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+ servings
Collage of intricately decorated cookies featuring floral designs with vibrant royal icing in blues, purples, pinks, and oranges, accented with gold.

Royal Icing for Decorated Cookies

A classic royal icing recipe perfect for decorating sugar cookies. It dries hard and smooth, making it ideal for intricate designs.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Drying Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 1 batch
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

For the Icing
  • 3 large egg whites pasteurized
  • 4 cups powdered sugar sifted
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 tablespoon water or more, as needed

Equipment

  • Electric mixer
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites, lemon juice, and cream of tartar with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy.
  2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined.
  3. Increase the mixer speed to high and beat for 5-7 minutes, or until the icing is stiff and glossy.
  4. If the icing is too thick, add water, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. If it's too thin, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time.
  5. Use immediately for decorating cookies, or cover tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface of the icing to prevent a skin from forming.

Notes

This icing can be colored with gel food coloring. For best results, use gel colors as liquid colors can alter the consistency. Store any leftover icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

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