Royal Icing

Directions

1. 1
   In large bowl, sift sugar and cream of tartar.
2. 2
   Add egg whites.
3. 3
   Beat with electric mixer at low speed until blended.
4. 4
   Tint with food coloring if desired.
5. 5
   Increase speed to high and beat until icing has thickened and holds peaks, 8 to 10 minutes.
6. 6
   Pipe decoratively onto cookies or thin with a little water and paint over cookies.
7. 7
   (Keep icing covered with damp tea towel to prevent it from drying out.)