Vegan royal icing, a seemingly impossible dream for those avoiding eggs, is entirely achievable and incredibly delicious. This guide will equip you with all you need to create stunning vegan royal icing, perfect for decorating cakes, cookies, and more.
Deysha’s Insights on Vegan Baking
“Many people assume vegan baking is restrictive, but it’s quite the opposite! This Vegan Royal Icing Recipe is a testament to that. It’s all about understanding how ingredients interact and using plant-based alternatives creatively.”
Deyhsa Thiruchelvam, Vegan Pastry Chef
Unveiling the Secrets of Vegan Royal Icing
Traditional royal icing relies on egg whites for its structure and stability. In this vegan version, we’ll be using aquafaba, the brine from canned chickpeas, as a magical egg white replacement. Don’t worry, the final result doesn’t taste like beans at all! Aquafaba whips up beautifully, creating a stable and glossy icing that holds its shape perfectly.
Gathering Your Vegan Royal Icing Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (120ml) aquafaba (chilled)
- 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Vegan food coloring (optional)
Vegan Royal Icing Ingredients
Crafting the Perfect Vegan Royal Icing: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare your aquafaba: Ensure your aquafaba is well-chilled, as this helps it whip up to stiff peaks.
- Whip to perfection: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, whip the aquafaba and cream of tartar on high speed until stiff peaks form. This should take about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you lift the whisk and the peaks stand straight up.
- Sweeten the deal: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed after each addition to incorporate it fully.
- Infuse with flavor: Once all the sugar is incorporated, beat in the vanilla extract and salt. Mix until the icing is smooth and glossy.
Whipping Vegan Royal Icing
Mastering the Consistency of Your Vegan Royal Icing
The consistency of your vegan royal icing is crucial, depending on its intended use:
- Stiff consistency: Perfect for intricate piping work, creating flowers, borders, and lettering. To achieve this, use the icing immediately after preparing it.
- Piping consistency: Ideal for outlining cookies and creating decorative patterns. Add a teaspoon of water at a time to the stiff icing until it reaches a pipeable consistency.
- Flooding consistency: Best for flooding cookies and creating smooth, even surfaces. Continue adding water, one teaspoon at a time, to the piping consistency icing until it flows easily but still holds its shape.
Vegan Royal Icing Consistencies
Bringing Your Creations to Life: Tips for Decorating
- Color your canvas: Divide the icing into separate bowls and tint each with your desired vegan food coloring.
- Get creative with piping: Fit piping bags with different tips to create various designs and textures.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Play around with different techniques, colors, and flavors to personalize your creations.
Expert Tips for Vegan Royal Icing Success
“Always sift your powdered sugar to avoid lumps in your icing. And remember, patience is key! Whipping the aquafaba properly is crucial for a smooth and stable icing.”
Deyhsa Thiruchelvam, Vegan Pastry Chef
Storing Your Vegan Royal Icing
Store any leftover vegan royal icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Before using, give it a good stir to loosen it up.
Vegan Royal Icing FAQs
1. Can I use the liquid from other beans besides chickpeas?
While aquafaba from chickpeas is the most popular choice, you can experiment with the liquid from canned white beans. However, results may vary.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It’s best to make vegan royal icing fresh, as it tends to thicken over time. However, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before using.
3. My icing is too thick, what should I do?
Add water to your icing, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
4. My icing is too runny, what should I do?
Add more sifted powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired thickness.
5. Can I flavor this icing differently?
Absolutely! Get creative with extracts like almond, peppermint, or even fruit extracts. You can also add a bit of citrus zest for a refreshing twist.
Embark on Your Vegan Baking Journey
This vegan royal icing recipe opens a world of possibilities for creating beautiful and delicious vegan treats. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let your creativity run wild!
