Source: saved recipe (Google Drive)

Piping and flooding icing for decorated cookies (pairs well with Sugar Cookies).

Ingredients

  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 tbsp meringue powder
  • 5 tbsp water

Directions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on low speed until the sheen disappears and the icing looks matte, about 7-10 minutes. This is the stiffest consistency — too stiff for decorating yet.
  2. Transfer to an air-tight container. Add water a very small amount at a time, stirring by hand, until the icing is a pipeable consistency.
  3. Using a pastry bag, pipe around the edges of each cookie. Let stand to set. Keep leftover icing covered when not in use.
  4. Thin a portion further with a little more water until it drips off a spoon easily and self-levels, for flooding the piped outline. If too thin, add more sifted powdered sugar.
  5. Transfer to a squeeze bottle (or a bag with a corner snipped) and flood the area inside each piped outline. Use a toothpick to help it spread to the edges if needed. Allow to set.
  6. Use the remaining thicker icing for piped decoration. Gel food coloring is best since it adds little liquid.