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The Best Foolproof Royal Icing Recipe Using Meringue Powder

Close-up of stiff, glossy white peaks resembling whipped topping, likely royal icing recipe consistency, in a small white bowl.
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A reliable recipe for smooth, glossy royal icing using meringue powder, perfect for decorating sugar cookies and gingerbread houses. Includes guidance on adjusting consistency.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
  • 2 tablespoons meringue powder
  • 1/4 cup warm water (approximately)
  • 1/2 teaspoon clear vanilla extract or almond extract

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the sifted confectioners’ sugar and meringue powder until fully combined.
  2. Add the warm water and extract to the dry ingredients.
  3. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on low speed until the ingredients are incorporated.
  4. Increase the speed to medium-high and beat for 5 to 7 minutes until the icing is very thick, smooth, and holds stiff peaks.
  5. Check the consistency. If the icing is too thick for your needs, add water one teaspoon at a time, beating well after each addition, until you reach the desired texture.
  6. Divide the icing into separate bowls for coloring, if desired. Cover all unused icing with a damp cloth or plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent drying.
  7. Use immediately for decorating cookies or store airtight for up to two weeks.

Notes

  • For outlining consistency (stiff): Use the icing as it is after the initial 7-minute beat time. It should hold its shape when lifted.
  • For flooding consistency (medium): Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of water per cup of icing until the icing flows smoothly off a spoon and the trail disappears back into the bowl within 10 to 15 seconds (the 10-second rule).
  • For fine line or detail work (thin): Add slightly more water until the icing flows easily but still holds a defined edge when piped.
  • To make the icing dry firm and glossy, allow decorated cookies to air dry at room temperature for several hours or overnight until completely hard to the touch.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameal.com/foolproof-royal-icing-recipe/