Cookie Icing That Hardens No Corn Syrup

Decorating cookies with icing is a fun and creative way to add a personal touch to your baked goods. While there are many types of cookie icing available in the market, most of them contain corn syrup, which may not be suitable for everyone. For those who are looking for an alternative, don't worry! There are many recipes for cookie icing that harden without corn syrup that you can try.

Why Avoid Corn Syrup in Cookie Icing?

Corn syrup is a sweetener that is commonly used in many commercial food products, including cookie icing. However, some people may not want to use it for various reasons. For one, corn syrup is not as healthy as other sweeteners because it is high in fructose, which can lead to various health problems when consumed in excessive amounts. Additionally, some people may have a corn allergy or follow a corn-free diet due to personal preferences or dietary requirements.

Fortunately, there are many alternatives to corn syrup that you can use when making cookie icing. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Honey: Honey is a natural sweetener that can be used in place of corn syrup. It has a similar consistency and sweetness level, making it an ideal substitute.
Agave Syrup: Agave syrup is a natural sweetener that is derived from the agave plant. It is low in fructose and has a mild flavor, making it a good option for those who want to avoid corn syrup.
Maple Syrup: Maple syrup is a popular sweetener that is made from the sap of maple trees. It has a rich flavor and can be used in small quantities to sweeten cookie icing.
Molasses: Molasses is a byproduct of the sugar refining process. It has a rich, dark flavor and can be used in small quantities to add sweetness and depth to cookie icing.

Recipe for Corn Syrup-Free Cookie Icing that Hardens

Now that you know the alternatives to corn syrup, let's move on to the recipe for cookie icing that hardens without corn syrup. This recipe uses royal icing, which is a classic icing that dries to a hard, glossy finish. Here's what you'll need:

3 egg whites
4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 tsp cream of tartar
1 tsp vanilla extract
food coloring (optional)

Here are the steps to follow:

Related Corn

In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy.
Add the cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.
Add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, while beating on low speed.
Add the vanilla extract and beat for an additional minute until the icing is smooth and glossy.
If you want to add food coloring, divide the icing into separate bowls and add a few drops of food coloring to each bowl. Mix well.
Transfer the icing to a piping bag or a plastic ziplock bag with a small hole cut out of the corner.
Decorate the cookies as desired and let the icing harden for at least 2-3 hours before serving.

Congratulations, you've made cookie icing that hardens without corn syrup! You can store any leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Tips for Making Perfect Cookie Icing

If you're new to cookie icing, here are some tips to help you achieve perfect results:

Use gel food coloring instead of liquid food coloring to avoid diluting the icing.
If the icing is too thick, add a few drops of water until it reaches the desired consistency.
If the icing is too thin, add more powdered sugar until it thickens up.
Let the cookies dry completely before stacking or storing them to prevent the icing from smudging.
You can use different piping tips to create various designs and patterns.

Conclusion

Making cookie icing that hardens without corn syrup may seem daunting at first, but with the right recipe and tips, you can achieve perfect results every time. Whether you choose to use honey, agave syrup, maple syrup, or molasses as a substitute for corn syrup, the end result will be a delicious and visually appealing treat that you and your loved ones will enjoy.