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Foolproof Royal Icing That Hardens Perfectly for Decorated Sugar Cookies

A platter of brightly colored sugar cookies decorated with intricate white royal icing snowflakes, showcasing the results of a good sugar cookie icing recipe.
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Learn to make this easy sugar cookie icing recipe that hardens completely, dries smooth, and provides a professional, glossy finish. This durable frosting is perfect for beginner cookie decorating and intricate designs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 3 tablespoons meringue powder
  • 6 tablespoons warm water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar and meringue powder until fully combined.
  2. Add the warm water and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients.
  3. Using an electric mixer on low speed, gradually mix the ingredients until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  4. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 5 to 7 minutes until the icing is smooth, glossy, and holds stiff peaks. This is your piping consistency.
  5. To achieve a thinner consistency for flooding or glazing, add water, one teaspoon at a time, beating well after each addition until the desired flow is reached.
  6. Use immediately for piping details or cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent drying.
  7. Apply icing to cooled sugar cookies. Allow the icing to dry completely, uncovered, at room temperature for several hours or overnight until it sets hard.

Notes

  • For coloring, use gel food coloring, as liquid coloring can alter the icing consistency too much.
  • If the icing becomes too thick while working, stir in a few drops of water to restore the correct texture.
  • This recipe creates a durable icing that is ideal for stackable or giftable cookies.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://gourmetgaze.com/sugar-cookie-icing-recipe-sets-hard/