When it comes to decorating desserts, there’s nothing quite like the elegance and sophistication that a well-made royal icing can bring. With its smooth, creamy texture and versatility in terms of flavor and color, royal icing has become a staple in many bakeries and homes alike. But with so many different types of royal icing out there, it can be hard to know where to start.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of 18 decadent royal icing recipes for you to try. From classic vanilla bean to exotic matcha, each of these flavors is sure to take your desserts to the next level. Whether you’re looking for a simple yet elegant sugar cookie or an over-the-top showstopper for your next holiday party, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore some of our favorite royal icing recipes and share tips and tricks for how to make them at home. So grab your piping bag and get ready to take your dessert game to new heights!
Vanilla Bean Royal Icing for Sugar Cookies
This rich and creamy royal icing is infused with the sweet flavor of vanilla bean, perfect for decorating sugar cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) whole milk or heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or 1/4 teaspoon grated vanilla bean
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and salt until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract and vanilla bean paste (or grated vanilla bean) to the mixture. Whisk until well combined.
3. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes light and fluffy.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a frosting recipe!
Tips:
– For a thicker consistency, add more powdered sugar. For a thinner consistency, add a little more milk.
– This icing is best used within 3 days of making, as it may lose its stability over time.
– Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Lemon Zest Royal Icing for Citrus Cakes
This vibrant royal icing recipe is infused with the brightness of lemon zest, perfectly complementing the sweetness of citrus cakes. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be creating stunning, flavorful decorations in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and salt until smooth.
2. Add the grated lemon zest and whisk until well combined.
3. Gradually add the water, whisking until the icing reaches your desired consistency.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Chocolate Royal Icing for Brownie Decorations
Elevate your brownie game with this decadent chocolate royal icing, perfect for decorating and adding a luxurious touch to your baked goods. This recipe yields a smooth, creamy, and intensely chocolatey glaze that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and cocoa powder until well combined.
2. Add in the milk and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth and creamy.
3. If desired, add more milk to achieve your preferred consistency for piping or spreading.
4. Use immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Strawberry Royal Icing for Valentine’s Day Treats
This Strawberry Royal Icing recipe adds a pop of color and flavor to your Valentine’s Day treats, perfect for decorating cookies, cakes, or cupcakes. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be creating beautiful and delicious confections in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons strawberry puree or jam
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, strawberry puree or jam, and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Gradually add in the water, whisking continuously until the icing reaches your desired consistency.
3. Beat the mixture for an additional minute to ensure it’s well-combined and smooth.
Cooking Time:
None required! This royal icing is a simple and quick-to-make recipe that can be used immediately.
Peppermint Royal Icing for Holiday Cookies
Add a refreshing twist to your holiday cookies with this Peppermint Royal Icing recipe. Perfect for decorating sugar cookies, gingerbread men, or any other sweet treats.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2-3 drops peppermint extract
• 2-3 teaspoons milk or heavy cream
• Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth.
2. Add the peppermint extract and whisk until combined.
3. Gradually add the milk or heavy cream, whisking until the icing reaches your desired consistency. Start with 2 teaspoons and add more as needed.
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
Almond Flavored Royal Icing for Macarons
A classic French meringue-based icing infused with the subtle flavor of almonds, perfect for topping your delicate macaron shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons almond extract
– 2-3 drops pink or white food coloring (optional)
– 2 large egg whites
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and almond extract until well combined.
2. Add the softened butter and mix until smooth.
3. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to tint the icing.
4. In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
5. Gradually pour the sugar mixture into the egg whites, whipping continuously until stiff and smooth.
6. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
This icing is ready to use as soon as it’s prepared. Simply pipe onto your macaron shells and let set before serving.
Coconut Royal Icing for Tropical Desserts
A creamy and sweet icing that’s perfect for topping tropical desserts like pineapple cakes, coconut cream pies, or mango tarts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons coconut milk or heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition.
3. Add the unsweetened shredded coconut and mix until combined.
4. Add the coconut milk or heavy cream and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
5. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to tint the icing.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 15 minutes
Maple Syrup Royal Icing for Autumn Pastries
Maple Syrup Royal Icing for Autumn Pastries: A Delicate and Flavorful Glaze
Create a stunning and sweet topping for your autumn pastries with this simple recipe featuring the rich flavor of pure maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and cream of tartar until smooth.
2. Gradually add in water while continuously whisking the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency for piping or drizzling.
3. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to tint the icing to match your autumn-inspired pastries.
Cooking Time: None! This is a non-cooking recipe, as you’ll be using pure maple syrup and powdered sugar to create the glaze.
Use this Maple Syrup Royal Icing to top your favorite autumn treats, such as pumpkin spice cupcakes or apple cider donuts. Enjoy!
Raspberry Royal Icing for Cupcake Toppings
Add a touch of elegance to your cupcakes with this sweet and tangy raspberry royal icing recipe. Perfect for special occasions or just because!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) unsalted butter, softened
– 2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed raspberry puree
– 2-4 drops pink or red food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and butter until smooth.
2. Add the raspberry puree and mix until well combined.
3. If desired, add a few drops of pink or red food coloring to tint the icing.
4. Use immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None! Simply whisk together and use as needed.
Orange Blossom Royal Icing for Spring Cakes
Brighten up your springtime baking with this delightful orange blossom royal icing, perfect for topping cakes and cookies. This recipe combines the sweetness of orange zest with the subtle flavor of orange blossom water, creating a unique and refreshing dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2-3 drops orange food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange blossom water until smooth.
2. Add salt and whisk until combined.
3. If desired, add orange food coloring to tint the icing. Start with 2 drops and adjust to your liking.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Espresso Royal Icing for Coffee-Flavored Desserts
Elevate your coffee-flavored desserts with this rich and decadent espresso royal icing. Perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies, this flavorful icing combines the deep flavors of espresso with the sweetness of powdered sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
– 2-3 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth.
2. Add the instant espresso powder and whisk until well combined.
3. Gradually add the milk or heavy cream, starting with 2 tablespoons and adding more as needed to achieve a thick but spreadable consistency.
4. Whisk in the vanilla extract.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Pistachio Royal Icing for Unique Cookie Designs
Royal icing is a must-have for unique cookie designs. This pistachio-infused version adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your baked goods.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons pistachio extract or 1/4 teaspoon green food coloring
– 2-3 tablespoons milk or water
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth.
2. Add pistachio extract or green food coloring and mix until combined.
3. Gradually add milk or water, whisking until the icing reaches your desired consistency (thin for piping, thicker for flooding).
4. 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.
Caramel Royal Icing for Sweet Treats
Elevate your sweet treats with this rich and creamy caramel royal icing recipe. Perfect for decorating cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, butter, and sea salt until smooth.
2. Add heavy cream or whole milk and vanilla extract; whisk until combined.
3. Gradually add caramel sauce; whisk until fully incorporated and smooth.
4. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer for 2-3 minutes to achieve a creamy consistency.
Cooking Time: None required, as this is a sweet treat topping!
Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This caramel royal icing is perfect for topping your favorite sweet treats.
Blueberry Royal Icing for Summer Desserts
Elevate your summer desserts with this sweet and tangy blueberry royal icing, perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. This vibrant purple hue is sure to add a pop of color to any dessert table.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons whole milk
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon blueberry jam or puree
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth.
2. Add the whole milk and vanilla extract, whisking until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the blueberry jam or puree until the icing reaches your desired shade of purple.
4. Use immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None! This royal icing is ready to use as soon as it’s mixed together.
Gingerbread Royal Icing for Festive Cookies
Add a touch of festive flair to your gingerbread cookies with this classic royal icing recipe. Perfect for decorating and adding an extra layer of sweetness to your holiday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and meringue powder until well combined.
2. Gradually add in the water, whisking until smooth and stiff peaks form.
3. Add the grated ginger 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 (assembling and decorating only)
Cherry Royal Icing for Fruit-Filled Cakes
Elevate your fruit-filled cakes with a rich and decadent cherry royal icing that complements the sweetness of fresh fruits.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) whole milk or heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1-2 drops cherry extract (optional)
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Add the softened butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. If desired, add cherry extract or food coloring to achieve the desired shade and flavor.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None (this is a non-cooking recipe)
Matcha Royal Icing for Japanese-Inspired Desserts
This vibrant green icing is a perfect addition to your Japanese-inspired desserts, adding a pop of color and subtle matcha flavor. Use it to top cakes, cookies, or decorate pastries for a unique touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons matcha powder
– 2 tablespoons whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, matcha powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add in milk while whisking until the mixture forms a smooth, thick paste.
3. Adjust consistency as needed by adding more powdered sugar or milk.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Use high-quality matcha powder for the best flavor and color.
– If you find the icing too thin, refrigerate it for about 10 minutes to firm up before using.
– Experiment with different ratios of matcha to powdered sugar to achieve your desired shade.
Pumpkin Spice Royal Icing for Fall Delights
Pumpkin Spice Royal Icing: A Perfect Addition to Your Fall Delights
Add a touch of autumnal warmth to your baked goods and decorations with this delicious Pumpkin Spice Royal Icing. This sweet and spicy icing is perfect for topping cakes, cookies, and donuts, or as a filling for pumpkin pies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin puree
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, butter, and heavy cream until smooth.
2. Add pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
3. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Elevate your baking game with these 18 decadent royal icing recipes. From classic vanilla bean to festive gingerbread, and from fruity raspberry to rich caramel, there’s a flavor combination for every occasion. Learn how to make perfect sugar cookies, citrus cakes, brownie decorations, and more with our comprehensive guide. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these royal icing recipes will inspire you to create stunning and delicious desserts.
