You can literally make this small batch vanilla glaze in two minutes, and you won't end up with a bunch of leftovers. (I can't even tell you how much glaze I've thrown out over the years.) And with just three ingredients, you probably already have everything in your pantry right this very second. I love drizzling it over small batch cinnamon rolls!

I'm convinced that the best way to elevate a dessert in seconds is to just drizzle some glaze over the top. As a trained pastry chef, this has seriously been my go-to move for like, a decade.
The problem is, most recipes make a ton of glaze, and I always end up throwing a bunch of it away. And like, 90% of the time, all you need is a small amount for drizzling.
I especially love using this glaze on my small batch blueberry muffins or these no chill sugar cookies. But you could even use it on my half batch vanilla cupcakes for donut vibes.
Either way, this is a nice recipe to have in your back pocket for last-minute treats or sweet snacks! Let's make it. 🙂
Vanilla bean paste

For a more intense vanilla flavor, I love vanilla bean paste! A little goes a long way, and you'll end up with those gorgeous black flecks. It adds a deeper vanilla flavor, and it's totally worth a little extra cost!
Of course, if you don't have vanilla bean paste on hand, you can totally use vanilla extract instead. I've done it many times!
Whisk it up



For a smooth and silky glaze, I would sift the powdered sugar first. (Ok tbh, I don't do this every time if I'm feeling lazy haha. But it is worth the extra 30 seconds of prep!)
Make it thicker or thinner
If the glaze is too thin, add more powdered sugar, 1-2 teaspoons at a time. Or, if it's too thick, you can add more milk, about ½ teaspoon at a time instead.

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When it comes to small-batch baking, I always recommend using a scale to measure the ingredients. If you don't have a scale, here are all my tips on how I measure ingredients for small batch baking.
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3 Ingredient Small Batch Vanilla Glaze
Equipment
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 60 grams powdered sugar (½ cup)
- 2 teaspoons whole milk, more as needed
- ½ teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
Instructions
- Add the powdered sugar, whole milk, and vanilla bean paste or extract to a small bowl. Whisk until smooth.
- If the glaze is too thick, add more milk, ½ teaspoon at a time. If it's too thin, add more powdered sugar, 1-2 teaspoons at a time.
- Immediately use the glaze. Or, press a piece of plastic wrap to the surface of the glaze and refrigerate it for later.






Did you make this recipe? I'd love to hear what you think!