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A flat lay of the simple ingredients for confectioners' sugar glaze: powdered sugar, butter, milk, and vanilla.

Powdered Sugar Frosting (The Easiest 5-Minute Recipe)

This quick and easy Powdered Sugar Frosting recipe comes together in just 5 minutes with 4 simple ingredients. Get a perfectly smooth, creamy, and versatile vanilla frosting for cakes, cookies, and cinnamon rolls every time!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 2 cups
Course: Dessert, Topping
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter softened to room temperature
  • 2 cups Powdered Sugar sifted to remove lumps
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
  • 2-3 tablespoons Milk or Heavy Cream as needed for consistency
  • 1/8 teaspoon Salt optional, to balance sweetness

Equipment

  • 1 Electric mixer Handheld or stand mixer
  • 1 Mixing Bowl

Instructions
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.
  2. Add the sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix on low speed until the sugar is incorporated.
  3. Increase speed to medium-high and beat for 2-3 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth.
  4. Add milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each, until you reach the desired consistency.

Notes

Sift Your Sugar: For the smoothest possible frosting, don't skip sifting the powdered sugar.
Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is properly softened to room temperature for a creamy, non-lumpy base.
Adjust as Needed: Easily tweak the consistency by adding more milk (to thin) or more powdered sugar (to thicken).
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