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Close-up of elegant frosted sugar cookies topped with swirled teal buttercream and delicate white sprinkles.

Dreamy Sugar Cookie Buttercream Frosting

This enchanting buttercream frosting perfectly captures the nostalgic flavor of classic sugar cookies, boasting a smooth texture and delightful vanilla-almond notes. It's an irresistible topping for cakes, cupcakes, and various baked goods.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 24 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature (2 sticks or 226g)
  • 4 cups powdered sugar sifted
  • 3-4 tbsp heavy cream or whole milk cold
  • 1.5 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 0.5 tsp almond extract (this is key for sugar cookie flavor)
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Equipment

  • Stand Mixer (or handheld electric mixer)
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Rubber spatula
  • Fine-Mesh Sieve (for sifting powdered sugar)
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Method
 

Prepare the Butter
  1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a large bowl and a handheld electric mixer), beat the softened unsalted butter on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until it is light, creamy, and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula.
Add Powdered Sugar
  1. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated after each addition. Once all the sugar is added, increase the speed to medium-low and beat for another 1-2 minutes to ensure it's well combined and starting to smooth out.
Incorporate Flavor and Liquid
  1. Add 3 tablespoons of the cold heavy cream (or milk), pure vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt to the mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined.
Whip to Perfection
  1. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3-5 minutes. The frosting will become noticeably lighter in color, incredibly fluffy, and smooth. If the frosting appears too thick, add the remaining tablespoon of cream, one teaspoon at a time, until your desired consistency is reached. If it's too thin, add a tablespoon or two more of sifted powdered sugar.
  2. Give the bowl a final scrape down and a quick whip on medium speed to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed and the frosting is perfectly smooth and airy.

Notes

Storage: This Sugar Cookie Buttercream Frosting can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If refrigerating, bring it back to room temperature and re-whip it for a few minutes before using to restore its fluffy texture. For an extra festive touch, gently fold in 1/4 cup of your favorite sprinkles at the very end.