Royal icing is a versatile and essential component in the world of baking, perfect for decorating cookies, cakes, and other sweet treats. Its smooth, glossy finish and ability to harden make it ideal for creating intricate designs and adding a professional touch to your baked goods.
One key ingredient in this recipe is meringue powder, which might not be a staple in every household. Meringue powder is a dried egg white substitute that helps stabilize the icing and gives it a smooth texture. You can find it in the baking aisle of most supermarkets or specialty baking stores.
Ingredients for Royal Icing Recipe
Powdered sugar: This finely ground sugar is essential for creating the smooth texture of the icing.
Meringue powder: A dried egg white substitute that stabilizes the icing and gives it a glossy finish.
Water: Helps to achieve the desired consistency of the icing.
Technique Tip for This Icing
When mixing the powdered sugar and meringue powder, make sure to sift them together to avoid any lumps. This ensures a smoother royal icing. Additionally, when adding the water, do so gradually to control the consistency. If the icing is too thick, you can add a few more drops of water; if it's too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar. For the best results, use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to achieve the desired glossy and stiff peaks.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar blended into a fine powder: If you don't have powdered sugar, you can blend granulated sugar in a blender or food processor until it reaches a fine, powdery consistency.
meringue powder - Substitute with egg whites: Use 2 large egg whites in place of 2 tablespoon of meringue powder. This will provide the necessary protein to stabilize the icing.
water - Substitute with milk: Milk can be used to add a richer flavor to the icing, though it may slightly alter the consistency.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Icing
How to Store / Freeze This Icing
- To store your royal icing, transfer it to an airtight container. This prevents it from drying out and forming a crust.
- Place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the icing before sealing the container. This extra layer helps maintain its smooth texture.
- Keep the container at room temperature if you plan to use the icing within a few days. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator as it can cause the icing to harden.
- For longer storage, freeze the royal icing. Spoon it into a freezer-safe bag, squeeze out any excess air, and seal tightly.
- Label the bag with the date and type of icing to keep track of its freshness.
- When you're ready to use the frozen icing, let it thaw at room temperature. Once thawed, give it a good stir to restore its consistency.
- If the icing seems too thick after thawing, add a few drops of water and mix until you reach the desired consistency.
- Always check the icing for any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or discoloration, before using it on your desserts.
How to Reheat Leftovers
- Place the royal icing in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds, stirring halfway through, until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Alternatively, set the bowl of royal icing over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method). Stir continuously until it softens and becomes smooth.
- If the royal icing is too thick, add a few drops of room temperature water and mix well until the desired consistency is achieved.
- For a quick fix, use a hairdryer on a low heat setting. Gently warm the surface of the royal icing while stirring to ensure even heating.
- If the royal icing has hardened, break it into smaller pieces and use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to beat it back to a smooth consistency, adding a few drops of water if necessary.
Best Tools for Making This Icing
Mixing bowl: A large container used to combine the powdered sugar and meringue powder.
Sifter: A tool to sift the powdered sugar, ensuring there are no lumps.
Electric mixer: An appliance used to beat the mixture until it is smooth, glossy, and forms stiff peaks.
Measuring cups: Tools to accurately measure the powdered sugar and water.
Measuring spoons: Tools to measure the meringue powder and water precisely.
Spatula: A utensil to scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl and ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Airtight container: A storage container to keep the royal icing fresh if not used immediately.
How to Save Time on Making This Icing
Measure ingredients ahead: Pre-measure powdered sugar and meringue powder to save time during preparation.
Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can beat the icing more efficiently than a hand mixer, freeing you up for other tasks.
Store properly: Make a large batch and store in an airtight container to have royal icing ready for future use.
Room temperature water: Ensure the water is at room temperature before starting to avoid delays in mixing.
Royal Icing Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups Powdered sugar sifted
- 2 tablespoon Meringue powder
- 6 tablespoon Water room temperature
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar and meringue powder.
- Add water and beat on low speed until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Increase speed to high and beat until stiff peaks form, about 5-7 minutes.
- Use immediately or store in an airtight container.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses for This Icing
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