Get ready to elevate your cake decorating game with these 20 delicious royal icing recipes! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, mastering the art of royal icing can make all the difference in creating stunning and delicious confections. With its creamy texture, sweet flavor, and versatility, royal icing is a must-have tool for any serious baker.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of royal icing, exploring unique flavor combinations and decorating techniques to help you create show-stopping masterpieces. From classic vanilla and lemon zest to strawberry flavored and chocolate drizzled, we’ve got you covered with 20 mouthwatering recipes that are sure to inspire your next baking adventure.
Classic Vanilla Royal Icing
Classic Vanilla Royal Icing Recipe
This classic vanilla royal icing recipe is a timeless favorite for decorating cakes, cookies, and other sweet treats. With its smooth, creamy texture and subtle sweetness, it’s the perfect choice for adding a touch of elegance to your baked goods.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) whole milk or heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and meringue powder until well combined.
2. Gradually add in the milk or heavy cream, whisking until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Use immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– For best results, use high-quality powdered sugar and meringue powder.
– If the icing becomes too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
Lemon Zest Royal Icing
Elevate your baked goods with this vibrant and citrusy royal icing, perfect for topping cakes, cookies, or using as a decorative element.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2-3 drops yellow food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and salt until smooth.
2. Add the grated lemon zest and whisk until well combined.
3. If desired, add yellow food coloring to achieve the desired shade of yellow.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None
Strawberry Flavored Royal Icing
Elevate your cake decorating game with this sweet and tangy strawberry flavored royal icing recipe, perfect for adding a pop of flavor to your next project.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon (15ml) strawberry extract or 1/2 cup (120g) strawberry puree
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and meringue powder.
2. Gradually add in water, whisking until smooth and stiff peaks form.
3. Add salt and whisk until combined.
4. If using extract or puree, whisk until fully incorporated.
5. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to tint the icing.
Cooking Time: None required! This royal icing is ready to use immediately.
Chocolate Royal Icing
Elevate your baking game with this indulgent chocolate royal icing recipe, perfect for decorating cakes, cookies, and other sweet treats. This velvety smooth frosting is a game-changer for any chocolate lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1-2 teaspoons liquid chocolate extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined.
2. Gradually add milk or heavy cream, whisking until smooth and creamy.
3. Add softened butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. If desired, add liquid chocolate extract to enhance the flavor.
5. Use immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None required! This icing is ready to use as soon as it’s mixed.
Almond Extract Royal Icing
Elevate your cakes and cookies with the rich flavor of almond extract, perfectly balanced in this royal icing recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) meringue powder
– 2 teaspoons almond extract
– 2-4 tablespoons water
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and meringue powder until well combined.
2. Add the almond extract and whisk until smooth.
3. Gradually add the water, whisking continuously, until the icing reaches your desired consistency. You may not need all of the water, so add it slowly.
4. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to tint the icing.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a sweet and simple royal icing recipe!
Peppermint Royal Icing
Add a refreshing twist to your baking with this Peppermint Royal Icing recipe. Perfect for decorating cookies, cakes, and cupcakes during the holiday season or any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– 2-4 tablespoons whole milk
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth.
2. Add the peppermint extract and whisk until well combined.
3. Gradually add in the milk, starting with 2 tablespoons, until you reach your desired consistency. The icing should be thick but still spreadable.
4. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to tint the icing green.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Coconut Royal Icing
Elevate your baked goods with this rich and creamy Coconut Royal Icing, perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and salt until well combined.
2. Add in the softened butter and mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually pour in the coconut cream while continuously whisking until fully incorporated.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract to combine.
Cook Time: None
Tips:
– For a stronger coconut flavor, use more coconut cream or add a teaspoon of shredded coconut to the mixture.
– If the icing becomes too thin, refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to firm it up before re-whisking.
Orange Blossom Royal Icing
This sweet and fragrant royal icing is infused with the essence of orange blossom water, perfect for decorating cakes and cookies. With its delicate flavor and vibrant color, it’s a show-stopping addition to any baked good.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons orange blossom water
– 2 tablespoons water
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and meringue powder.
2. Gradually add in the orange blossom water and mix until well combined.
3. Add the water, one tablespoon at a time, until the icing reaches your desired consistency.
4. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to tint the icing.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None required
Maple Glazed Royal Icing
Maple Glazed Royal Icing Recipe
Elevate your cake decorating skills with this sweet and tangy maple glazed royal icing recipe, perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2-3 drops pure maple extract
– 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth.
2. Add the pure maple extract and whisk until combined.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream or whole milk, whisking until the desired consistency is reached. The icing should be thick enough to hold its shape, but still spreadable.
4. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to tint the icing.
5. Use immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time:
None! This is a no-bake recipe.
Raspberry Swirl Royal Icing
Add a touch of sweetness and color to your baked goods with this simple recipe for Raspberry Swirl Royal Icing. Perfect for decorating cakes, cookies, or cupcakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2-3 drops red food coloring
– 2-3 drops raspberry extract (optional)
– 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk or heavy cream
– Fresh raspberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth.
2. Add red food coloring and mix until the desired shade is achieved.
3. If using raspberry extract, add 2-3 drops and whisk well.
4. Gradually add milk or heavy cream, whisking continuously until a thick but pourable consistency is reached.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Espresso Infused Royal Icing
Elevate your cake decorating game with this rich and decadent espresso infused royal icing recipe. Perfect for coffee lovers, this icing adds a deep, velvety flavor to any cake or cookie.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) whole milk or heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and salt until well combined.
2. Add the milk and whisk until smooth, achieving a thick but still pourable consistency.
3. Add the espresso powder and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Total time: 5 minutes
Caramel Drizzle Royal Icing
Transform your cakes and cupcakes into sweet masterpieces with this rich and creamy Caramel Drizzle Royal Icing recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2-3 drops vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120g) caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and butter until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
3. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking until the icing reaches your desired consistency.
4. Add salt and whisk until dissolved.
5. Stir in caramel sauce until well combined.
6. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
This Caramel Drizzle Royal Icing is perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. Enjoy!
Pistachio Royal Icing
Add a touch of elegance to your baked goods with this vibrant and delicious pistachio royal icing. Perfect for decorating cakes, cookies, and cupcakes, this recipe is easy to make and yields a beautiful, green-hued finish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder
– 2 teaspoons pistachio extract or 1/4 teaspoon pistachio flavoring
– 2 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, meringue powder, and pistachio extract or flavoring until well combined.
2. Gradually add in milk or heavy cream, whisking continuously until smooth and creamy.
3. Add salt and whisk until dissolved.
4. Use immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Gingerbread Spiced Royal Icing
This rich and creamy royal icing is infused with the warm spices of gingerbread, making it perfect for decorating gingerbread cookies or other sweet treats during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and meringue powder.
2. Gradually add in the water, whisking until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, whisking until well combined.
4. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer for 2-3 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: None! This royal icing is ready to use immediately.
Cherry Flavored Royal Icing
This sweet and tangy cherry flavored royal icing is perfect for decorating cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. With its vibrant pink hue and fruity flavor, it’s sure to add a pop of color and excitement to any dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) cherry extract or flavoring
– 4 tablespoons (60ml) water
– Food coloring (pink)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and meringue powder until well combined.
2. Add the cherry extract or flavoring and whisk until smooth.
3. Gradually add in the water, whisking continuously until the icing reaches your desired consistency.
4. Add a few drops of pink food coloring to tint the icing.
5. Use immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Lavender Honey Royal Icing
Elevate your baking game with this unique and aromatic royal icing recipe, infused with the subtle charm of lavender and the warmth of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and salt.
2. Add the milk or heavy cream, and whisk until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the dried lavender buds and honey. Whisk until well combined and the lavender is fully incorporated.
4. Use immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of lavender to your liking, as it can be quite potent.
– For a stronger honey flavor, use a high-quality, dark honey like buckwheat or manuka.
– This royal icing is perfect for decorating cakes, cookies, and other baked goods.
Blueberry Cream Royal Icing
Elevate your cake decorating game with this sweet and tangy Blueberry Cream Royal Icing recipe. Perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies, this icing is a perfect blend of creamy and fruity.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) unsalted butter, softened
– 2-3 drops blue food coloring (depending on desired shade)
– 2-3 tablespoons (30-45ml) heavy cream or whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (15g) fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and butter until smooth.
2. Add blue food coloring, one drop at a time, until desired shade is achieved.
3. Whisk in heavy cream or whole milk, starting with 2 tablespoons (30ml) and adding more as needed to achieve desired consistency.
4. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Crush blueberries in a small bowl using a fork or pastry blender.
6. Fold crushed blueberries into the icing until well combined.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready to use immediately.
Toasted Marshmallow Royal Icing
Elevate your cake decorating game with this unique and delicious recipe for Toasted Marshmallow Royal Icing. This sweet and fluffy icing is perfect for topping cakes, cookies, or using as a filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon toasted marshmallow syrup (or to taste)
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, meringue powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add in the milk, whisking until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the toasted marshmallow syrup and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to tint the icing.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Chai Spiced Royal Icing
Add a delightful twist to your baked goods by incorporating the aromatic flavors of chai spices into your royal icing. This recipe yields a deliciously spiced and sweet topping perfect for decorating cakes, cookies, or other treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/16 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and butter until smooth.
2. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract, whisking until combined.
3. Stir in cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves.
4. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer for 2-3 minutes or until stiff peaks form.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Rosewater Royal Icing
Elevate your cakes and cupcakes with the elegant charm of rosewater royal icing, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons rosewater extract
– 2 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and rosewater extract until well combined.
2. Gradually add in the milk or heavy cream, whisking continuously until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the salt and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to tint the icing.
5. Use immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None required!
Summary
Discover 20 scrumptious royal icing recipes perfect for decorating your favorite treats. From classic vanilla to creative flavors like strawberry and peppermint, these recipes offer endless possibilities for cake decorating, cookie making, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this collection of recipes is sure to inspire your next creative project. With a range of flavors and decorations, you’ll be able to create stunning masterpieces that are almost too beautiful to eat.
