Vegan Royal Icing is smooth, glossy, and hardens beautifully, perfect for decorating cookies or building gingerbread houses during the holidays. It’s made with just a few pantry staples and can be tinted or flavored however you like.
Eggless Royal Frosting Recipe
I like this icing because it’s reliable and easy to work with. It pipes clean lines, holds its shape for perfectly formed “icicles” hanging from the roof of a gingerbread house, and sets firm enough for structural decorating while still having a slight sheen once dry.
Unlike traditional royal icing made with egg whites or meringue powder, this eggless version uses corn syrup for stability, making it safe for everyone to enjoy.
It also doesn’t dry out too fast while you’re using it, especially if you keep a damp cloth over the bowl between batches. Small batches are best, and this icing is easy to mix up as needed. It dries quickly, so using it soon after making gives the best results.
This recipe makes about ½ cup of icing—perfect for decorating a batch of cookies or a small gingerbread project. If you need more, simply double or triple the ingredients.
Ingredients for Vegan Royal Icing
Here’s what you’ll need. Exact amounts are listed in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
Confectioners’ Sugar (Powdered Sugar) – The base of the icing that gives it structure and sweetness.
Water – Just enough to bring the icing together and control the consistency.
Light Corn Syrup – Adds shine and a smooth texture while helping the icing harden evenly.
Almond Extract – Adds a hint of flavor; swap with lemon, peppermint, or vanilla if you prefer something different.
How to Make Vegan Royal Icing
STEP ONE: Combine Dry Ingredients.
In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the confectioners’ sugar and water.
STEP TWO: Add Flavor and Corn Syrup.
Add light corn syrup and almond extract. Stir until everything is fully incorporated and thick.
STEP THREE: Adjust Consistency.
If needed, add more confectioners’ sugar for a thicker icing or a small amount of water for a thinner consistency.
STEP FOUR: Add Color (Optional).
Mix in food coloring one drop at a time until you reach the shade you want.
STEP FIVE: Use and Store.
Use the icing right away for the best texture and shine. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth while working to prevent the mixture from hardening too quickly.
Storing Royal Icing
- Store unused icing in an airtight container at room temperature and use within 4–6 hours. The icing will begin to harden if left uncovered.
Recipe FAQ
How can I adjust the consistency of the icing?
- If you find your project requires a thicker or thinner icing, the consistency can be easily adjusted. To increase the thickness, simply add more confectioners’ sugar. For a thinner icing, add more water a teaspoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
What if I need a different color icing?
- Simply stir in a few drops of food coloring at a time until you reach your desired shade.
Can I substitute a different flavor extract?
- Yes! Try lemon, orange, peppermint, or vanilla in place of almond extract; whatever best matches your cookies or holiday theme.
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Vegan Royal Icing Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (powdered sugar)
- 3 teaspoons water
- 2 teaspoons light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the confectioners’ sugar and water.
- Add light corn syrup and almond extract. Stir until everything is fully incorporated and thick.
- If needed, add more confectioners’ sugar for a thicker icing or a small amount of water for a thinner consistency.
- (Optional) Mix in food coloring one drop at a time until you reach the shade you want.
- Use the icing right away for the best texture and shine. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth while working to prevent the mixture from hardening too quickly.
This post was updated October 31, 2025.
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