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Realistic close-up of sugar cookie frosting that hardens on decorated sugar cookies stacked on a warm wooden table.
Linda

Sugar Cookie Frosting That Hardens (Perfect for Decorating + Stacking)

This sugar cookie frosting is a professional-grade crusting buttercream that offers a rich, buttery flavor while developing a firm outer shell. It is specifically designed to be stackable with parchment paper, making it ideal for holiday cookie boxes and bake sales.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Hardening Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 145
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Frosting Ingredients
  • 1 cup Unsalted butter softened to room temperature (approx. 65°F)
  • 4 cups Powdered sugar confectioners' sugar, sifted
  • 2-3 tablespoons Heavy cream or milk heavy cream preferred for stability
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract use clear vanilla for a pure white finish
  • 1/8 teaspoon Fine sea salt to balance sweetness
  • Gel food coloring optional; do not use liquid drops

Equipment

  • Stand mixer or hand mixer
  • Sifter
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Method
 

  1. Cream the butter: In a large bowl, beat softened butter for 2–3 minutes until it turns pale and fluffy.
  2. Add sugar and flavorings: Gradually add sifted powdered sugar one cup at a time on low speed. Mix in the vanilla extract and fine sea salt.
  3. Adjust consistency: Add heavy cream 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired texture (stiffer for piping, thinner for dipping).
  4. Smooth the frosting: Use a rubber spatula to hand-stir the frosting for 1 minute to remove air bubbles for a smooth finish.
  5. Decorate and set: Decorate completely cooled cookies. Allow them to sit in a cool, dry place for 1–3 hours to crust, or up to 8 hours for full stackability.

Notes

  • Stacking Tip: Always place parchment paper between layers of frosted cookies once the top is dry to the touch.
  • Storage: Store at room temperature for 2-3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Humidity: High humidity will slow the drying process; use a small fan to speed up evaporation if needed.