Butter Icing For Cookies

This classic butter icing recipe is a game-changer for cookie lovers! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll whip up a creamy, sweet, and utterly irresistible spread perfect for topping your favorite cookies. It’s a versatile recipe that’s easy to customize to your taste, and it’s ready in just a few minutes.

Ready Time

15 mins

Yields

6 servings

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-4 tablespoons whole milk, or as needed

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar and softened butter.

Beat on medium speed with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.

Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.

Add the whole milk, starting with 2 tablespoons and adding more as needed, until you reach your desired consistency.

You want the icing to be smooth and spreadable, but not too thin.

Beat the icing for an additional 2 minutes until it’s smooth and creamy.

Taste the icing and add more powdered sugar if you prefer it sweeter, or more milk if you prefer it thinner.

Use immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Bring to room temperature before using.

Notes

Make sure to sift your powdered sugar before using to avoid any lumps in your icing.

If you’re using a stand mixer, use the paddle attachment for best results.

Don’t overbeat your icing, as this can cause it to become too light and airy.

Start with 2 tablespoons of milk and add more as needed, as it’s easier to add more milk than it is to remove excess.

If you’re not using the icing right away, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the icing before refrigerating to prevent a crust from forming.

This icing is perfect for topping sugar cookies, and you can also experiment with different flavor extracts like almond or coconut for a different twist.