Active Time

　　10 min

　　Total Time

　　15 min

　　Egg whites act as a stabilizer in this icing, allowing it to harden for decorating the cookies. Because the whites are not cooked, we prefer powdered egg whites, such as Just Whites, which are available in the baking section of most supermarkets.

　　This recipe is an accompaniment for Gingerbread Sbowflakes.

Ingredients

　　1 (1-lb) box confectioners sugar

　　4 teaspoons powdered egg whites (not reconstituted)

　　1/3 cup water

　　1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

　　1 teaspoon vanilla

　　Food coloring (optional)

　　Beat together all ingredients except food coloring in a large bowl with an electric mixer at moderate speed until just combined, about 1 minute. Increase speed to high and beat icing, scraping down side of bowl occasionally, until it holds stiff peaks, about 3 minutes in a standing mixer or 4 to 5 minutes with a handheld. Beat in food coloring (if using). If you plan to spread (rather than pipe) icing on cookies, stir in more water, 1 teaspoon at a time, to thin to desired consistency.