Cookie Icing That Hardens Without Corn Syrup
The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in some homemade cookies. Baking cookies is a fun activity for the entire family, but decorating them can be equally thrilling. One of the essential parts of cookie decoration is the icing. While there are several types of icing, cookie icing that hardens without corn syrup is a popular choice among bakers. This article will explore the different types of icing that can harden without corn syrup and how to make them.
Why Avoid Corn Syrup?
Corn syrup is a commonly used ingredient in many recipes, including cookie icing. However, some people prefer to avoid it because of its high glucose content. Consumption of corn syrup in large quantities has been linked to obesity, diabetes, and other health problems. Therefore, avoiding corn syrup is a healthy choice. Fortunately, there are alternative ingredients that can be used to make icing that hardens without corn syrup.
Types of Icing That Hardens Without Corn Syrup
Here are some of the different types of icing that can harden without the use of corn syrup:
Royal Icing
Royal icing is a traditional icing used for decorating cookies. It is made by beating egg whites, powdered sugar, and cream of tartar until it forms stiff peaks. This icing hardens when exposed to air and is perfect for intricate designs. It can be colored with food coloring and flavored with extracts.
Glaze Icing
Glaze icing is another popular icing that hardens without corn syrup. It is made by combining powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. This icing is easy to make and can be drizzled over cookies or spread with a knife. It dries to a shiny finish and is perfect for simple cookie designs.
Buttercream Icing
Buttercream icing is a rich and creamy icing that can also harden without corn syrup. It is made by beating butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until it forms a smooth consistency. This icing can be piped onto cookies and left to dry overnight. It forms a soft, but firm, texture that is perfect for cookie decoration.
How to Make Cookie Icing That Hardens Without Corn Syrup
Now that we have discussed the different types of icing that can harden without corn syrup, let's look at how to make them.
Royal Icing Recipe
- 2 egg whites
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- Food coloring (optional)
- Flavoring extracts (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites, powdered sugar, and cream of tartar until it forms stiff peaks.
- If desired, add food coloring and flavoring extracts.
- Place icing into a piping bag or plastic bag and decorate cookies as desired.
- Let the icing dry for several hours until it hardens.
Glaze Icing Recipe
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until it forms a smooth glaze.
- If desired, add food coloring.
- Drizzle over cookies or spread with a knife.
- Let the glaze dry for several hours until it hardens.
Buttercream Icing Recipe
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until it forms a smooth consistency.
- If desired, add food coloring.
- Place icing into a piping bag or plastic bag and decorate cookies as desired.
- Let the icing dry overnight until it hardens.
Conclusion
Cookies are a perfect treat for any occasion, and decorating them is always a fun activity. Cookie icing that hardens without corn syrup is an excellent choice for bakers who want to avoid high glucose content. Royal icing, glaze icing, and buttercream icing are three types of icing that can harden without the use of corn syrup. These icings can be flavored and colored to suit your preferences. With the recipes mentioned above, you can easily make delicious icing that hardens without corn syrup for your cookies.
