Lemon Or Orange Icing
A zesty and smooth lemon or orange icing with bright citrus flavors, perfect for cakes, pastries, or as a sweet glaze for desserts. Suitable for citrus lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, cornstarch, salt, and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Add butter, lemon juice, and grated lemon rinds to the mixture.
- Beat egg yolks separately and add half of the hot mixture to the yolks to temper.
- Pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
- Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until thickened.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a smoother icing, ensure all dry ingredients are well combined before adding water. You can substitute lemon juice with orange juice for a different flavor, or use agave syrup instead of sugar for a healthier option. If you prefer a thicker icing, let it cool slightly after boiling to allow it to set further. This icing pairs beautifully with Wonderful Blueberry Muffins.
Serving Suggestions
This lemon icing is perfect for drizzling over cakes, cupcakes, or even pancakes. It complements lemon-flavored desserts beautifully, adding a zesty finish. Consider using it to top a slice of Lea'S Corn Bread or as a dip for fruit. For added flair, garnish with additional grated lemon rind before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. When ready to use, gently reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until it reaches the desired consistency. Be careful not to overheat it, as this may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Or Orange Icing contains roughly 444 calories, with 16g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1817mg per serving (79% 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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the icing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to reheat it gently before using to restore its smooth texture. This is especially useful if you're planning to decorate cakes or pastries for a special occasion.
What can I do if my icing is too thick?
If your icing turns out too thick, you can thin it out by adding a small amount of water while reheating it. Stir continuously until you reach your desired consistency. This method ensures the icing remains smooth and easy to work with.
Is this icing suitable for vegan diets?
This recipe is not vegan due to the use of egg yolks. However, you can create a vegan version by using a commercial egg replacer or silken tofu instead of egg yolks, and adjusting the recipe accordingly. This way, you can still enjoy a delicious icing while adhering to vegan guidelines.
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).