Skip to main content

Decorative Icing

This recipe originally accompanied five-spice gingersnaps.

Cooks' note:

Icing can be made 1 day ahead and chilled, its surface covered with a dampened paper towel and bowl covered with plastic wrap.

Recipe information

  • Total Time

    15 min

  • Yield

    Makes about 3 cups

Ingredients

1 (1-lb) box confectioners sugar
4 teaspoons powdered egg whites (not reconstituted) such as Just Whites
1/3 cup water
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Beat together all ingredients in a large bowl with an electric mixer at medium speed until just combined, about 1 minute.

    Step 2

    Increase speed to high and continue to beat until icing holds stiff peaks, about 3 minutes in a stand mixer or 10 with a handheld. If not using icing immediately, cover surface with a dampened paper towel, then cover bowl with plastic wrap.

Read More
Apple pie in doughnut hole form? We’re in love.
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
From Italian wedding soup with escarole to green smoothies with kale.
Filberts, goobers, scaly bark nuts: Explore the world beyond almonds in this guide.
Like crispy gnocchi caprese and raspberry—brown butter skillet cake.
The secret to flavorful, never-greasy eggplant parm? Brine the eggplant first.
Like hot honey chicken with peaches and a dirty martini spritz.
Our go-to banana bread recipe is moist, nutty, and incredibly easy to make.