Traditional Royal Icing Techniques

Question 1

Where does royal icing get its name?

Answer 1

The name royal icing comes from the history of this type of icing being used on Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s wedding cake.

Question 2

What are the 4 ingredients used to make royal icing?

Answer 2

1. Sifted Powdered Sugar
2. Fresh Egg Whites at Room Temperature
3. Cream of Tartar or Lemon Juice
4. Glycerin

Question 3

What is the function of the acid in royal icing?

Answer 3

Keeps the icing white and helps break down the egg protein

Question 4

What is the function of glycerin in royal icing?

Answer 4

Keeps the icing soft

Question 5

What should royal icing be thinned out with?

Answer 5

Egg Whites (not water)

Question 6

How can a purple coloured royal icing be preserved?

Answer 6

To preserve the purple colour, eliminate the acid as this will cause it to turn blue, and add baking soda.

Question 7

List 5 techniques that royal icing can be used for.

Answer 7

~ Royal Icing Scrolls
~ Royal Icing Drop String
~ Royal Icing Lace
~ Oriental string work
~ Brush Embroidery
~ Overpiping
~ Bridge Extension
~ Bridgeless Extension
~ Flooded Collar