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Sugar Cookie Frosting

A delightful frosting that brings the nostalgic flavors of vanilla and warmth to your sugar cookies, perfect for any festive occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Frosting
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 140
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Frosting Base
  • 1 cup Unsalted butter (softened) Adds richness; can substitute with vegan butter.
  • 3 to 4 cups Powdered sugar (sifted) Adjust sweetness; use 3 cups for less sugar.
  • 2 teaspoons Pure vanilla extract Soul of the frosting; can substitute with almond extract.
  • 2 to 4 tablespoons Heavy cream or whole milk For spreading consistency; use non-dairy alternatives for a vegan version.
  • a pinch Salt Balances sweetness.
Optional Additions
  • Food coloring For coloring the frosting.
  • Lemon zest or almond liqueur For flavor variations.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy and pale (about 2 minutes).
  2. Reduce speed and add 1 cup of sifted powdered sugar at a time, mixing until incorporated.
  3. Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
  4. Add 2 tablespoons of cream and beat on medium-high for 1 minute. Adjust consistency by adding more cream or powdered sugar as needed.
  5. If desired, divide frosting into bowls and stir in food coloring.
Decorating
  1. Pipe or spread onto cooled sugar cookies, adding sprinkles or finishing sugar if desired.
  2. For crisp edges, chill the frosting for 15 minutes before piping.

Notes

For a lighter frosting, substitute half the butter with Greek yogurt. Can fold in crushed candy canes for a holiday twist. Store frosted cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.