Use this fluffy icing to pipe writing and decorations onto cookies and cakes. Meringue powder, which contains dried eggs and sugar and often some kind of food starch, is an essential ingredient for the icing. Look for it with cake-decorating supplies in crafts stores or large supermarkets.

Start to Finish: 10 minutes  

3 tbsp. meringue powder
1/3 cup warm water
1  16-oz. pkg. powdered sugar, sifted (4 1/2 cups)
1  tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. cream of tartar
Paste food coloring

1. In large bowl combine meringue powder and water; add powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream of tartar. Beat with an electric mixer on low speed until combined; beat on high speed for 7 to 10 minutes or until very stiff.

2. Divide icing and tint with paste food coloring as desired. Place in pastry bags fitted with decorating tips. Pipe icing onto cookies or cakes. When not using icing, keep it covered with clear plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Thin icing with water to use as a glaze. Makes 3 cups.

Make-Ahead Tip: Cover icing with a damp cloth or white paper towel; cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store in the refrigerator up to 24 hours.