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Smooth white buttercream frosting for sugar cookies in a piping bag

Bakery-Perfect Buttercream Frosting for Sugar Cookies

Achieve bakery-quality buttercream frosting with this easy-to-follow recipe, perfect for decorating sugar cookies. The secret ingredient, light corn syrup, helps create a smooth, stable, and shiny finish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Buttercream Frosting
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 4 cups powdered sugar (confectioners' sugar), sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk (or heavy cream)
  • Pinch salt
  • 1 tablespoon light corn syrup

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • Spatula (for scraping)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy, then scrape down the sides.
  2. Gradually add half of the sifted powdered sugar on low speed until combined, then add the remaining sugar and mix until fully incorporated.
  3. Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt; slowly drizzle in 1-2 tablespoons of milk or cream until the frosting comes together.
  4. Add 1 tablespoon of light corn syrup, then beat on medium-high for 3-5 minutes to incorporate air, create a smooth texture, and add sheen.
  5. Adjust consistency by adding more milk teaspoon by teaspoon if too thick, or a tablespoon or two of powdered sugar if too thin.
  6. For colored frosting, divide into bowls and add gel food coloring sparingly, mixing to achieve the desired shade.

Notes

For best results, ensure your butter is truly at room temperature. Use gel food coloring for vibrant colors without altering frosting consistency.