Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe With Icing Recipe

If you’re anything like me, you know there’s something just so comforting about a classic sugar cookie adorned with a sweet, smooth icing. This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe With Icing Recipe has quickly become my go-to for whenever I want a simple, crowd-pleasing treat that’s just as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether it’s a casual snack, bake sale, or holiday gathering, these cookies hit that perfect balance of buttery softness with a delightful hint of vanilla, and that glossy icing? It’s the icing on the party, literally!

What makes this Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe With Icing Recipe truly special is how effortless it is to pull together with everyday ingredients, plus the icing is straightforward enough that even if you’re new to decorating, you’ll still end up with cookies that look and taste like you put way more work into them than you actually did. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll be one you’ll turn to for years — it’s that reliable and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe With Icing Recipe plays a role in creating that perfect cookie texture and icing consistency. Don’t worry if you don’t have fancy baking ingredients; these pantry staples come together beautifully to create something special.

• Unsalted butter: Softened butter is key here — it’s what makes these cookies tender and buttery without being greasy.
• Granulated sugar: The classic sweetener for that crisp bite and slight crunch on the edges.
• Vanilla extract: Adds that warm, familiar flavor — I love using pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
• Large egg: Helps bind everything together and contributes to the cookie’s soft structure.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cookie dough, giving it structure and chew.
• Baking powder: Just a touch to help the cookies rise ever so slightly for a tender crumb.
• Table salt: This balances out the sweetness and intensifies the flavors.
• Powdered sugar: For the icing, sifted to keep it smooth and lump-free.
• Milk: Whole milk works best for a creamy icing, but any milk you have on hand is fine.
• Light corn syrup: This keeps the icing shiny and helps it set beautifully — don’t skip this!
• Gel food coloring (optional): Perfect if you want to add a pop of color and make these cookies festive.
• Candies and sprinkles (optional): For decorating and adding that extra bit of fun on top.

Variations

One of the best things about this Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe With Icing Recipe is how easy it is to tweak it to your liking. Over time, I’ve played around with different flavors and decorating styles, so I encourage you to make it your own and have fun!

• Lemon zest variation: Adding a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to the dough gives a bright, citrusy twist I adore for springtime baking.
• Gluten-free version: Swapping all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend works quite well, just be sure to keep the dough chilled before baking.
• Nutty add-in: Folding in finely chopped almonds or pecans adds a nice crunch and depth of flavor.
• Chocolate dip: After icing, dip half the cookie in melted chocolate for an extra indulgence that’s always a hit with kids.
• Seasonal themes: Use different colored icings and themed sprinkles — I love doing red and green for Christmas or pastel shades for Easter.

How to Make Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe With Icing Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by beating the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer. Getting this step right is crucial because it incorporates air, making your cookies nice and tender. If you skim over it, your cookies may turn out dense.

Step 2: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Once your butter and sugar are creamed, add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until fully combined. Make sure not to overbeat here—you want everything just combined for that perfect dough texture.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps distribute the raising agent and salt evenly throughout the dough. I always sift these ingredients to avoid any lumps, which can affect the texture of your cookies.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed. Stop as soon as the flour is fully incorporated — overmixing can develop gluten and make the cookies tough. The dough should be soft but not sticky; if it feels too sticky, chill it for about 15 minutes before rolling out.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thick, then use cookie cutters for fun shapes or simply cut into squares. Place them on an ungreased baking sheet with a bit of space between each. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden — you want them soft, not crunchy.

Step 6: Prepare the Icing

While the cookies cool, mix the powdered sugar, milk, light corn syrup, and vanilla extract for the icing. Adjust the milk amount a little to achieve your desired consistency — thicker icing is better for piping details, while thinner one is easier for flooding the cookies. Add gel food coloring if you want to get creative. I love how this simple icing sets with a nice shine, thanks to the corn syrup.

Step 7: Decorate

Once the cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe the icing over the top. Add sprinkles or candies while the icing is still wet so they stick well. I’ve found that letting the decorated cookies sit out for a couple of hours helps the icing harden perfectly before storing or serving.

How to Serve Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe With Icing Recipe

Garnishes

I often top these cookies with a mix of colorful sprinkles and edible glitter, especially for parties or holidays. Sometimes, I like adding tiny silver dragées for that extra festive touch. It’s amazing how just a little sparkle can elevate the whole look!

Side Dishes

When I serve these sugar cookies, I like to pair them with a simple cup of tea or a frothy latte. For gatherings, a bowl of fresh berries or a light fruit salad balances out the sweetness nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For birthdays or holidays, I’ve arranged these iced sugar cookies on a tiered cake stand for an eye-catching dessert display. Another favorite trick is wrapping a few in cellophane tied with a ribbon, making the perfect homemade gift. You can even stamp messages or names on the icing using food-safe markers for a really personal touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, layering with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week, but honestly, they rarely last that long in my house!

Freezing

I freeze the undecorated cookies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. When I want to enjoy them, I thaw at room temperature then quickly whip up a fresh batch of icing. This method keeps the cookies tasting fresh and soft — and it’s a real time-saver during busy holidays.

Reheating

I don’t usually reheat sugar cookies because they’re perfect at room temp, but if you’re aiming for a slightly warm bite, pop them in the microwave for 5-7 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat and soften the icing too much.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe With Icing Recipe will quickly become one of those trusted recipes you turn to again and again. What I love most is how approachable it feels but how impressive the results are — soft, buttery cookies with that irresistible glossy icing that invites you to decorate to your heart’s content. If you’re looking for a recipe that brings joy, flavor, and a little bit of nostalgia to your kitchen, I promise this one won’t disappoint. Grab your ingredients and get ready to bake some happy memories!

Print