
Royal icing is a hard, brittle icing made from powdered sugar, egg whites (or meringue powder), and sometimes lemon juice or corn syrup. It's known for its smooth, porcelain-like finish when dry, making it ideal for decorating cookies, cakes, and gingerbread houses. It has a sweet flavor and a stiff consistency that allows for intricate designs and details. Many bakers use royal icing as a glaze or as edible glue to hold decorations in place. Because it dries hard, royal icing helps maintain the shape of decorations over time.
Experience smarter, stress-free cooking.
Royal icing should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature to prevent it from drying out and hardening. To maintain its smooth consistency, cover the surface of the icing with a piece of plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the icing's surface before sealing the container. If the icing does dry out, a few drops of water can be added to restore its original texture. Avoid refrigerating royal icing, as this can cause condensation and alter its consistency.