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The Best Foolproof Royal Icing Recipe Using Meringue Powder

A clear glass bowl filled with stiff, glossy white whipped topping, possibly meringue or stiff royal icing recipe component.
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This recipe provides a reliable method for making smooth, glossy royal icing using meringue powder, perfect for decorating sugar cookies and gingerbread houses. Learn how to adjust the consistency for outlining and flooding.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons meringue powder
  • 8 tablespoons warm water
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon clear vanilla extract or lemon extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional, for extra stability)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the meringue powder and warm water until the mixture is frothy, about 1 minute.
  2. Add the sifted powdered sugar and cream of tartar (if using) to the bowl.
  3. Using an electric mixer on low speed, mix the ingredients until they form a thick paste. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  4. Add the vanilla extract. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 5 to 7 minutes until the icing is very stiff, white, and glossy.
  5. To achieve different consistencies, thin the icing with small amounts of water (1/2 teaspoon at a time) or thicken it by adding more sifted powdered sugar.
  6. Use immediately or cover tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent drying.

Notes

  • For outlining consistency (stiff peaks), use the icing as it is after mixing.
  • For flooding consistency (medium flow), add water slowly until the icing flows smoothly off a spoon and the trail disappears into the bowl in about 10 seconds.
  • For fine detail work, you may need a thicker consistency than the initial mix. Add powdered sugar to thicken.
  • To make colored icing, divide the white icing into separate bowls and mix in gel food coloring until the desired shade is reached.
  • This icing dries firm and hard when exposed to air, making it ideal for stacking cookies.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyjade.com/royal-icing-recipe-meringue-powder-guide/