• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

The Short Order Cook

menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • Food & Fun
  • Travel & Dining
  • Meet Angela
  • Work with Me
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • Food & Fun
    • Travel & Dining
    • Meet Angela
    • Work with Me
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • ×

    Home » Holidays

    Published: Dec 3, 2020 · Modified: Nov 11, 2022 by Angela · This post may contain affiliate links · 28 Comments

    Easy Shiny Cookie Icing (that hardens)

    Jump to Recipe

    This quick and easy shiny cookie icing is perfect for sugar, gingerbread, oatmeal, shortbread, and your favorite cutout cookies. This homemade recipe will hardens as it dries and has a beautiful glossy appearance. It is so pretty and great tasting with sweet powdered sugar and a hint of vanilla. It makes great colored icing for not just cookies but other desserts too.

    This recipe is similar to royal icing except it does not have egg whites or meringue powder. Instead, it uses corn syrup to ensure it hardens. Since this powdered sugar cookie glaze is set firm and hardens when it dries, it is perfect for use when making a lot of holiday cookies.   It is easy to work with and since it hardens, you can make a lot of cookies at once that can be stored without the worry of them sticking to one another.

     

    Easy Cookie Icing on decorated cookies
    Easy Cookie Icing on decorated cookies

    Whenever you want to frost and decorate cookies, this is the best icing.  It pairs perfectly with my CHOCOLATE GINGERBREAD COOKIES - they are to die for with all the spice of gingerbread but with rich cocoa too. You can stack the cookies once dry to store or to plate with other desserts you may be sharing or giving as Christmas gifts.

    I find this homemade cookie icing is perfect also for Valentine's Day, Easter, Independence Day, or other holidays when decorating your favorite sugar cookies, pies, brownies, or other desserts is a tradition. I have used this to drizzle over my Cinnamon Roll Pie for extra frosting and OMG! This is not a thick frosting, buttercream, or one of the many other types of cookie icings.

    Jump to:
    • Simple Ingredients for Cookie Icing
    • How to Make Homemade Icing that Hardens
    • Cookie Icing with Confectioners Powdered Sugar
    • Add Food Coloring to Cookie Icing
    • Decorate Holiday Cookies
    • Easiest Cookies Ever
    • Substitutions & Variations
    • Storing Cookie Icing
    • PIN FOR SAFEKEEPING & SHARING!
    • FAQ
    • Easy Shiny Cookie Icing (that hardens)

    Simple Ingredients for Cookie Icing

    There are only 4 ingredients in this homemade cookie frosting recipe.  Most of them your pantry probably already has.   If you want to make this icing vegan or dairy-free, you can substitute the milk for water and it will still work and be delicious. This icing recipe is gluten-free, nut-free, and vegetarian.

    Easy Cookie Icing ingredients
    Easy Cookie Icing ingredients
    • Powdered Confectioner's Sugar (icing sugar)
    • Whole Milk
    • Light Corn Syrup
    • Vanilla Extract
    • Gel Food Coloring - optional

    How to Make Homemade Icing that Hardens

    The key to making cookie icing/frosting that hardens is the Karo corn syrup. When you make this recipe with light corn syrup, the icing will harden in about an hour.  It makes it so the cookies can be stacked, stored, or kept together without worrying that your pretty designs will get messed up.  This is ideal for when you want to make a lot and stack them on cookie platters to display or wrap them up for cookie holiday gifts.

    Cookie Icing with Confectioners Powdered Sugar

    First, sift (or use a fork to fluff and separate if you do not own a sifter) powdered sugar into a small mixing bowl. Add 4 teaspoon of milk, 2 teaspoon of corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir vigorously with a fork until the icing starts to come together.

    Easy Cookie Icing correct consistency
    Easy Cookie Icing correct consistency

    To be sure it all comes together, make sure to also use a rubber spatula to scrape down the edges. Continue to stir with a fork until it is smooth and ready to go. Then you can switch to a spoon or other utensil you may want to use to begin decorating.

    • If needed, add additional milk or water to thin the icing. It will be the correct consistency if it slowly drips from a spoon or fork as you tip it.
    Easy Cookie Icing drizzle icing on cookies
    Easy Cookie Icing drizzle icing on cookies

    Add Food Coloring to Cookie Icing

    For colored icing, separate a bit of plain white icing into small bowls and add drops of gel food coloring and mix thoroughly to combine. Add additional coloring for deeper/darker colors as desired.  I recommend a gel food coloring for this so the additional liquid from food coloring drops doesn't react with the base recipe which may cause it not to harden as well.

    Easy Cookie Icing optional coloring
    Easy Cookie Icing optional coloring

    Decorate Holiday Cookies

    The fun of baking during the holidays is more than just how tasty it all is.  Being creative to decorate any cookie cutter shapes with fun colors or even sprinkles and other edible decorations is the best part. 

    This icing is great to add to cookies and other desserts in many ways. Here are some ideas on how to use & apply this icing.

    • Dip or Dunk
    • Drizzle
    • Use a Squirt Bottle
    • Use food or brand-new paintbrushes

    This icing recipe is great for any cookie.  Here are some suggestions on what cookies to put this icing on:

    • Chocolate Gingerbread
    • Cottontail Rabbit Cookies
    • Sugar Cookies
    • Oatmeal Raisin
    • Bar Cookies
    • Shortbread
    • Brownies
    • Cobblers & Pies
    • Donuts & Scones
    Easy Cookie Icing decorated on a cooling rack
    Easy Cookie Icing decorated on a cooling rack

    Easiest Cookies Ever

    Ok cheater TOP TIP HERE! This icing recipe is amazing on store-bought cookie dough. To save time, buy the rolled sugar cookie dough in the refrigerator section. Roll, cut, & bake them up. And in no time they are ready to be iced & decorated. This is my TOP TIP for the holiday season when you have baked a lot and want one more yummy Christmas cookie for an exchange or platter. Shhh, don't tell others my secret!

    Substitutions & Variations

    Here are some small alternatives and changes you can make to the recipe if needed. Besides adding gel food coloring to make pretty colors, here are some ideas.

    • Whole Milk - replace with water to have a dairy-free & vegan cookie icing, you will likely need more sugar since water is not at thick as whole milk.
    • Vanilla - replace the extract with almond, peppermint, or lemon extract for a fun tasty twist.

    Storing Cookie Icing

    This icing can be left out at room temperature for a few hours while decorating and baking. It will not harden if you are constantly stirring and using it. But once it is left untouched for a while, it will set up. Which is good, because that is what you want your cookies to do.

    I suggest only making as much as you will use for that day of baking. This is so easy to make, no need to make a large batch ahead of time. If you do have leftovers, store them in an air-tight container on your counter for 1-2 days. To soften it up again, add a bit more corn syrup and milk - a few drops at a time and stir.

    PIN FOR SAFEKEEPING & SHARING!

    Easy Cookie Icing PIN
    Easy Cookie Icing PIN

    FAQ

    Here are some ideas, questions, and troubleshooting answers when making icing. This cookie icing recipe is easy but sometimes it may stump a new baker. So I hope this helps you out and if not, send me a comment and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

    Why is the icing thin and watery?

    Each brand of whole milk or powdered sugar may differ in consistency or thickness. First off make sure you are using whole milk, that is what the measurements call for to ensure a good consistency.

    If the icing is too thin, add a ½ tablespoon more powdered sugar at a time and mix. Continue until you have the thickness you desire.

    What is the easiest way to frost cookies?

    My favorite way to frost a cookie quickly is to dip it into the bowl of icing. Dip it gently and then twist and turn it to let any excess drip off. It will coat the top of the cookie so fast and beautifully.

    Does the icing need to be refrigerated?

    The cookie icing either unused or on the cookies can be at room temperature for up to 2 days. The small amount of milk in the recipe will not spoil due to all the sugars that sort of act as a short-term preservative. If for some crazy reason all the cookies are not eaten in 48 hours, refrigerate them to enjoy later.

    Will this icing harden?

    If it is made per the recipe, it will harden and set on the cookies. It will also dry shiny which is another reason I love this quick icing recipe.

    Product Recommendations for this Recipe:

    The Short Order Cook is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.  As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission on the sale at no additional cost to you. This helps with the costs of running the blog. Thank you! 

    Easy Cookie Icing featured plated cookies

    Easy Shiny Cookie Icing (that hardens)

    Angela
    This quick and easy cookie icing is perfect for sugar, gingerbread, oatmeal, shortbread, and your favorite cutout cookies. This shiny homemade recipe will get hard as it dries and has a beautiful glossy appearance.
    5 from 3 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 5 mins
    Total Time 5 mins
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine American
    Servings 18

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 & ⅔ C confectioners powdered sugar
    • 4 teaspoon whole milk
    • 2 teaspoon light corn syrup
    • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
    • gel food coloring Optional

    Instructions
     

    • Sift (or using a fork to fluff and separate) powdered sugar into a small mixing bowl.
    • Add 3 teaspoon of milk, 2 teaspoon of corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir vigorously with a fork until icing starts to come together. Using a rubber spatula to scrape down the edges. Continue to stir with a fork until it is smooth and ready to go.
    • If needed, add additional milk to thin icing more. It will be the correct consistency if it slowly drips from a spoon or fork as you tip it.
    • OPTIONAL - For colored icing, divide a bit of icing into small bowls and add drops of gel food coloring and mix thoroughly to combine. Add additional coloring for deeper/darker colors as desired.
    • The icing will thicken and start to harden if not worked with. You can mix vigorously to have it come back to life so it is easier to drip, dip, spread, or pipe onto cookies.
    Keyword baked, christmas, cookie, Easter, easy, fast, gluten-free, grain-free, Halloween, kid favorite, valentine's day

    Did you make this The Short Order Cook Recipe?

    Tag @theshortordercookblog (Instagram & Facebook) or @shortorder_cook (Twitter). 

    I would love to see your latest creations and kitchen adventures.

    « Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop #406
    Chocolate Gingerbread Cookies »

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

      Leave a Reply Cancel reply

      Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

      Recipe Rating




    1. Caroline Parrott says

      December 07, 2020 at 10:06 am

      Something I have always wondered-if you use milk in the icing, do you have to refrigerate the finished product?

      Reply
      • Angela says

        December 07, 2020 at 1:52 pm

        Thanks for the question. You can store the leftover icing in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Bring it to room temperature so it softens before you are ready to decorate. Since this hardens as it dries you may need to add a few drops more of milk to bring it back to the right consistency.

        Reply
        • Caroline Parrott says

          December 07, 2020 at 3:31 pm

          Thank you Short Order Cook. I think I was confusing with my question. Do the cookies have to be refrigerated due the milk in the icing? I always wonder this when I make icings, frostings, etc with dairy in them. Thanks again!

          Reply
          • Angela says

            December 07, 2020 at 7:48 pm

            No, the cookies do not need to be refrigerated once frosted as long as you eat them within 2 days - if they last that long! haha

            Reply
          • Barbara says

            December 13, 2020 at 2:34 pm

            Great recipe! Easy to keep handy!

            Reply
    2. Helen at the Lazy Gastronome says

      December 08, 2020 at 3:34 pm

      How can anyone turn down a gingerbread man - let alone if he's chocolate!! Thanks for sharing at the What's for Dinner party! Have a fantastic week.

      Reply
    3. Holly B says

      December 11, 2020 at 7:14 am

      5 stars
      Fantastic recipe!! I'm so excited to try this! I usually use water, not milk!

      Reply
      • Angela says

        December 11, 2020 at 11:36 am

        Glad you found a new version for homemade cooking icing.

        Reply
    4. Sabrina DeWalt says

      December 11, 2020 at 7:47 am

      I will have yo add this icing recipe to my repertoire.

      Reply
    5. Tiffany says

      December 11, 2020 at 12:34 pm

      Chocolate and Gingerbread? My two favorite Christmas time things!

      Reply
      • Angela says

        December 12, 2020 at 1:01 pm

        Great, this combination of chocolate and gingerbread will sure be your new favorite Christmas cookie - Merry Christmas and happy baking and decoring.

        Reply
    6. Jordan says

      December 11, 2020 at 12:35 pm

      This looks so yummy and easy. And now I'm in the mood to make some cookies!

      Reply
      • Angela says

        December 12, 2020 at 12:58 pm

        Happy cookie baking and I hope you have fun decorating with this icing recipe.

        Reply
    7. Chelsea says

      December 11, 2020 at 2:58 pm

      Speaking from experience, you can totally use a plant-based milk or water for the icing and it'll turn out yummy! Cookie icing is such an easy way to liven up cookies! We add them to ours every Christmas!

      Reply
      • Angela says

        December 11, 2020 at 10:37 pm

        Yes, thanks for sharing the vegan options for this recipe. Merry Christmas.

        Reply
    8. Alexis Farmer says

      December 11, 2020 at 3:31 pm

      I would totally just eat this icing lol

      Reply
    9. Suz @ TravelsWithSuz.com says

      December 11, 2020 at 9:20 pm

      That's how it's done! Excellent photos. Merry Christmas!

      Reply
      • Angela says

        December 11, 2020 at 10:34 pm

        Thank you for the kind comment. Merry Christmas to you too Suz!

        Reply
    10. Elaina says

      December 12, 2020 at 11:48 am

      I've always wondered how the bakery cookies look like this, who knew how simple it was! Can't wait to use this for our holiday cookies.

      Reply
      • Angela says

        December 12, 2020 at 12:56 pm

        This cookie icing recipe is so simple and delicious for sure.

        Reply
    11. Melissa Jones says

      December 12, 2020 at 7:26 pm

      5 stars
      Those look and sound great! I pinned it so I don't lose it!

      Reply
      • Angela says

        December 13, 2020 at 4:35 pm

        Thanks so much, Melissa for pinning this icing recipe.

        Reply
    12. Lisa Manderino says

      December 12, 2020 at 9:40 pm

      I like a homemade icing that is easy and delicious!

      Reply
      • Angela says

        December 13, 2020 at 4:34 pm

        Me too!

        Reply
    13. Marianne G says

      December 13, 2020 at 8:33 am

      Love decorating sugar cookies for Christmas! Thank you for a different spin on an icing recipe.

      Reply
      • Angela says

        December 13, 2020 at 4:34 pm

        You are welcome and have fun decorating.

        Reply
    14. Alice says

      December 13, 2020 at 6:13 pm

      5 stars
      Thank you for this great recipe! I pinned it for later.

      Reply
      • Angela says

        December 15, 2020 at 3:10 pm

        Great, thanks for pinning.

        Reply

    Primary Sidebar

    Angela the short order cook on a step stool reaching into the top kitchen cupboard.

    Hi, I'm Angela I’m Angela, a petite mom that loves to cook, eat, drink, & explore all things food. I have been cooking since I could pull up a stool to finally reach the counter. I still rely on my trusty stool every day. I am a former personal chef turned blogger that hopes you find something new & tasty to love while you are here.

    More about me →

    This site has links to products/services that may make us a commission. #ad

    Popular

    • Pasta al Forno (baked pasta) featured in a casserole dish ready to eat
      Rigatoni al Forno (Baked Pasta)
    • A set of black pots and pans.
      Best Pots & Pans for Gas Stove
    • Cast Iron Chicken Breast cooked and Sliced in the pan.
      Cast Iron Chicken Breast
    • Water in a pitcher and glass to show ounces to gallon conversion.
      How Many Ounces in a Gallon (Free Printable Charts)
    • Homemade Snickers Bars featured 5 stack
      Homemade Snickers Bars
    • Overhead of cast iron skillet with creamy coconut chicken thighs ready to top with cilantro, green onion, and hot sauce.
      Creamy Coconut Chicken 
    • A bun topped with 3-ingredient sloppy joe meat and cheese.
      3-Ingredient Sloppy Joes (Gluten-Free)
    • Best Ever Mango Ice Cream featured two bowls close mango bottom corner
      Best Ever Mango Ice Cream (with Ice Cream Maker)

    The Short Order Cook LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

    #ad The Short Order Cook LLC is an affiliate of ButcherBox. I have been a customer for years and cannot recommend it enough. Great prices & even better meat! Sign up today.

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Privacy Policy
    • Cookie Policy
    • Terms of Service
    • Disclosure Policy

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Contact

    • Contact
    • Work With Me
    • Meet Angela
    • Meet the Family

    Copyright © 2023 The Short Order Cook LLC All recipes, photos, and articles on this site are the property of The Short Order Cook LLC. You are welcome to share a photo ONLY with an accompanied do-follow link back to this site. Publishing any items as if they were your own is prohibited.

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish.AcceptReject Read Privacy Policy
    Privacy & Cookies Policy

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
    Non-necessary
    Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
    SAVE & ACCEPT