Description
This recipe provides a simple and foolproof method for creating a beautiful and delicious sugar cookie icing that dries to a smooth, hard finish. Perfect for holiday cookies, special occasion treats, or just adding a touch of sweetness to your day, this icing is easily customizable with various colors and flavors. The key to its success lies in using gel food coloring and adjusting the consistency with powdered sugar or milk, ensuring a flawless result every time.
Ingredients:
- 2 ¼ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon clear vanilla flavoring
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
- Gel food coloring, optional
Preparation:
Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the powdered sugar, light corn syrup, clear vanilla flavoring, and almond extract.
Step 2: Add 2 tablespoons of milk to the mixture.
Step 3: Stir until the ingredients are well combined and the icing is smooth, with no visible lumps. If the icing is too thick, add the remaining tablespoon of milk, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. If the icing is too runny, add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it thickens.
Step 4: Evenly divide the icing between 4 small bowls.
Step 5: Add 3-5 drops of gel food coloring to the icing in each of the separate bowls. Stir until the color is evenly distributed.
Step 6: Transfer each color of icing into individual quart-size Ziploc bags or piping bags. If using Ziploc bags, snip a tiny corner off one end of the bag.
Step 7: Decorate your sugar cookies with the icing.
Step 8: Allow the iced cookies to sit for 12-24 hours to allow the icing to set and harden fully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and simple ingredients, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Customizable: The icing can be easily customized with a variety of gel food colors and flavor extracts to suit your preferences.
- Perfect Consistency: The icing dries to a smooth, hard finish, making it ideal for decorating cookies that look as good as they taste.
- Versatile: Suitable for all types of sugar cookies and occasions, from holiday baking to everyday treats.
- Delicious Taste: The combination of vanilla and almond extract creates a delightful flavor that complements the sweetness of the sugar cookies.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the decorated sugar cookies as a festive treat during holidays or special occasions.
- Package them in decorative boxes or bags as homemade gifts.
- Arrange them on a platter for a visually appealing dessert display.
- Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot cocoa for a cozy snack.
- Use them as party favors or as part of a dessert table at events.
Tips:
- Use gel food coloring instead of liquid food coloring to avoid diluting the icing and affecting its consistency.
- If the icing becomes too runny, add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it thickens.
- If the icing becomes too thick, add more milk, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Store the iced cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness.
- For a smoother finish, sift the powdered sugar before using it to remove any lumps.
- Use piping bags or Ziploc bags with a small corner cut off for precise decorating.
- Allow the iced cookies to dry completely before stacking them to prevent the icing from smudging.
- Experiment with different flavor extracts, such as lemon, orange, or peppermint, to create unique icing variations.
- Add sprinkles, edible glitter, or other decorations to the icing before it sets for an extra touch of fun.
- Make a large batch of icing and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring to room temperature and stir well before using.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes (+ 12-24 hours for setting)
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 75 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 1 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 1 mg
- Sodium: 3 mg
- Potassium: 3 mg
- Sugar: 19 g
- Vitamin A: 3 IU
- Calcium: 3 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
Conclusion
This sugar cookie icing recipe is a must-have for any baker looking to create beautifully decorated and delicious sugar cookies. Its simplicity, versatility, and foolproof nature make it a reliable choice for all your baking needs. Whether you’re decorating for the holidays, a special event, or just for fun, this icing will elevate your sugar cookies to the next level. Enjoy the process of creating edible works of art that are sure to impress and delight!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
- Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel food coloring?
- It is highly recommended to use gel food coloring instead of liquid food coloring. Liquid food coloring can dilute the icing, changing its consistency and potentially preventing it from setting properly. Gel food coloring provides vibrant colors without altering the icing’s texture.
- How do I store the iced cookies?
- Store the iced cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their freshness and prevent the icing from becoming sticky. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as the moisture can cause the icing to soften.
- Can I make the icing ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make the icing ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before using, bring the icing to room temperature and stir well to ensure a smooth consistency.
- What if my icing is too thick or too thin?
- If the icing is too thick, add more milk, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. If the icing is too thin, add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it thickens. Be sure to stir well after each addition to ensure the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Can I use different extracts for flavoring?
- Yes, you can experiment with different flavor extracts to customize the icing. Vanilla and almond extract are commonly used, but you can also try lemon, orange, peppermint, or other extracts to create unique flavor combinations. Just be sure to use extracts sparingly, as a little goes a long way.
