Bloomin' Bouquets

Add Royal Icing

As an alternative, use royal icing
to write a message to special
friends.

• 3 tablespoons meringue powder
• 1/3 cup warm water
• 1 16-ounce package powdered sugar, sifted (4-1/2 cups)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• Paste food color

1. Combine meringue powder, water, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream of tartar in a small mixer bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on low speed until combined, then on high speed for 7 to 10 minutes or until very stiff. Use at once.

2. Divide icing; tint with paste food color as desired. When not using icing, keep it covered with clear plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Makes 3 cups.

3. Fill a decorator tube with Royal Icing and make dots, squiggles, half circles, and stars on the cookies. Allow to dry completely.