18+ Royal Icing Recipe Uk Christmas Cake Cook Up Something Special!

Ingredients for Royal Icing

Gather the following ingredients to make the perfect royal icing for your Christmas cake:

• Confectioners' sugar - Also known as icing sugar, this is the main ingredient for royal icing. It is a finely ground sugar that dissolves easily and gives the icing its smooth texture.
• Egg whites - Traditionally, royal icing is made with raw egg whites. However, to avoid any risk of salmonella, you can use pasteurized egg whites or meringue powder instead.
• Lemon juice - This helps to balance the sweetness of the icing and also acts as a preservative.
• Vanilla extract - This adds a subtle flavor to the icing. You can also use almond or peppermint extract for a different flavor profile.
• Water - This is used to thin out the icing to achieve the desired consistency.

Instructions for Making Royal Icing

Follow these steps to create the perfect royal icing for your Christmas cake:

1. In a large mixing bowl, sift the confectioners' sugar to remove any lumps.
2. Add the egg whites and lemon juice to the sugar and mix with an electric mixer on low speed until well combined.
3. Continue mixing on medium speed until the icing becomes thick and glossy, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add vanilla extract and mix for another minute.
5. If the icing is too thick, add a few drops of water at a time until the desired consistency is achieved. If it is too thin, add more confectioners' sugar.
6. Your royal icing is now ready to use. You can add food coloring to achieve different colors or leave it white for a classic look.

Tips for Working with Royal Icing

Here are some tips to keep in mind while using royal icing for your Christmas cake:

• Make sure your mixing bowl and utensils are completely clean and free of any grease. Any grease can prevent the icing from reaching the desired consistency.
• Always cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap while working with the icing to prevent it from drying out.
• If you plan on adding decorations to your Christmas cake, make sure to let the icing dry completely before adding them. This will ensure that the decorations stay in place and don't sink into the icing.
• Store any leftover royal icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before using, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick mix to restore its smooth texture.