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The Best Easy Royal Icing Recipe Using Meringue Powder

A white bowl filled with thick, perfectly whipped white royal icing recipe mixture showing smooth swirls.
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Follow this simple royal icing recipe using meringue powder to create smooth, glossy icing that dries hard, perfect for decorating sugar cookies and gingerbread houses.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
  • 2 tablespoons meringue powder
  • 1/4 cup warm water (plus more as needed)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon light corn syrup (optional, for extra gloss)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional, prevents crystallization)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the sifted confectioners’ sugar and meringue powder until fully combined.
  2. Add the warm water, vanilla extract, and corn syrup (if using) to the dry ingredients.
  3. Using an electric mixer with a paddle attachment, start mixing on low speed until the ingredients are just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  4. Increase the speed to medium-high and beat for 5 to 7 minutes until the icing is very smooth, thick, and glossy.
  5. Check the consistency. For piping consistency, the icing should hold a soft peak. For flooding consistency, add water one teaspoon at a time until the icing flows smoothly off the mixer blade and settles back into the bowl in about 10 seconds.
  6. Divide the icing into separate bowls for coloring or use white immediately.
  7. Cover the icing tightly with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a crust from forming.

Notes

  • To achieve a 10-second flood consistency, the icing should slowly disappear back into the main batch after you lift the mixer blade.
  • If the icing becomes too thick while working, add a few drops of water. If it is too thin, add a tablespoon of sifted confectioners’ sugar.
  • Store unused royal icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Do not refrigerate.
  • Use gel food coloring for the most intense color without thinning the icing consistency.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://fooddexterity.com/royal-icing-recipe-meringue-powder-easy/