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There’s something truly special about homemade sugar cookie frosting. It’s not just a topping; it’s a magical blend that transforms a simple sugar cookie into a decadent treat. This particular recipe, with its dance of flavors, elevates sugar cookies to a whole new level. Imagine a scrumptious mix of buttery richness, the creamy tang of cream cheese, and a symphony of vanilla, coconut, and almond extracts. Each bite is not just a treat for your taste buds but an experience in itself.

A large pyrex overflowing with sugar cookie frosting

The secret behind the sugar cookie frosting flavors

What makes this frosting so irresistible? Let’s dive into the science behind these flavors. Butter, a key ingredient, adds a creamy texture and rich flavor due to its fat content. But it’s not just about taste; the fat in butter also plays a critical role in achieving the right consistency.

Cream cheese introduces a delightful tanginess, balancing the sweetness of the powdered sugar. This balance is crucial. Too much sweetness can be overpowering, while the right amount accentuates the other flavors.

One of the secrets is in the extracts – vanilla, coconut, and almond – each bring their own unique profiles. Vanilla adds a classic, warm sweetness, almond gives a nutty depth, and coconut brings a tropical twist.

Why do you need to whip your frosting?

The instruction to whip the frosting for two minutes, until it’s lighter in color and texture, is more than just a step; it’s a transformative process. Whipping incorporates air into the frosting, making it light and fluffy. This change in texture not only makes the frosting more appealing to the palate but also easier to spread or pipe onto cookies.

Sugar cookie in hand with a bite taken

What is in sugar cookie frosting?

Unsalted butter

When selecting ingredients, quality matters. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors.

Cream cheese

The type of cream cheese, whether full-fat or reduced-fat, will also affect the frosting’s texture and flavor. I like to use full fat cream cheese in my frosting.

Powdered sugar

Powdered sugar preserves and thickens the frosting

Extracts

This unique blend of extracts makes this sugar cookie frosting the very best. Its something you just have to try to understand.

How long should sugar cookie frosting sit on cookies before serving?

It’s best to let the frosting set for at least an hour. This allows the frosting to soak into the cookie just a little bit, softening the cookie and blending the flavors.

Holiday sugar cookies on a wooden platter

Can this sugar cookie frosting be colored or flavored differently?

Absolutely! You can add food coloring for a visual appeal or tweak the extract ratios for a different flavor profile.

How should frosted cookies be stored?

Because this frosting has cream cheese in the mixture, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 8 hours. For longer storage, refrigerating is recommended. They can last in the fridge for up to 1 week. You can also put them in the freezer for up to 1 month.

Is it possible to make this frosting less sweet?

Yes, you can reduce the powdered sugar amount or add a pinch of salt to cut through the sweetness. Although, reducing the sugar will alter the structure of the frosting. If you reduce the sugar by too much you will have a runny frosting.

Equipment Recommendations:

For the best results, use a standing mixer for a consistent and smooth texture. Piping bags and tips are also great for decorating cookies with precision.

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Sugar Cookie Frosting

Sugar Cookie Frosting

5 from 1 vote
Author: Madison Reid
Total Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 24
The very best sugar cookie frosting there is. This unique frosting is a dance of flavors, all complimenting each other and changing the sugar cookie for the better.

Ingredients 

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 8 ounces cream cheese
  • 5 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp coconut extract
  • 1 tsp almond extract

Instructions

  • In a standing mixer combine cream cheese and butter until softened
  • Add sugar and extracts, mix until fully combined
  • Turn speed up to medium high and whip for 2 minutes, until lighter in color and texture
  • Pipe or spread this frosting all over your sugar cookies

Nutrition

Calories: 199kcal Carbohydrates: 26g Protein: 1g Fat: 11g Saturated Fat: 7g Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g Monounsaturated Fat: 3g Trans Fat: 0.3g Cholesterol: 30mg Sodium: 31mg Potassium: 16mg Sugar: 25g Vitamin A: 363IU Calcium: 12mg Iron: 0.03mg

Have you tried this recipe?

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sugar cookie frosting