Royal Icing

Royal Icing Tips

How do you store royal icing?

Store royal icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. The icing may start to separate, but that's ok. Beat the icing on low speed before using to bring it back to an even consistency. You can also freeze royal icing for up to 2 months in resealable bags. Press all the air out before sealing the bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and beat at a low speed before using.

Can you overmix royal icing?

Yes, you can overmix royal icing. You might be tempted to mix your icing on high speed, but this incorporates too much air into the icing, which will leave a crunchy, sponge-like finish instead of a smooth finish. To avoid overmixing, beat the icing on low speed using a wire whip attachment.

How do you get royal icing to the perfect consistency?

There are mistakes that almost everyone makes with royal icing, and the incorrect consistency is probably the most common. There really is no right or wrong consistency, because how thick or thin the icing should be depends on how you want to use it. If the icing is too thin, add more confectioners' sugar 1/4 cup at a time. If it's too thick, add more water (a teaspoon at a time) until you get to the right consistency.

How do I know how thick or thin to make royal icing?

If you're using royal icing to pipe outlines, it should be on the thicker side. Run a butter knife through the icing; it should settle back into a smooth surface in about 20 seconds. If you're using royal icing to flood cookies, it should be on the thinner side. This icing should settle back to a smooth surface after 10-12 seconds. When using royal icing to pipe flowers and intricate shapes, it should be thick enough to hold its shape without settling back to a smooth surface after running a knife through it. (We recommend using different sized coupler tips to try out new designs!)

How long does it take royal icing to dry?

It takes 8-10 hours for royal icing to dry completely and be ready for packaging (better yet, let them stand overnight). Wait 1-3 hours for royal icing to dry so you can add another layer of frosting without it bleeding into the first layer. Set up a small fan near your cookies to help speed the drying process along.

Can you soften royal icing?

To keep royal icing soft while working with it, use a damp cloth to wrap the tips of open piping bags and cover bowls of icing when not using.

Research contributed by Peggy Woodward, Taste of Home Senior Editor, Food