Can You Use Cake Frosting for Sugar Cookies? The Sweet Truth

The world of baking is a delightful playground of flavors, textures, and endless possibilities. When it comes to decorating, the choice of frosting can significantly impact the final result. A common question among home bakers and seasoned pros alike is: can you use cake frosting for sugar cookies? The short answer is yes, you absolutely can. However, there’s much more to consider to ensure your sugar cookies look and taste their best. Let’s delve into the nuances of frosting selection, application techniques, and recipes to guide you on your sugar cookie decorating journey.

Understanding the Differences Between Cake Frosting and Cookie Icing

While both are sweet coatings, cake frosting and cookie icing differ significantly in their composition, consistency, and intended use. Understanding these differences is crucial for choosing the right option for your sugar cookies.

Cake Frosting: Richness and Texture

Cake frosting is typically richer and thicker than cookie icing. It is designed to adhere to the porous surface of a cake and provide a creamy, flavorful complement. The primary types of cake frostings include:

• Buttercream: Made with butter, powdered sugar, and liquid (such as milk or cream), buttercream is known for its smooth, rich flavor. It’s ideal for piping detailed decorations and holds its shape well.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Combining cream cheese with butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla, cream cheese frosting offers a tangy twist and a slightly softer texture than buttercream.
• Whipped Cream Frosting: Light and airy, whipped cream frosting is made from heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. It’s best used immediately, as it can deflate over time.
• Ganache: A decadent mixture of chocolate and cream, ganache can be used as a glaze or whipped into a frosting.

These frostings are formulated to be applied in thicker layers, providing a smooth, opaque finish on cakes. Their consistency allows for sculpting, piping intricate designs, and creating a visually appealing dessert.

Cookie Icing: Flow and Finish

Cookie icing, on the other hand, is designed to create a smooth, even coating on sugar cookies. The two main types are:

• Royal Icing: Made with powdered sugar, meringue powder (or egg whites), and water, royal icing dries to a hard, glossy finish. It’s the go-to choice for intricate designs, outlining, and flooding cookies.
• Glaze Icing: A simple mixture of powdered sugar and liquid (such as milk, water, or lemon juice), glaze icing dries to a softer, slightly translucent finish. It’s easy to make and ideal for a quick, all-over coating.

Cookie icings are formulated to spread easily, creating a smooth surface. Royal icing, in particular, allows for precise details and intricate patterns, while glaze icing offers a simpler, more rustic look.

Key Differences Summarized

To further illustrate the differences, consider this comparison:

When Cake Frosting Works (and Doesn’t) for Sugar Cookies

Deciding whether cake frosting is suitable for your sugar cookies depends on the desired outcome and the type of frosting you’re using.

Buttercream: A Viable Option

Buttercream frosting can be a delightful choice for sugar cookies, especially if you prefer a soft, creamy texture. It’s excellent for spreading a simple layer of frosting and adding sprinkles or other decorations. However, it’s not ideal for intricate designs or flooding. Buttercream tends to be too soft and doesn’t dry hard, making it difficult to create sharp lines or complex patterns.

Tips for using buttercream on sugar cookies:

• Choose a stiffer buttercream recipe: American buttercream, made with a higher ratio of powdered sugar to butter, will hold its shape better than other types.
• Chill the cookies: Refrigerating the frosted cookies will help the buttercream set slightly, preventing it from becoming too sticky.
• Keep it simple: Opt for basic designs like spreading the frosting evenly and adding sprinkles or candies.

Cream Cheese Frosting: A Tangy Treat

Cream cheese frosting can add a delicious tang to your sugar cookies. Like buttercream, it’s best suited for spreading a simple layer of frosting. However, it’s even softer than buttercream, so it’s essential to chill the frosted cookies thoroughly.

Considerations for using cream cheese frosting:

• Use a cold cream cheese: Starting with cold cream cheese will help the frosting maintain its shape.
• Don’t overbeat: Overbeating can soften the frosting. Mix until just combined.
• Refrigerate immediately: Cream cheese frosting is perishable and should be refrigerated promptly.

Other Cake Frostings: Proceed with Caution

Whipped cream frosting is generally not recommended for sugar cookies, as it tends to be too delicate and deflates quickly. Ganache can be used as a glaze if thinned with cream, but it’s not suitable for detailed decorations due to its rich, heavy texture.

When to Avoid Cake Frosting

Cake frosting is generally not the best choice for sugar cookies when:

• You want intricate designs: Royal icing is far superior for creating detailed patterns and flooding cookies.
• You need a hard, dry finish: Cake frosting remains soft and can be sticky, making it unsuitable for stacking or packaging.
• You’re looking for a long shelf life: Cake frosting is more perishable than cookie icing and requires refrigeration.

Adapting Cake Frosting for Sugar Cookies

If you’re set on using cake frosting for your sugar cookies, there are ways to adapt it to make it more suitable. The key is to adjust the consistency and stability of the frosting.

Adjusting Consistency

To make cake frosting more manageable for sugar cookies, you can:

• Add more powdered sugar: This will thicken the frosting and make it easier to spread. Add it gradually, mixing well after each addition, until you reach the desired consistency.
• Chill the frosting: Refrigerating the frosting for 30 minutes to an hour can help it firm up, making it easier to work with.
• Use cornstarch: A small amount of cornstarch can help absorb excess moisture and thicken the frosting.

Stabilizing the Frosting

To prevent cake frosting from becoming too soft or melting, consider these tips:

• Use shortening: Replacing some of the butter with shortening can help stabilize the frosting, especially in warm weather.
• Add meringue powder: A small amount of meringue powder can help the frosting hold its shape and prevent it from becoming too sticky.
• Avoid overmixing: Overmixing can incorporate air into the frosting, making it less stable.

Simple Buttercream Recipe for Sugar Cookies

This recipe is designed to create a slightly stiffer buttercream that’s suitable for spreading on sugar cookies.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2-4 tablespoons milk or cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of milk or cream and the vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
4. If the frosting is too thick, add more milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
5. Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
6. Beat the frosting for another minute until light and fluffy.

Applying Cake Frosting to Sugar Cookies: Techniques and Tips

The way you apply cake frosting to sugar cookies can make a big difference in the final result. Here are some techniques and tips to help you achieve a professional-looking finish.

Spreading

The simplest method is to spread the frosting evenly over the cookies using a spatula or knife. This is ideal for buttercream and cream cheese frostings.

• Use an offset spatula: An offset spatula makes it easier to spread the frosting smoothly and evenly.
• Dip the spatula in warm water: This will help the frosting glide more easily.
• Work quickly: Cake frosting tends to dry out quickly, so it’s best to work efficiently.

Piping

While cake frosting isn’t ideal for intricate piping, you can still create simple designs using a piping bag and tips.

• Use a large round tip: This is perfect for creating dots, swirls, and other basic shapes.
• Practice on parchment paper: Before decorating your cookies, practice your piping skills on a sheet of parchment paper.
• Apply even pressure: Consistent pressure is key to creating uniform designs.

Decorating Ideas

Here are some simple decorating ideas for sugar cookies using cake frosting:

• Sprinkles: Add a generous layer of sprinkles for a festive touch.
• Candies: Arrange small candies, such as M&Ms or chocolate chips, on the frosting.
• Edible glitter: Dust the frosting with edible glitter for a shimmering effect.
• Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts on the frosting for added texture and flavor.

Royal Icing: The Gold Standard for Sugar Cookie Decoration

While cake frosting can work in certain situations, royal icing remains the gold standard for decorating sugar cookies. Its versatility, durability, and ability to create intricate designs make it the preferred choice for professional bakers and home enthusiasts alike.

Why Royal Icing Reigns Supreme

Royal icing offers several advantages over cake frosting:

• Smooth, Hard Finish: Royal icing dries to a smooth, hard finish that’s ideal for stacking, packaging, and shipping cookies.
• Intricate Designs: Its consistency allows for precise detailing, outlining, and flooding, making it possible to create complex patterns and designs.
• Versatility: Royal icing can be tinted with food coloring to create a wide range of colors, allowing for endless creative possibilities.
• Long Shelf Life: Royal icing cookies can be stored at room temperature for several weeks, making them ideal for gifts and parties.

Royal Icing Recipe and Techniques

Here’s a basic royal icing recipe and some techniques to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons meringue powder
• 6-8 tablespoons warm water

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and meringue powder.
2. Add 6 tablespoons of warm water and beat with an electric mixer on low speed until combined.
3. Gradually add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
4. Beat on medium speed for 5-7 minutes, until the icing is stiff and glossy.

Consistency is key to working with royal icing. You’ll need different consistencies for outlining and flooding.

• Outlining Consistency: This should be thick enough to hold its shape but still be pliable. It should resemble toothpaste.
• Flooding Consistency: This should be thin enough to spread easily but not so thin that it runs off the edges of the cookie. It should resemble shampoo.

To adjust the consistency, add more powdered sugar to thicken the icing or more water to thin it.

Flooding with Royal Icing: A Step-by-Step Guide

Flooding is a technique used to create a smooth, even base on sugar cookies. Here’s how to do it:

1. Outline the cookie: Using a piping bag fitted with a small round tip, outline the edges of the cookie with outlining consistency royal icing.
2. Flood the cookie: Fill the center of the outlined cookie with flooding consistency royal icing.
3. Use a scribe tool: Use a scribe tool or toothpick to smooth out the icing and pop any air bubbles.
4. Let it dry: Allow the icing to dry completely, which can take several hours or overnight.

Once the base layer is dry, you can add additional details using outlining consistency royal icing.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Frosting for Your Sugar Cookies

Ultimately, the choice of frosting for your sugar cookies depends on your personal preferences and the desired outcome. While cake frosting can be a viable option for a simple, creamy topping, royal icing remains the best choice for creating intricate designs and achieving a professional-looking finish. Experiment with different techniques and recipes to find what works best for you. Happy baking!

Can I use cake frosting on sugar cookies?

Cake frosting can be used on sugar cookies, but it’s important to understand the differences between cake frosting and frosting specifically designed for sugar cookies. Cake frosting is generally softer and creamier, formulated to adhere to cakes and provide a moist texture. While it will add sweetness and flavor to your sugar cookies, the aesthetic result may not be what you expect if you’re aiming for a smooth, decorative finish.

The main concern is that cake frosting tends to spread easily and may not hold intricate designs. It also takes longer to set completely, increasing the risk of smudging or losing its shape. For a more polished and stable result on sugar cookies, consider using royal icing or a buttercream frosting specifically formulated for decorating cookies. These options are designed to dry harder and hold their shape better, making them ideal for detailed designs and preventing a sticky or messy outcome.

What are the pros of using cake frosting on sugar cookies?

One advantage of using cake frosting on sugar cookies is its readily available nature. If you already have leftover cake frosting, it can be a convenient way to add sweetness and a touch of flavor to your sugar cookies without having to make a separate batch of icing. This can save time and effort, especially if you’re not aiming for elaborate decorations and simply want a quick and easy topping.

Another benefit is the soft and creamy texture of cake frosting, which can complement the crispness of sugar cookies. The contrast in textures can be quite enjoyable for some. Additionally, for those who prefer a less sweet or less firm frosting, cake frosting may be a good alternative, as it tends to be lighter in consistency compared to traditional sugar cookie icing like royal icing.

What are the cons of using cake frosting on sugar cookies?

The primary drawback of using cake frosting on sugar cookies is its tendency to be too soft and unstable. Cake frosting is designed to stay moist and creamy on a cake, which means it will not dry hard on a sugar cookie. This can lead to a messy final product, as the frosting is prone to smudging, sticking, and losing its shape.

Furthermore, cake frosting often lacks the structural integrity required for detailed decorations. It’s difficult to create intricate designs or outlines with cake frosting, as it spreads easily and doesn’t hold its form well. This can be particularly frustrating if you’re aiming for a professional or polished look. For best results, it’s recommended to use icing specifically formulated for sugar cookies, such as royal icing or a stiffer buttercream.

Will cake frosting dry hard on sugar cookies?

Generally, cake frosting will not dry hard on sugar cookies in the same way that royal icing or cookie-specific buttercream would. Cake frostings are formulated to retain moisture and stay soft on cakes, which is why they tend to remain somewhat sticky and pliable even after extended periods. The sugar content and fat content also contribute to its non-hardening nature.

While the surface of cake frosting might develop a slight crust, it will not achieve the firm, matte finish of royal icing. This means that the frosting remains susceptible to smudging, fingerprint marks, and attracting dust or debris. If you desire a hard, dry finish that allows for stacking and easier handling of decorated sugar cookies, you should opt for royal icing or a specific sugar cookie icing recipe.

How can I make cake frosting work better on sugar cookies?

If you decide to use cake frosting on sugar cookies, there are a few techniques to help improve its performance. First, consider chilling the frosted cookies in the refrigerator. The cold temperature can help the frosting firm up slightly, reducing its stickiness and preventing excessive spreading. However, be aware that condensation may form on the frosting as the cookies warm back up to room temperature.

Another tip is to apply the frosting in a very thin, even layer. Using too much frosting will only exacerbate the spreading issue. You can also dust the frosting lightly with powdered sugar after applying it, which can help to absorb some of the moisture and create a slightly firmer surface. Finally, avoid stacking the cookies until the frosting has had ample time to set, even if it doesn’t fully harden.

What are the best alternatives to cake frosting for sugar cookies?

The most popular and reliable alternative to cake frosting for sugar cookies is royal icing. Royal icing dries to a hard, smooth finish, making it ideal for detailed decorations and allowing you to stack the cookies without smudging. It can be easily colored and piped into intricate designs, creating a professional and polished look.

Another excellent option is a buttercream frosting specifically formulated for sugar cookies. These buttercreams are typically made with a higher ratio of powdered sugar to butter, resulting in a stiffer consistency that holds its shape well. They can also be flavored and colored like royal icing, offering a delicious and visually appealing alternative that’s often preferred for its softer bite compared to royal icing.

Can I color cake frosting to use on sugar cookies?

Yes, you can definitely color cake frosting to use on sugar cookies. Gel food coloring is the best choice for this, as it’s highly concentrated and won’t add excess liquid to the frosting, which could alter its consistency. Start with a small amount of gel color and gradually add more until you achieve your desired shade, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

Avoid using liquid food coloring, as it can make the frosting too thin and runny, exacerbating any spreading issues. Powdered food coloring can also be used, but it’s important to dissolve it in a small amount of liquid before adding it to the frosting to prevent graininess. Remember that the color of the frosting will deepen slightly as it sits, so it’s best to err on the side of a lighter shade initially.