Having a good Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens is essential for any baking enthusiast, especially during the holiday season. This icing not only dries perfectly but also adds a delightful touch to your decorated treats. Whether you’re crafting festive designs or simple, sweet accents, this icing will elevate your sugar cookies for any occasion.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This icing can be prepared in just five minutes, making it perfect for last-minute decorating.
Perfectly Hardens: The icing sets well, ensuring your designs stay intact when stored or transported.
Customizable Colors: With gel food coloring, you can create vibrant shades to match any theme or celebration.
Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Christmas, birthdays, or just a fun baking day, this icing works beautifully.
Versatile Uses: Besides sugar cookies, this icing can also enhance other desserts like brownies and cupcakes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Sifter
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk or spatula
Airtight container

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl ensures you have enough room to mix all ingredients without spills.
Sifter: Sifting powdered sugar prevents lumps, resulting in a smooth icing texture.
Whisk or spatula: These tools help achieve a consistent blend while giving you control over the mixing process.

Ingredients

For the Icing

2 cup powdered sugar
1 & 1/2 tbsp corn syrup
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 & 1/2 tbsp milk or water (cold)
gel food coloring

How to Make Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by sifting the powdered sugar in a medium to large bowl.

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

Add the corn syrup, vanilla extract, and cold milk or water to the sifted sugar. Stir vigorously until the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Adjust Consistency

If necessary, add more milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency. The icing should fall slowly off the spoon while leaving a thick layer behind.

Step 4: Divide for Coloring

If you’re using multiple colors for decorating, divide the icing into smaller bowls. Add gel food coloring to each bowl as desired.

Step 5: Decorate Your Cookies

Use the prepared icing to decorate your cookies. Allow them to set at room temperature before storing them in an airtight container.

With this Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens, your cookie decorating will be easier and more enjoyable than ever!

How to Serve Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens

Serving sugar cookies decorated with icing that hardens can turn any occasion into a delightful celebration. Here are some fun serving suggestions to make your cookies shine.

Festive Platter

Arrange your iced cookies on a colorful platter for a cheerful display during holiday parties.

Cookie Jars

Fill clear jars with beautifully decorated cookies and use them as centerpieces or gifts.

Cookie Decorating Station

Set up a decorating station where guests can add their own designs using different colors of icing.

Seasonal Themes

Decorate cookies in seasonal shapes (like hearts for Valentine’s Day or pumpkins for Halloween) and serve them accordingly.

Gift Bundles

Bundle cookies in decorative bags tied with ribbons for thoughtful, homemade gifts.

Cookie Boxes

Present a selection of iced cookies in themed boxes for special occasions, making them great treats for friends and family.

How to Perfect Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens

To achieve the best results with sugar cookie icing that hardens, follow these simple tips to ensure your decorations are both beautiful and tasty.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh powdered sugar and other ingredients will help achieve the right consistency and flavor.
Control consistency: Adjust the milk or water until you reach a thick yet pourable consistency that holds its shape well.
Color carefully: When using gel food coloring, add it gradually. This helps avoid overly dark colors that may overwhelm the cookie’s flavor.
Allow proper drying time: Let your iced cookies sit at room temperature until completely dry before stacking or storing them to prevent smudging.
Store properly: Keep your decorated cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent moisture from ruining the icing.

Best Side Dishes for Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens

While sugar cookies with icing are delightful on their own, pairing them with the right side dishes can enhance any gathering. Here are some excellent options:

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a healthy balance to sweet cookies.
Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses and crackers complements the sweetness of the cookies wonderfully.
Hot Cocoa Bar: Offer various toppings like marshmallows and whipped cream alongside your sugar cookies for a cozy treat pairing.
Mini Cupcakes: These bite-sized desserts provide variety and can be decorated similarly to your sugar cookies.
Milkshake Station: Create fun milkshakes that guests can customize, serving as a perfect dip for iced cookies.
Savory Cheese Straws: These crunchy snacks provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the icing-covered cookies.
Popcorn Mixes: Sweet and salty popcorn mixes can be a whimsical side dish complementing your festive cookie spread.
Seasonal Vegetables & Dip: Offering veggies with ranch or hummus balances out the sweetness while adding freshness to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

Inaccurate measurements: Always measure your powdered sugar and liquid ingredients precisely. Too much or too little can lead to icing that doesn’t harden correctly.
Not sifting the sugar: Failing to sift the powdered sugar can result in lumps. Sifting ensures a smooth texture for your icing, making it easier to spread.
Ignoring consistency: If your icing is too runny, it won’t harden properly. Test its thickness by letting it fall from a spoon; it should leave a thick layer behind.
Using warm ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are cold before mixing. Warm liquids can alter the consistency and prevent proper hardening.
Skipping the setting time: After decorating your cookies, let the icing set at room temperature. Rushing this step can lead to smudged designs and soft icing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store remaining icing in an airtight container.
It will keep well in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Freezing Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens

Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Icing can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to use.

Reheating Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens

Oven: Preheat on low heat (around 200°F) and warm icing gently, stirring frequently until smooth.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts (10-15 seconds) on low power, stirring between intervals until desired consistency is reached.
Stovetop: Use a double boiler method to gently reheat while stirring constantly for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to color Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens?
Using gel food coloring is ideal as it mixes well without changing the icing’s consistency significantly. Add small amounts until you reach your desired shade.

How long does it take for Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens to set?
Typically, it takes about 4-6 hours at room temperature for your decorations to dry completely. For thicker layers, allow more time.

Can I make my Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the icing a week in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to reheat as needed.

Is this Sugar Cookie Icing suitable for other types of cookies?
Absolutely! This versatile icing works well on various cookies, adding a delightful finish no matter the occasion.

Final Thoughts

This Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize colors and designs, making it perfect for any occasion—from festive holidays to birthday celebrations. Give this recipe a try and enjoy decorating your cookies with fun and creativity!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens

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Author: Cara
Total Time: 0 hours
Yield: Approximately 10 servings (based on icing for about 20 cookies) 1x

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Description

Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens is a must-have for any baking enthusiast, especially during festive seasons. This easy-to-make icing not only dries to a perfect finish but also adds a delightful touch to your decorated cookies. Ideal for creating vibrant designs or elegant accents, this icing will elevate your sugar cookies for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration. With just a few simple ingredients and quick preparation, you’ll be ready to impress family and friends with beautifully decorated treats that stay intact even when stored or transported.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups powdered sugar
1½ tbsp corn syrup
½ tsp vanilla extract
1½ tbsp cold milk or water
Gel food coloring (optional)

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Instructions

Sift the powdered sugar into a mixing bowl to avoid lumps.
Add corn syrup, vanilla extract, and cold milk or water to the sifted sugar. Mix vigorously until smooth.
Adjust consistency by adding more cold liquid if necessary; aim for a thick yet pourable texture.
Divide the icing into smaller bowls for coloring if desired, adding gel food coloring gradually.
Decorate your cookies with the icing and allow them to set at room temperature before storing.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: N/A
Category: Dessert
Method: N/A
Cuisine: N/A