Name: Gingerbread Icing Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 32
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 2 large egg whites; 3 cups powdered sugar; ½ tsp cream of tartar

Gingerbread icing is the perfect way to add a festive touch to your homemade gingerbread cookies or houses. This icing recipe is simple to make and allows you to create beautiful and delicious decorations.

Photos of Gingerbread Icing Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you might not have cream of tartar readily available at home. This ingredient stabilizes the egg whites and ensures the icing holds its shape. If you're heading to the supermarket, make sure to pick this up along with the powdered sugar.

Ingredients for Gingerbread Icing

egg whites: These provide the base for the icing and help it to set firmly.

powdered sugar: This sweetens the icing and gives it a smooth texture.

cream of tartar: This stabilizes the egg whites and helps the icing hold its shape.

One reader, Dottie Rutkowski says:

This gingerbread icing recipe is fantastic! It’s easy to make and holds its shape perfectly. The icing adds the perfect touch to my gingerbread cookies, making them look and taste amazing. Highly recommend!

Dottie Rutkowski

Techniques for Perfecting Gingerbread Icing

Yes.

How to whip egg whites: Use a mixer to beat the egg whites until they become foamy, which helps incorporate air and provides structure to the icing.

How to incorporate powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the mixture, ensuring it blends smoothly without clumping.

How to pipe icing: Use a piping bag to apply the icing over gingerbread cookies or houses, allowing for precise and decorative designs.

How To Make Gingerbread Icing

This easy-to-follow icing recipe will work amazingly on festive gingerbread cookies and houses! It comes with only 3 ingredients and takes no time to make.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2large egg whites,room temperature
3cupspowdered sugar
½tspcream of tartar

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, whip the egg whites until foamy.
Add the cream of tartar, then continue to mix for 30 seconds.
Add in the powdered sugar a little bit at a time, mixing well.
Once the powdered sugar is incorporated, turn the mixer to high and continue beating for 3 to 5 minutes until thick and the icing holds its shape.
Pipe over gingerbread cookies or houses, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 44.96kcal
Fat: 0.00g
Carbohydrates: 11.27g
Fiber: 0.00g
Sugar: 11.02g
Protein: 0.22g
Sodium: 3.67mg
Calcium: 0.26mg
Potassium: 11.32mg
Iron: 0.01mg

Helpful Technique for Making Gingerbread Icing

To achieve the perfect consistency for your icing, make sure to sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the egg whites. This helps to avoid any lumps and ensures a smooth, glossy finish for your gingerbread cookies or houses.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Gingerbread Icing Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure out egg whites, powdered sugar, and cream of tartar before starting to save time during mixing.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can whip the egg whites and incorporate the powdered sugar faster than a hand mixer.

Sift powdered sugar: Sifting the powdered sugar ensures a smoother icing and reduces mixing time.

Batch preparation: Make a larger batch of icing and store it in an airtight container for future use.

Room temperature ingredients: Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for quicker and more consistent whipping.

Substitute Ingredients For Gingerbread Icing Recipe

egg whites - Substitute with aquafaba: Aquafaba, the liquid from a can of chickpeas, mimics the binding properties of egg whites and is a suitable vegan alternative.
egg whites - Substitute with meringue powder: Meringue powder is made from dried egg whites and can be reconstituted with water, providing a similar texture and stability.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar blended with cornstarch: Blend granulated sugar with a small amount of cornstarch in a blender until it reaches a fine, powdery consistency to mimic powdered sugar.
powdered sugar - Substitute with confectioners' erythritol: Confectioners' erythritol is a low-calorie sweetener that can be used in place of powdered sugar for a sugar-free option.
cream of tartar - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides the acidity needed to stabilize the egg whites, similar to cream of tartar.
cream of tartar - Substitute with white vinegar: White vinegar can also provide the necessary acidity to stabilize the egg whites in the icing.

Presentation Ideas for Gingerbread Icing

Whip the egg whites: In a mixing bowl, whip the egg whites until they become foamy. This step ensures the icing will have a light and airy texture.
Incorporate cream of tartar: Add the cream of tartar to the foamy egg whites and continue to mix for 30 seconds. This stabilizes the icing and helps it hold its shape.
Gradually add powdered sugar: Slowly add the powdered sugar a little bit at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures a smooth and lump-free icing.
Beat until thick: Once all the powdered sugar is incorporated, turn the mixer to high and continue beating for 3 to 5 minutes. The icing should become thick and hold its shape.
Pipe with precision: Use a piping bag to apply the icing over gingerbread cookies or houses. Aim for clean, precise lines to showcase your culinary finesse.

Essential Tools for Making Gingerbread Icing

Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine and whip the ingredients together.
Electric mixer: To whip the egg whites and mix the ingredients thoroughly.
Measuring cups: To measure the powdered sugar accurately.
Measuring spoons: To measure the cream of tartar precisely.
Spatula: To scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl and ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
Piping bag: To pipe the icing onto gingerbread cookies or houses.
Piping tips: To create different designs and patterns with the icing.
Sifter: To sift the powdered sugar, ensuring there are no lumps in the icing.
Stand mixer: An alternative to the electric mixer, providing hands-free mixing.
Whisk: To manually whip the egg whites if an electric mixer is not available.

Storing and Freezing Gingerbread Icing

Once the icing has been piped onto your gingerbread cookies or houses, allow it to set completely at room temperature for at least 2 hours or overnight before storing.
Store the decorated gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
If you want to keep the decorated gingerbread for longer, you can freeze it:
- Place the decorated gingerbread in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 2 hours).
- Once frozen, transfer the gingerbread to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with wax paper or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
To thaw, remove the decorated gingerbread from the freezer and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
If you have leftover icing, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Before using the refrigerated icing, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick mix to restore its consistency.

Interesting Fact About Gingerbread Icing

A random fact about this gingerbread icing recipe is that cream of tartar is a byproduct of winemaking. It helps stabilize the egg whites and gives the icing a smooth, glossy finish.

Is Making Gingerbread Icing at Home Cost-Effective?

This gingerbread icing recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. With just three basic ingredients—egg whites, powdered sugar, and cream of tartar—it offers a delightful touch to your desserts without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $3.50. Overall Verdict: 9/10.

Is Gingerbread Icing Healthy or Unhealthy?

This gingerbread icing recipe, while delicious and perfect for decorating holiday cookies, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients are egg whites and powdered sugar, which are high in sugar and lack nutritional value. Consuming excessive amounts of added sugars can contribute to various health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of powdered sugar used in the recipe. Start by cutting the quantity by one-third and adjust the consistency as needed.
Experiment with natural sweeteners like stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol, which have fewer calories and a lower glycemic index compared to regular sugar.
Incorporate healthier ingredients into the icing, such as unsweetened cocoa powder, matcha powder, or pureed fruits like raspberries or strawberries for added flavor and nutrients.
Use the icing sparingly when decorating cookies, and pair the treats with healthier options like fresh fruits or nuts to balance out the sugar intake.

Editor's Opinion on This Gingerbread Icing Recipe

This gingerbread icing recipe is straightforward and effective, utilizing simple ingredients to achieve a classic result. The cream of tartar helps stabilize the egg whites, ensuring a smooth and glossy finish. Gradually incorporating the powdered sugar is key to avoiding lumps and achieving the right consistency. The final product is versatile, perfect for both intricate piping on gingerbread houses and simple decoration on cookies. Overall, it's a reliable recipe that delivers professional-quality icing with minimal effort.

Enhance Your Gingerbread Icing Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: This velvety soup brings a warm, autumnal flavor that pairs beautifully with the spicy sweetness of gingerbread. The creamy texture and subtle hints of nutmeg and cinnamon will complement your festive treats perfectly.

Cranberry-Orange Relish: Cranberry-Orange Relish: A zesty fruit concoction that adds a burst of tartness and a pop of color to your gingerbread display. The tangy cranberries and citrusy oranges create a refreshing contrast to the rich, spiced icing.

Maple-Glazed Carrots: Maple-Glazed Carrots: These sweet and savory vegetables are roasted to perfection and glazed with maple syrup, offering a delightful balance to the gingerbread icing. The caramelized edges and tender texture make them an irresistible side.

Spiced Apple Cider: Spiced Apple Cider: A warm, comforting beverage that enhances the holiday spirit. Infused with cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, this drink will harmonize with the flavors of your gingerbread creations, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Pecan Praline Ice Cream: Pecan Praline Ice Cream: This creamy dessert features crunchy pecans and a rich praline swirl, providing a cool and luxurious complement to the spiced gingerbread icing. The combination of textures and flavors will leave your taste buds dancing.

Delicious Alternatives to Gingerbread Icing Recipe

Royal Icing: Perfect for decorating cookies and cakes, this classic royal icing recipe uses egg whites and powdered sugar to create a smooth, glossy finish that hardens beautifully.

Sugar Cookie Icing: A simple yet delicious icing that pairs perfectly with sugar cookies. This recipe uses milk, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar for a sweet, creamy finish.

Cream Cheese Frosting: Rich and tangy, this cream cheese frosting is ideal for carrot cakes, red velvet cakes, and cupcakes. It combines cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and a hint of vanilla.

Buttercream Frosting: A versatile and classic frosting that can be used on cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. This recipe blends butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for a creamy, smooth texture.

Why trust this Gingerbread Icing Recipe:

This gingerbread icing recipe is a tried-and-true method that guarantees perfect results every time. Using egg whites ensures a smooth and glossy finish, while cream of tartar stabilizes the mixture for a consistent texture. The gradual addition of powdered sugar allows for precise control over the sweetness and thickness. Perfect for decorating gingerbread cookies or houses, this icing holds its shape beautifully, making your holiday treats look professionally crafted. Trust this recipe for its simplicity and reliability.

Share your favorite gingerbread icing recipe or discuss tips and techniques for creating the perfect icing in the Baking and Desserts forum.

FAQ:

Can I use meringue powder instead of egg whites?

Yes, you can substitute meringue powder for egg whites. Use about 2 tablespoons of meringue powder mixed with 1/4 cup of water to replace the egg whites.

How do I store leftover icing?

Store any leftover icing in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to a week. If it starts to separate, just give it a good stir before using it again.

Can I color the icing?

Absolutely! You can add food coloring to the icing to get the desired color. Gel food colors work best because they don't thin out the icing.

What if my icing is too thick or too thin?

If your icing is too thick, add a few drops of water until you reach the desired consistency. If it's too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.

How long does it take for the icing to dry?

The icing usually takes about 4-6 hours to dry completely, but it can vary depending on the humidity and thickness of the icing. For best results, let it sit overnight.