Frosting Paint

Prep: 10 min

Frosting paint creates vibrant, decorative designs on baked cookies, perfect for festive occasions or creative baking projects. Light, sweet, and easy to customize with water.

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Ingredients

  • 5 c. powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp. cream of tartar
  • 4 egg whites

Instructions

  1. Beat the powdered sugar, cream of tartar, and egg whites with a mixer until smooth and glossy.
  2. Paint or spread the frosting on baked cookies.
  3. Thin the frosting with water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
  4. Let the painted frosting dry completely before stacking or storing the cookies.

Tips & Substitutions

For a vibrant color, consider using gel food coloring instead of liquid, as it won't alter the texture. If you're out of cream of tartar, lemon juice or vinegar can be used as a substitute to stabilize the egg whites. Ensure your mixing bowl is completely clean and dry to achieve the best volume when beating the egg whites. For a fun twist, try adding flavor extracts like almond or vanilla.

Serving Suggestions

This frosting paint is perfect for decorating cookies, especially sugar cookies or gingerbread. It pairs beautifully with Barboursville Almond Macaroons for a delightful dessert platter. For added fun, let kids paint their own designs on cookies at a party or gathering. Consider serving alongside a selection of vibrant fruits or a variety of homemade candies.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature and re-whip briefly to restore its smooth consistency. Avoid freezing as it may change the texture upon thawing.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Frosting Paint contains roughly 1226 calories, with 12g protein and 301g carbohydrates. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value).

1226 kcal 61% DV

Macronutrients

Protein 12.2g 24% DV
Total Fat 0g
Carbs 300.9g 100% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 294.2g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 198.3mg 9% DV
Potassium 277.9mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Calcium 12.4mg 1% DV
Iron 0.2mg 1% DV
Contains Milk Egg

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 use this frosting paint on cakes?

Yes, you can use this frosting paint on cakes, but keep in mind that it will dry hard. It's best for decorating cookies or thin cakes where a glossy finish is desired. If using on thicker layers, consider using a softer frosting beneath to maintain moisture.

What if my frosting is too thick?

If your frosting is too thick, gradually add a few drops of water, mixing well until you reach the desired consistency. Remember to do this slowly to avoid making it too runny. For a stiffer consistency, you can add a little more powdered sugar.

How can I achieve vibrant colors in my frosting paint?

To achieve vibrant colors, use gel food coloring instead of liquid dyes. Gel colors are more concentrated and won't affect the consistency of your frosting. Start with a small amount and mix well, adding more until you reach the desired shade.

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).

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