Imagine a world where every cookie you bake is adorned with beautiful, glossy icing that hardens just right. It’s not just a dream—it’s completely achievable with royal icing! Let’s explore some easy recipes that will elevate your cookie game, turning ordinary treats into stunning masterpieces.
Classic Vanilla Royal Icing

My Favorite Royal Icing from Sally's Baking Addiction
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: 5 min Total Time: 5 min.
This traditional royal icing recipe is a go-to for cookie decorators everywhere. Made with simple ingredients like powdered sugar, egg whites, and a splash of vanilla extract, it delivers a sweet, creamy flavor that complements any cookie. What makes it so popular is its versatility; you can use it for outlining, flooding, or even piping delicate decorations.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons meringue powder
- 5-6 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Special Tip: Adjust the water to achieve your desired consistency; less for outlining, more for flooding!
Chocolate Royal Icing
If you’re a chocolate lover, this rich royal icing will surely make your taste buds dance! By adding cocoa powder to the classic recipe, you get a luscious chocolate flavor that pairs perfectly with vanilla or sugar cookies. It’s a delightful twist that adds depth and a bit of indulgence to your baking.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons meringue powder
- 5-6 tablespoons water
Special Tip: For an even richer flavor, try using dark cocoa powder!
Lemon Zest Royal Icing
Brighten up your cookies with a burst of citrusy goodness using this lemon zest royal icing. The addition of fresh lemon juice and zest gives it a refreshing flavor, making it a perfect choice for springtime treats or summer gatherings. It’s zesty, sweet, and simply irresistible!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons meringue powder
- 4-5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Special Tip: Adjust the lemon juice for a tangy kick, and watch your friends come back for seconds!
Almond Royal Icing
This almond-flavored royal icing is a delightful alternative that adds a nutty twist to your cookies. With just a hint of almond extract, it transforms plain cookies into flavorful delights that will leave everyone guessing your secret ingredient. It’s a subtle yet delicious change that makes your cookies stand out.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons meringue powder
- 5-6 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Special Tip: Pair it with sugar cookies for a classic combination that’s hard to resist!
Funfetti Royal Icing
Bring a party vibe to your cookies with this colorful funfetti royal icing! By adding sprinkles to the classic recipe, you create a festive icing that’s perfect for birthdays or celebrations. The colorful bits not only look great but also add a fun crunch to each bite!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons meringue powder
- 5-6 tablespoons water
- 1/2 cup assorted sprinkles
Special Tip: Use themed sprinkles to match your occasion, making your cookies the highlight of any event!