The Key to Perfect Royal Icing: Start with the Right Ingredients
To achieve the perfect finish, you need the perfect start. Here’s what I’ve learned after years of cookie decorating: the quality of your ingredients makes all the difference.
1. Meringue Powder Matters
Not all meringue powders are created equal. After trying several brands, I’ve found that Genie’s Dream Meringue Powder is a game-changer. It not only gives my icing a smoother consistency but also makes it taste better. Trust me, it’s worth the investment.
2. Powdered Sugar Preferences
I’m team Domino Confectioners Sugar all the way. Why? Because it’s consistently clump-free, eliminating the need for sifting. But no matter the brand, ensure your sugar is finely powdered for a silky smooth icing.
3. The Best Flavoring
Flavor is everything! I use Danncy’s Mexican Vanilla for their clear, vibrant taste. It’s important to choose clear extracts or emulsions to keep your royal icing bright white.
4. Why Corn Syrup?
Adding a little Karo Light Corn Syrup softens the bite of the icing, preventing it from drying too hard. It also contributes to the perfect glossy finish.
Vanilla Royal Icing Recipe
Here’s my go-to recipe for marshmallow-flavored royal icing. It’s easy to mix, delicious, and works beautifully for any cookie design.
Ingredients
1/3 cup GeniesDream Meringue Powder
2 tbsp DanncysMexican vanilla
3/4 cup warm water (do NOT over fill, actually, a tiny bit less than ¾ is preferred)
2 lbs Domino powdered sugar
2 tbsp Karo Light Corn Syrup
Mixing Instructions
Start with the wet ingredients. Add the meringue powder, flavorings, and warm water to your mixing bowl.
Whip it up. Using the paddle attachment (NOT the whisk), mix on medium speed until frothy (30–45 seconds). Avoid over mixing.
Add the sugar. Cover the top of the wet mixture with the powdered sugar.
Incorporate the corn syrup. Turn the mixer to the lowest setting and slowly add the corn syrup while mixing. Mix just enough to incorporate the sugar (20–30 seconds) to avoid a mess when increasing the speed.
Time to mix. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and let it run for exactly 3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the right consistency.
Store airtight. Transfer the icing to an airtight container immediately to prevent crusting.
Storage Tips
Counter: Lasts several weeks.
Refrigerator or Freezer: Keeps for several months.
Note: Icing consistency may deteriorate over time. You can often restore
it by adding powdered sugar, depending on how long it’s been stored.
Getting the Right Icing Consistency
Mastering royal icing doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right ingredients and this trusty recipe, you’ll be on your way to creating cookies that not only taste amazing but look like they came from a professional bakery. Ready to give it a try? Share your creations and let me know how it goes!
Happy decorating,
Wendy 💕🍪
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