How to decorate Sugar Cookies with icing
There’s something magical about Snowflake Sugar Cookies that sparkle like winter frost. In this blog, I’ll show you how to decorate them with royal icing, sprinkle mixes, and shiny isomalt centers. It’s perfect for a festive cookie platter or as edible gifts.
What You’ll Need
• Baked snowflake sugar cookies (with a hole in the center)
• Royal icing (recipe below)
• Frozen Fantasy Sprinkle Mix
• Dreamy Wonderland Sprinkle Mix
• Isomalt sugar
• Edible silver glitter
• Food coloring (any winter shade you love)
Royal Icing Recipe (with Egg Whites)
Ingredients:
• 1 large egg white
• 150g icing sugar, sifted
• ½ teaspoon vanilla cloud flavoring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a clean, grease-free bowl, lightly whisk the egg whites until frothy.
2. Gradually add sifted icing sugar while mixing on low speed.
3. Continue to beat until the icing becomes thick, glossy, and holds soft peaks (about 4-5 minutes).
4. Add Vanilla Cloud Flavoring if desired.
5. Use immediately, or keep covered with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent drying.
Step 1: Pipe the Royal Icing
Once your cookies are completely cool, fill a piping bag with royal icing. Outline and flood the top of each snowflake cookies. Let the icing sit for a few minutes, just until it’s slightly set but still tacky.
Step 2: Dip into Sprinkle Mix
While the icing is still soft, gently dip each cookie into a mix of Frozen Fantasy and Dreamy Wonderland sprinkle mix. The colorful pearls, sugar shards, and pastel tones will create a beautiful frosty look. You can also sprinkle some by hand if you prefer a more balanced decoration.
Step 3: Make the Isomalt Center
In a small pot, melt the isomalt sugar following package instruction (usually around 170°C / 340°F). Once melted, stir in a touch of Edible Silver Glitter and a drop or two of food coloring. I used shades of Peony Pink and Blue Bell for a magical look. Carefully pour the mixture into the center hole of each cookie and let it cool completely. Once hardened, it’ll look like a glimmering candy window!
Step 4: Let Everything Set
Allow the cookies to rest for at least an hour so the icing and isomalt can fully set. Once ready, your cookies will have a shiny, jewel-like center surrounded by a snowy sprinkle border, a true winter wonderland treat!
FAQ
1. Can I use normal sugar instead of isomalt?
No, regular sugar tends to caramelize and turn brown when melted. Isomalt stays clear and glossy, making it perfect for those glassy centers.
2. How long do decorated sugar cookies last?
They can last up to 2 weeks in an airtight container at room temperature. Just make sure they’re kept in a cool, dry place away from humidity.
3. Can I make the royal icing in advance?
Yes! You can store royal icing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before using, bring it to room temperature and give it a quick stir.
4. What if I don’t have a sprinkle mix?
You can make your own by combining pastel-colored sugar pearls, confetti sprinkles, and edible glitter, anything that gives a frosty, winter vibe!
5. How do I store cookies with isomalt centers?
Keep them in a single layer in an airtight container. Avoid stacking, as pressure or humidity may cause the isomalt to soften.