How to Make royal icing

This is a video recipe for royal icing. To keep your gingerbread house from collapsing, plain old icing won't do – you need royal icing! It's also great for decorating cakes and cookies. Learn how to make royal icing with this guide from Howcast.

You Will Need

* An electric mixer

* 4 c Confectioners' sugar

* 3 tbsp Meringue powder

* 6 tbsp Warm water

* .5 tsp Almond or vanilla extract

* Food coloring

Step 1: Mix it up

Using an electric mixer, beat the confectioners' sugar and meringue powder until they're combined. Add half a teaspoon of almond or vanilla extract if you like.

*Tip: If your grocery store doesn't stock meringue powder, look for it in craft and party stores.

Step 2: Add water

Add six tablespoons of warm water and beat on high until stiff peaks form, about six minutes.

*Tip: Stir in a few drops of food coloring, if desired.



Step 3: Keep it from stiffening

Royal icing hardens quickly. To prevent this from happening as you decorate, keep a damp cloth over the icing bowl while you work.

Step 4: Store it

Store extra icing in an airtight container in the fridge; it will keep for several days. When you're ready to use it, re-beat it to soften it. Add a tiny bit of water if necessary.



Fact

Royal icing got its name from being used on fruitcake, which was the traditional wedding cake for English royalty.