Description

This easy lemon icing recipe is ultra-creamy, tangy, and packed with vibrant citrus flavor, thanks to real lemon juice and zest. It comes together in just minutes, making it the perfect finish for cakes, muffins, sweet rolls, or cookies. Use it as a glaze for a glossy drizzle or a spreadable frosting—either way, it brightens up any baked treat with fresh lemon goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

Cream Cheese Base

4 oz full-fat cream cheese, at room temperature
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature

Lemon Flavor

1/2 tablespoon lemon zest (freshly grated)
1–2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (plus more as needed for consistency)

Sweetener & Aroma

1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Seasoning

Pinch of kosher salt

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Instructions

Cream the Base: In a medium bowl, mash together the room-temperature cream cheese and butter using a fork or spatula, working until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and well blended.
Add Lemon Zest: Sprinkle the lemon zest over the creamed mixture and mash or stir it in thoroughly. This helps release the natural oils from the zest, infusing the icing with a powerful fresh citrus aroma.
Mix in Powdered Sugar & Salt: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and the pinch of kosher salt in three additions. Mix well after each addition, ensuring the mixture remains smooth and lump-free. The icing will begin to thicken and look glossy.
Add Vanilla: Pour in the vanilla extract and stir to fully combine, balancing the tartness with subtle sweetness and aroma.
Adjust Consistency with Lemon Juice: Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 tablespoon at a time, stirring after each addition. For drizzling, use a bit more juice for a thinner glaze; for spreading, use less for a thicker, creamy texture. Stop when you reach your preferred consistency.
Store or Serve: Use the icing immediately over cooled cakes, muffins, or pastries. If making ahead, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Let it come to room temperature and stir before using, adding a splash of lemon juice if needed to loosen.

Notes

For extra tang, use more lemon juice or zest.
If your icing is too thick, add additional lemon juice (or a teaspoon of milk if you want less tartness).
The icing sets best when poured over completely cooled baked goods.
For a dairy-free or vegan version, substitute vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese.
Always sift powdered sugar for silky-smooth icing.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Sauces-condiments
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Calories: 90
Sugar: 11g
Sodium: 30mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 15mg