Royal Icing

This is the most perfect cookie icing.

Ingredients:
1 lb (4 c.), powdered sugar, sifted
3 Tbsp meringue powder
4-6 Tbsp water (warning: the amount of water really varies--just keep adding slowly until you have an icing consistency

Note: All tools (mixer, bowl, spatula, paddle) must be completely free of any grease/fat or the icing will turn to water and you will have to start over.

Directions:
-In bowl of large stand mixer, fitted with paddle attachment, add powdered sugar, meringue powder, and 4 Tbsp water.
-Turn mixer on medium speed and slowly add more water as necessary for icing to just come together (about 1 more).
-Turn mixer on high and beat for 7-10 minutes, or until the sheen comes off of the icing.
-Use immediately and place a damp towel over any remaining icing as this stuff dries quickly!

From here you can add food coloring to change the color of the icing and if you are doing detail work, just put in an icing bag and you are good to go!

(recipe adapted from goodthingscatered.blogspot.com)