If you need to store cover the frosting tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Before using, let the frosting to come to room temperature and stir to bring back its creamy texture.

Notes

Make ahead and storage

Make ahead: Make ahead and store for up to 3 days following the directions below or you can freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then let it come to room temperature before mixing and using.

How to store: If you have leftover holiday frosting, store it in an airtight container or ziplock baggie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before using, let it come to room temperature and stir until creamy. (I like to use a ziplock baggie and cut a hole in the corner for an easy piping bag!)

Variations

Extra flavor: Swap out the vanilla for almond extract, peppermint extract, or even lemon extract for a unique spin on the classic recipe.

Mix ins: For extra festivity and texture, mix in finely crushed candy canes or sprinkles directly into the frosting. For these red hots cookies, I like to add crushed Red Hot candies into the frosting.

Nutrition