Royal icing applied to decorated biscuits for a delicious finish

Icing for Biscuits (Royal Icing)

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Royal icing is a classic choice for decorating biscuits. Its smooth and glossy finish not only looks great but also hardens nicely, making your creations both beautiful and easy to handle. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or just want to add some charm to your dessert table, mastering royal icing will elevate your baking game.

How to Make Icing for Biscuits (Royal Icing)

Ingredients:

  • 500g / 1 lb PURE icing sugar / powdered sugar (sifted, plus extra for adjusting) (Note 1)
  • 1/4 cup egg whites (approximately 3 eggs) (Note 2)
  • 2 tbsp corn syrup (or 1.5 tbsp glucose syrup, Note 3)
  • 1 – 1 1/2 tbsp water (plus more as needed)
  • Food dye – liquid or gel (go by eye for quantity) (Note 4)

Directions:

  1. Place all the icing ingredients in a large bowl, starting with 1 tablespoon of water. Beat the mixture for 1 minute on speed 5 until it becomes smooth and glossy. Begin on low speed, then gradually increase.
  2. Divide the icing into different bowls if you want to add colors. Add food dye to each bowl and mix until you reach your desired shade. If the icing becomes too thin, just add more icing sugar to thicken it.
  3. For the icing consistency test, you should be able to draw a figure 8 on the surface, and it should remain visible for about 2 seconds before disappearing. The icing should be thick enough to pipe details but thin enough to spread easily on cookies.
  4. You can adjust the icing if needed—make it thinner by adding water (1/2 teaspoon at a time) or thicker by incorporating more icing sugar.

Piping:

For a quick method to ice your biscuits, refer to the video demo.

How to Serve Icing for Biscuits (Royal Icing)

Once your biscuits are iced, let the royal icing set completely before stacking or serving. This will give them a polished look and help prevent any smudging. You can present your beautifully iced biscuits on a decorative platter or in a clear bag tied with ribbon for a lovely gift.

How to Store Icing for Biscuits (Royal Icing)

Store any leftover icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If the icing hardens, you can add a little water and mix it to regain consistency. Keep in mind that icing should not be stored in the refrigerator as it can change its texture.

Tips to Make Icing for Biscuits (Royal Icing)

  • Always use sifted icing sugar for the best texture.
  • Be mindful of the egg whites; use pasteurized egg whites to ensure safety.
  • For different designs, consider investing in piping bags and various tip sizes.

Variation

You can experiment with different flavors by adding a few drops of vanilla or almond extract to the icing. This will infuse your royal icing with a delightful taste that complements your biscuits.

FAQs

1. Can I use meringue powder instead of egg whites?
Yes, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of meringue powder mixed with 2 tablespoons of water for the egg whites.

2. How long does royal icing take to dry?
Royal icing usually takes about 6 to 8 hours to set completely, depending on the humidity and thickness of the application.

3. Can I freeze royal icing?
Royal icing does not freeze well. It is best used fresh or stored at room temperature in an airtight container if you have leftovers.