Vanilla frosting is pretty simple—some butter, some confectioners' sugar and a hint of vanilla—but when it comes to store-bought options, things get complicated quickly. Some out there are ...

If you want to decorate your cookies like ours here, when you’re preparing this icing, use the “6-second pull test” to determine if it is the correct consistency.

Preparation. Make the cupcakes: 1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Line 16 muffin cups with paper liners. 2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.