Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups powdered sugar: This is the base of your icing, providing sweetness and a smooth texture. Powdered sugar, also known as confectioner’s sugar, dissolves easily, ensuring a glossy finish.
- 2 tablespoons milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free option): Milk helps achieve the right consistency for your icing. You can experiment with different types of milk, including soy or oat milk, to suit dietary preferences.
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup: This ingredient is crucial as it adds shine to the icing and helps it harden properly, making your designs durable.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: This adds a subtle flavor that enhances the sweetness of the icing. Feel free to experiment with other extracts like almond or lemon for different flavor profiles.
- Food coloring (optional for added flair): Food coloring allows you to customize your icing to match any theme or occasion, making your cookies visually appealing.
Instructions
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. The consistency should be similar to that of a thick glaze. If the mixture is too clumpy, using a sifter for the powdered sugar can help ensure a silky texture. - Add Corn Syrup and Vanilla
Stir in the light corn syrup and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the icing is well combined and glossy. The corn syrup not only adds a beautiful sheen but also contributes to the icing’s ability to harden effectively without cracking. - Divide and Add Color (Optional)
If you wish to add color to your icing, divide it into separate bowls and incorporate a few drops of food coloring into each. Stir until the color is uniformly distributed. For a more intense color, you can add additional drops gradually. Gel food coloring is often preferred for its vibrant hues and ease of use. - Decorate Your Cookies
Transfer the icing into a piping bag or use a knife to spread it over your cookies. For intricate designs, a piping bag with different nozzles can be highly effective. If you’re looking to create a smooth, even layer, a small offset spatula works wonders for spreading. - Allow Icing to Harden
Let the decorated cookies sit at room temperature for at least 6 hours. This drying time is crucial for the icing to harden completely, ensuring your designs remain intact. For faster drying, you can place the cookies in a cool, dry area, away from humidity.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 normal portion
- Calories: 50 kcal
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g