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Simple Vanilla Frosting
“Not everyone likes cream cheese frosting, what else can I use?” It's a common follow-up once people move past their first batch.
This is the frosting from our pillar cinnamon roll recipe, written up on its own: a thinner, sweeter glaze that sets up slightly as it cools, rather than the thick, tangy cream cheese style. It whisks together in one bowl in under five minutes.
- Prep
- 5 min
- Yield
- About 1 cup (enough to drizzle 12 rolls)
Ingredients
Frosting
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 3–4 tbsp whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Instructions
- Whisk the powdered sugar and salt together in a bowl to break up any lumps.
- Add the milk one tablespoon at a time, whisking after each addition, until the glaze is smooth and pourable but not watery.
- Whisk in the vanilla. Drizzle over warm rolls immediately, or let it sit a few minutes to thicken slightly for a heavier coat.
Baker's tips
For a citrus twist without the full orange version, whisk in a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest along with the vanilla.
Want something closer to bakery-style? Try our cream cheese frosting instead.
Get the cream cheese frosting recipe
Questions about this recipe
- Why is my glaze too thin?
- You've added too much milk relative to sugar. Whisk in an extra couple tablespoons of powdered sugar to thicken it back up.
- Can I use water instead of milk?
- Yes, though milk or cream gives a slightly richer flavor and a touch of the body cream cheese frosting has. Water works fine in a pinch.
- How far ahead can I make this?
- Make it right before serving if possible; it starts to set within 15–20 minutes. If you need to prep ahead, cover it tightly and re-whisk in a splash of milk before using.