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The Best & Easiest Royal Icing Recipe Using Meringue Powder

A white bowl filled with perfectly smooth and stiff royal icing recipe mixture, ready for decorating.
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This recipe provides a reliable method for making smooth, glossy royal icing that dries hard, perfect for detailed sugar cookie decorating using meringue powder for safety and convenience.

Ingredients

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  • 3 tablespoons meringue powder
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or clear vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

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, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt to the bowl.
  3. Using an electric mixer with a paddle attachment, start mixing on low speed until the sugar is incorporated.
  4. Increase the speed to medium-high and beat for 5 to 7 minutes until the icing is very thick, smooth, and holds stiff peaks.
  5. Divide the icing into separate bowls for coloring or use immediately for white icing.
  6. To achieve piping consistency, add water one teaspoon at a time, mixing well after each addition, until the icing flows slowly from the mixer.
  7. To achieve flooding consistency, add water until the icing flows easily off a spoon and levels out in about 10 to 15 seconds.
  8. Cover the icing with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface when not in use to prevent drying.

Notes

  • For a brilliant white finish, use clear vanilla extract instead of regular vanilla extract.
  • If you do not have meringue powder, you can substitute it with 2 large, pasteurized egg whites, but the texture may vary slightly.
  • If your icing is too thin, add more sifted powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time.
  • If your icing is too thick, add water, one teaspoon at a time.
  • This icing dries firm and hard, making it ideal for stacking cookies or making royal icing flowers.
  • If you are planning your weekly meals, this icing is a great addition to your sugar cookie prep, similar to using a meal planning system for consistency.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delicerecipe.com/royal-icing-recipe/