To achieve a vibrant gold color on royal icing, based on the provided steps, you don't dye the icing itself but rather paint a gold mixture onto the dried design. This method uses gold luster dust mixed with a liquid to create an edible paint.
Here is the process:
Making Royal Icing Gold
The technique described involves applying a gold paint after the royal icing has set.
Step 1: Prepare and Dry Your Design
First, you need to create your design using royal icing.
- Pipe the design onto your cookie, cake, or other treat using a piping bag fitted with your desired tip.
- Allow the piped royal icing design to dry completely. This is crucial so that the paint can be applied cleanly without damaging the structure.
Step 2: Mix the Gold Luster Paint
While your royal icing is drying, prepare your edible gold paint.
- In a small bowl, combine gold luster dust with a liquid.
- Suitable liquids include alcohol (like vodka or clear extract) or clear extract (such as lemon extract). The alcohol or extract evaporates quickly, leaving just the shimmer of the luster dust behind.
- Mix the luster dust and liquid until you achieve a paint consistency. You may need to adjust the ratio of dust to liquid to get the desired opacity and flow.
Step 3: Paint the Royal Icing
Once the royal icing design is fully dry, you can apply the gold paint.
- Using a food-safe paintbrush, carefully paint the gold mixture onto the dried royal icing areas you want to color gold.
- Apply in thin, even coats. You can apply additional coats if needed to achieve a more intense gold color, allowing each layer to dry slightly in between.
Summary Table:
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Pipe & Dry Icing | Pipe royal icing design; let dry completely. | Provides a stable surface for painting. |
| Mix Gold Paint | Combine gold luster dust with alcohol/extract. | Creates an edible gold paint mixture. |
| Paint Dried Icing | Apply gold mixture onto dried royal icing design. | Adds the desired gold color and shimmer. |
This method allows for precise application and creates a beautiful, metallic gold finish on your royal icing decorations.
