Vanilla glaze made with powdered sugar and real vanilla, smooth, pourable, and perfect for cakes, muffins, and donuts.
This is the simple vanilla glaze I use when I want a clean finish without frosting or piping.
It’s quick to make, easy to adjust, and works on almost any baked good.
Why you’ll love it
- Versatile glaze for cakes, loaf cakes, muffins, and donuts
- Classic vanilla flavor with a smooth, glossy finish
- Ready in minutes with simple pantry ingredients
Tips for a perfect vanilla glaze
- Adjust consistency easily with a few drops of milk
- Add liquid gradually to control thickness
- Use sifted powdered sugar to avoid lumps
- Let the glaze rest 1 minute before using to smooth out
- Pour over fully cooled cakes for a clean finish
How to make vanilla glaze
- Place the powdered sugar in a bowl.
- Add the water (or milk/cream) and vanilla seeds or vanilla extract.
- Whisk until smooth and fluid, adjusting the liquid a few drops at a time until the glaze reaches a pourable consistency.
How to use this vanilla glaze
- Drizzle over bundt cakes or loaf cakes
- Spoon over muffins or cupcakes
- Use as a glaze for donuts or snack cakes
- Finish simple cakes when you don’t want frosting
Storage
- Refrigerator: store airtight up to 3 days
- To reuse: whisk again, add a few drops of milk if needed
Recipe variations
- Thicker glaze: use less liquid
- Thinner glaze: add more milk or cream
- Vanilla bean glaze: use vanilla bean paste
- Lemon vanilla glaze: add a little lemon juice
I use this vanilla glaze on my vanilla muffins when I want a light, smooth finish that sets nicely without being too thick.
Recipe Questions
Can I make vanilla glaze ahead of time?
Yes, store it chilled and whisk before using.
Why is my glaze too thick?
It needs a bit more liquid.
Can I use water instead of milk?
Yes, but milk or cream gives a better texture.
Does vanilla glaze harden?
It sets lightly but stays soft, not crunchy.
More glaze recipes
I hope you’ll love this recipe! Rate it ★★★★★ and leave a quick comment — it always helps. Happy baking!
Print
Vanilla glaze recipe
- Total Time: 2 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
Description
Simple vanilla glaze made with powdered sugar, water, and real vanilla, smooth and pourable, perfect for muffins, cakes, and loaf cakes.
Ingredients
- 125 g (1 cup + 1 tbsp) Powdered sugar – sifted
- 1 tbsp Water – room temperature
- ½ Vanilla bean – seeds only, or pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Place the powdered sugar in a bowl.
- Add the water and vanilla seeds or vanilla extract.
- Mix with a spoon or whisk until smooth and fluid.
- Adjust the texture with a few drops of water if needed until pourable.
Notes
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently or stir well before using.
Tips:
- Sift the powdered sugar for a perfectly smooth glaze
- Use vanilla bean for a stronger, natural vanilla flavor
- Add liquid gradually to control thickness
- Use slightly warm for easier pouring
- Ideal for drizzling, not spreading
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Category: icing
- Cuisine: American
Leave a Reply