Royal Icing with Meringue Powder

Royal icing is a must-have for creating beautifully decorated cookies, cakes, and other sweet treats. Made with powdered sugar, meringue powder, and a splash of water, this icing is smooth, glossy, and perfect for intricate designs. Whether you’re outlining, flooding, or adding fine details, royal icing ensures a professional finish every time.

What Is Royal Icing with Meringue Powder?

Royal icing is a versatile icing made with a few simple ingredients. The addition of meringue powder eliminates the need for raw egg whites, making it safe, convenient, and easy to prepare. This icing dries to a firm finish, making it ideal for decorating cookies or creating edible decorations like flowers and lettering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Requires only a few simple ingredients and comes together in minutes.
• Perfect Consistency: Easily adjustable for outlining, flooding, or detail work.
• Safe and Reliable: Made with meringue powder instead of raw egg whites.
• Long-Lasting: Can be stored for up to a week, making it great for prepping ahead.

Ingredients

• 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 3 tbsp meringue powder
• 6-8 tbsp warm water (adjust for consistency)
• 1 tsp vanilla or almond extract (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mixing the Icing

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and meringue powder until evenly combined.
2. Add 6 tablespoons of warm water and mix on low speed using a hand or stand mixer. Continue mixing until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.

Beating to Stiff Peaks

3. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat the icing for 4-5 minutes. The icing should become glossy and hold stiff peaks when the beaters are lifted.

Adjusting Consistency

4. If a thinner consistency is needed (e.g., for flooding cookies), add water 1 teaspoon at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Preparing for Decorating

5. Divide the icing into separate bowls if you plan to use multiple colors. Add food coloring to each bowl and mix thoroughly.
6. Transfer the icing to piping bags or squeeze bottles for easy application.

Serving Suggestions

• Use royal icing to decorate sugar cookies, gingerbread, or cupcakes.
• Pair with seasonal cookie cutters and sprinkles for festive designs.
• Create intricate designs or simple patterns to suit any occasion.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Place any unused icing in an airtight container and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent it from drying out.
• Refrigerate for up to 1 week. Stir well before reusing, as the icing may separate slightly.

Freezing Instructions

• Royal icing doesn’t freeze well on its own, but cookies decorated with royal icing can be frozen once fully dry. Layer cookies with parchment paper and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Recipe Variations

• Flavor Options: Swap the vanilla extract for almond, lemon, or peppermint extract.
• Vegan-Friendly: Use aquafaba (chickpea water) as a substitute for meringue powder.
• Bold Colors: Use gel-based food coloring for vibrant hues without altering the icing’s consistency.

FAQs

Can I Make Royal Icing Without Meringue Powder?

Yes, you can use pasteurized egg whites as a substitute, but meringue powder is more convenient and eliminates any food safety concerns.

How Do I Fix Runny Icing?

Add more sifted powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix until the desired thickness is achieved.

How Long Does Royal Icing Take to Dry?

It typically takes 4-8 hours to dry completely, depending on the humidity and thickness of the icing.

This royal icing recipe with meringue powder is a decorating essential, delivering smooth, glossy icing that’s easy to customize. Perfect for cookies, cakes, or intricate designs, it’s a must-try for your next baking project. Ready to create stunning desserts? Try this recipe and let your creativity shine!

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