Royal Icing

1. 1

   In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine sugar, meringue powder, and a scant 1/2 cup water on low speed.

2. 2

   Beat until mixture is fluffy yet dense, 7 to 8 minutes.

3. 3

   To thin the icing for flooding (filling in areas with a thin layer of icing), stir in additional water, 1 teaspoon at a time.

4. 4

   Test the consistency by lifting a spoonful of icing and letting it drip back into the bowl; a ribbon should remain on the surface for 5 to 7 seconds.

5. 5

   To tint icing, dip a toothpick or wooden skewer into food coloring, and gradually mix it in until the desired shade is reached.

No additional tips available.