Are you ready to elevate your cookie decorating game with a foolproof royal icing that will make your sugar cookies look like they came straight from a professional bakery? This classic American royal icing recipe is the secret weapon that professional bakers and home decorators swear by, promising stunning, glossy finishes that will make your cookies Instagram-worthy in just minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 2 large egg whites
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Ensure all utensils and mixing bowl are completely clean and free from any grease or oil, as fat can prevent egg whites from whipping properly.
- Separate egg whites carefully, ensuring no yolk is present. Place egg whites in a large, clean mixing bowl.
- Using an electric mixer, begin beating egg whites on medium speed until they become frothy and start to form soft peaks.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time, continuing to mix on medium speed. Beat until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
- Add lemon juice and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to incorporate. These ingredients will help stabilize the icing and add subtle flavor.
- Continue beating until the icing reaches a thick, spreadable consistency that holds its shape when dropped from a spoon.
- If the icing is too thick, add tiny amounts of water. If too thin, incorporate more powdered sugar until desired consistency is achieved.
- For decorating cookies, divide icing into separate bowls and add food coloring as desired.
- Transfer icing to piping bags or squeeze bottles for easy application on sugar cookies.
- Allow decorated cookies to dry completely at room temperature, which typically takes 1-2 hours.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always use room temperature egg whites for the smoothest consistency and best whipping results.
- Cleanliness is Key: Ensure your mixing bowl and utensils are completely grease-free. Even a tiny bit of oil can prevent your egg whites from forming perfect peaks.
- Consistency is Crucial: The ideal royal icing should be thick enough to hold its shape but thin enough to spread smoothly. Practice makes perfect!
- Color Creativity: Divide your icing into separate bowls before adding food coloring to create a vibrant palette for decorating.
- Storage Hack: If not using immediately, cover the icing with plastic wrap directly touching the surface to prevent a hard skin from forming.
- Piping Perfection: Use different piping tips to create intricate designs and add professional-looking details to your cookies.
- Drying Time: Allow decorated cookies to dry completely at room temperature for a smooth, glossy finish that will impress everyone.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 100kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
