Best 7 Minute White Icing
A light, fluffy white icing with a sweet marshmallow flavor, perfect for decorating cakes and cupcakes, suitable for quick frosting needs and festive treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, unbeaten egg whites, water, cream of tartar, and salt in the upper part of a double boiler.
- Place over boiling water and beat constantly with an electric mixer until the icing stands in peaks, about 7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and quickly add 1 cup of miniature marshmallows.
- Beat several minutes until smooth and then ice the cake.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best results, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for optimal volume. If you don't have cream of tartar, lemon juice can be a substitute to stabilize the egg whites. Beat the mixture constantly to prevent it from cooking too quickly. If you want a flavored icing, consider adding different extracts like almond or lemon instead of vanilla.
Serving Suggestions
This 7 Minute White Icing is perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or even cookies. It pairs beautifully with chocolate cake or vanilla pound cake for a delightful contrast. Consider dusting with cocoa powder or sprinkles for added decoration. For a more festive touch, serve alongside seasonal desserts like Holiday Gingerbread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If the icing hardens, you can rewhip it with a little water to restore its fluffy texture. Avoid refrigerating as it may change the consistency and make it grainy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best 7 Minute White Icing contains roughly 287 calories, with 4g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1880mg per serving (82% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this icing ahead of time?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered at room temperature. If it thickens, rewhip it lightly before using. However, it may lose some of its volume over time, so aim to use it shortly after making.
What should I do if my icing doesn't hold peaks?
If your icing doesn't stand in peaks, it might be due to under-beating or the egg whites not being at the right temperature. Make sure to beat continuously and ensure there are no traces of yolk in the egg whites. If necessary, reheat the mixture gently while continuing to beat.
Can I use this icing for decorating?
Yes, this icing is excellent for decorating cakes and cupcakes due to its glossy finish and smooth texture. However, it may not hold up as well in humid conditions. For intricate designs, consider using Royal Icing for better durability and stability.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).