Cookie Icing That Hardens Recipe
Introduction
Cookie icing that hardens is perfect for decorating your favorite cookies with a smooth, glossy finish that sets firm. This simple recipe creates a sweet, durable icing ideal for holiday treats and special occasions.

Ingredients
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons light corn syrup
- 5 tablespoons warm water
- Food coloring (as desired)
Instructions
- Step 1: Sift the powdered sugar into a medium to large mixing bowl to remove any lumps.
- Step 2: Add the warm water, light corn syrup, and vanilla extract to the powdered sugar.
- Step 3: Stir the mixture thoroughly with a spatula until the icing is smooth and uniform in texture.
- Step 4: Divide the icing into smaller bowls if desired, then add food coloring to each bowl to achieve your preferred shades.
Tips & Variations
- Use a squeeze bottle or piping bag for precise decorating and cleaner designs.
- If your icing is too thick, add a few drops of water at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- For a shinier finish, use clear corn syrup instead of light corn syrup.
- Store any unused icing in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Storage
Store leftover icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If it thickens, stir in a small amount of warm water to loosen it. Decorated cookies should be allowed to dry completely at room temperature; once hardened, they can be stored in an airtight container.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
How long does it take for the icing to harden?
The icing typically hardens within 1 to 2 hours at room temperature, depending on thickness and humidity.
Can I use this icing for other desserts besides cookies?
Yes, this icing works well for decorating cupcakes, cakes, and other baked goods where a firm, glossy finish is desired.
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Cookie Icing That Hardens Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Enough to ice approximately 24 medium-sized cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cookie Icing recipe creates a smooth, glossy icing that hardens perfectly to decorate cookies with vibrant colors. Made with powdered sugar, vanilla, corn syrup, and water, it is easy to prepare and ideal for crafting beautifully finished cookies for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups Powdered Sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2 teaspoons Light Corn Syrup
- 5 tablespoons Warm Water
- Food Coloring (as desired)
Instructions
- Sift Powdered Sugar: Sift the powdered sugar into a medium to large mixing bowl to remove any lumps and ensure a silky smooth icing base.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the warm water, light corn syrup, and vanilla extract into the bowl with the powdered sugar.
- Mix Icing: Stir the ingredients vigorously with a spatula until the icing is completely smooth, glossy, and uniform in consistency without any lumps.
- Add Food Coloring: Divide the icing into smaller bowls as needed and add food coloring to each portion, mixing well to achieve the desired color shade for decorating.
Notes
- Use warm water to help dissolve the powdered sugar more easily and create a smooth texture.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more powdered sugar to thicken or a little more water to thin.
- Allow decorated cookies to dry at room temperature for at least 4 hours or overnight for the icing to harden completely.
- Store unused icing in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cookie icing, royal icing alternative, hardening icing, decorating cookies, powdered sugar icing

