Can You Use Ready Made Icing for Cookies? A Comprehensive Guide

Baking cookies is a delightful activity, often sparking joy and creativity. But when it comes to decorating, the prospect of making icing from scratch can sometimes feel daunting. That’s where ready made icing comes in, offering a convenient alternative. But can you really use it for cookies? The short answer is yes, but there’s a lot more to consider to ensure your cookies look and taste fantastic. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about using ready made icing for cookies, from the different types available to tips and tricks for achieving professional-looking results.

Table of Contents

Understanding Ready Made Icing Options

The world of ready made icing is surprisingly diverse. Understanding the different types is crucial for selecting the right one for your cookie decorating project. Each type has its own unique characteristics in terms of consistency, flavor, and how it sets.

Canned Frosting: The Classic Choice

Canned frosting, often found in the baking aisle, is perhaps the most readily available type of ready made icing. Brands like Betty Crocker, Duncan Hines, and Pillsbury offer a wide variety of flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous options like cream cheese and salted caramel.

Canned frosting is generally quite thick and creamy, making it ideal for spreading evenly over cookies. However, its consistency can also be a drawback. It may not be suitable for intricate designs or detailed piping work. It is best for simple cookie decorating projects.

The sugar content in canned frosting is generally high, which can make cookies incredibly sweet. Some people may find this overpowering, while others will relish the extra sugar rush.

Icing Tubes and Pens: Precision and Convenience

Icing tubes and pens are designed for precision decorating. They usually contain a thinner consistency icing that is easier to pipe. They often come with various tips for creating different line thicknesses and patterns.

These are excellent for outlining cookies, adding details like dots and swirls, and writing messages. While they may not be ideal for covering large areas, they are a fantastic tool for adding finesse to your cookie creations.

The flavors available in icing tubes and pens may be more limited compared to canned frosting, but you can still find popular choices like vanilla, chocolate, and red.

Royal Icing Mixes: The DIY-ish Option

Royal icing is a classic choice for cookie decorating. It dries hard and smooth, making it ideal for detailed designs and flooding cookies. While traditionally made from scratch using egg whites or meringue powder, powdered sugar, and water, you can also find ready made royal icing mixes.

These mixes offer a good compromise between convenience and control. You simply add water to the mix, and you can adjust the consistency to suit your needs. Royal icing is particularly well-suited for decorating cookies that will be stacked or packaged, as it doesn’t smudge easily once dry.

Royal icing mixes generally have a neutral flavor, which allows the taste of the cookie to shine through. You can also add flavor extracts to customize the taste of the icing.

Pre-Made Royal Icing: Ultimate Convenience

For those seeking the ultimate in convenience, pre-made royal icing is available. This comes ready to use, often in a tub or piping bag.

The advantage is clear: no mixing, no adjusting consistency. You simply open the container and start decorating. This is a great option for beginners or anyone short on time.

However, the downside is that you have less control over the consistency and flavor. The selection of colors and flavors might also be limited compared to making your own or using a mix.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Ready Made Icing

Selecting the right ready made icing for your cookies involves considering several key factors. Think about the look you want to achieve, the time you have available, and your taste preferences.

Desired Decoration Style

Are you aiming for simple, frosted cookies or intricate, detailed designs? Canned frosting is best for simple spreading. Icing tubes and pens are ideal for adding fine details. Royal icing, whether from a mix or pre-made, is the go-to choice for flooding and detailed work that requires a hard, smooth finish.

Flavor Compatibility

Think about how the flavor of the icing will complement the flavor of your cookies. Classic vanilla frosting is a safe bet that pairs well with most cookie flavors. Chocolate frosting is a natural choice for chocolate cookies or peanut butter cookies. If you’re making lemon cookies, a lemon-flavored icing or a simple glaze might be the perfect complement.

Time Constraints

If you’re short on time, pre-made royal icing or canned frosting will be your quickest options. Royal icing mixes require a bit more effort, as you’ll need to mix them with water and adjust the consistency. Icing tubes and pens are quick to use, but covering a large batch of cookies with them can be time-consuming.

Ease of Use

For beginners, canned frosting and icing tubes and pens are generally the easiest to use. Royal icing can be a bit trickier to work with, especially when it comes to achieving the right consistency for flooding. However, with a little practice, anyone can master the art of royal icing.

Cost

The cost of ready made icing can vary depending on the type and brand. Canned frosting is generally the most affordable option, while pre-made royal icing tends to be the most expensive. Royal icing mixes offer a cost-effective middle ground.

Tips and Tricks for Using Ready Made Icing on Cookies

Even with ready made icing, a few tips and tricks can help you achieve professional-looking results. From preparing your cookies to mastering the art of flooding, these techniques will elevate your cookie decorating game.

Prepare Your Cookies Properly

Make sure your cookies are completely cool before you start icing them. Icing will melt on warm cookies, resulting in a messy finish. Bake even cookies so they will stack nicely and look more professional.

Achieving the Right Consistency

This is particularly important when working with royal icing. For flooding, you want a consistency that is thin enough to spread easily but thick enough to hold its shape. A good rule of thumb is the “10-second rule”: if you drop a spoonful of icing back into the bowl, it should take about 10 seconds for the line to disappear.

If your icing is too thick, add a few drops of water at a time, mixing well after each addition. If it’s too thin, add a small amount of powdered sugar.

Using Piping Bags and Tips

Piping bags and tips are essential tools for detailed decorating. Fill the piping bag only halfway to avoid making a mess. Twist the top of the bag to seal it, and apply pressure from the top to pipe the icing.

Experiment with different tips to create various effects. A small round tip is perfect for outlining and writing, while a larger round tip is ideal for filling in large areas. Star tips can be used to create borders and decorative elements.

Mastering the Art of Flooding

Flooding is a technique used to create a smooth, even base of icing on your cookies. First, outline the cookie with a thicker consistency icing. Then, flood the center with a thinner consistency icing. Use a toothpick or scribe tool to spread the icing evenly and pop any air bubbles.

Adding Details and Embellishments

Once the base icing has dried, you can add details and embellishments using icing tubes, pens, or sprinkles. Get creative and experiment with different colors, patterns, and textures.

Drying and Storing Your Decorated Cookies

Allow the icing to dry completely before stacking or packaging your cookies. Royal icing can take several hours to dry completely. To speed up the drying process, you can use a fan to circulate air.

Store decorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as the icing can become sticky.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best techniques, you may encounter some common issues when using ready made icing. Here’s how to troubleshoot them.

Icing is Too Thick

Add a few drops of water at a time, mixing well after each addition, until you reach the desired consistency.

Icing is Too Thin

Add a small amount of powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition, until you reach the desired consistency.

Icing is Cracking

This can happen if the icing dries too quickly. Try adding a small amount of glycerin to the icing to help prevent cracking.

Icing is Not Sticking to the Cookie

Make sure your cookies are completely cool before icing them. If the cookies are oily, try wiping them with a paper towel before applying the icing.

Colors are Bleeding

Use gel food coloring instead of liquid food coloring, as it is more concentrated and less likely to cause bleeding. Also, allow each layer of icing to dry completely before adding another layer.

Enhancing Ready Made Icing

While ready made icing is convenient, you can enhance its flavor and appearance with a few simple additions.

Adding Flavor Extracts

Add a few drops of your favorite flavor extract to customize the taste of the icing. Vanilla, almond, lemon, and peppermint extracts are all popular choices.

Using Food Coloring

Gel food coloring is the best option for coloring icing, as it is highly concentrated and won’t change the consistency of the icing. Add a small amount of food coloring at a time, mixing well after each addition, until you reach the desired color.

Adding Sprinkles and Decorations

Sprinkles, edible glitter, and other decorations can add a festive touch to your cookies. Apply them while the icing is still wet so they adhere properly.

Creating Custom Colors

Mix different food colorings together to create custom colors. Use a color wheel as a guide to help you choose complementary colors.

In conclusion, using ready made icing for cookies is absolutely a viable option. By understanding the different types of icing available, considering the factors that influence your choice, and following these tips and tricks, you can create beautifully decorated cookies with ease and efficiency. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, ready made icing can be a valuable tool in your cookie decorating arsenal.

Can I use ready-made icing directly on cookies without any preparation?

Generally, yes, you can use ready-made icing directly on cookies. Most store-bought icings are formulated to be user-friendly and ready to go. However, depending on the brand and type of icing (e.g., frosting, glaze, decorating icing), the consistency might need slight adjustments. For example, if the icing is too thick, it might be difficult to spread smoothly, while if it’s too thin, it could run off the edges of your cookies.

Before applying, it’s always a good idea to give the icing a good stir to ensure it’s homogenous and to break down any air pockets. You can then test a small amount on a cookie to check its consistency and spreadability. If needed, adjust the consistency as described in the next questions. This simple step ensures a more professional and aesthetically pleasing result.

How do I thin ready-made icing if it’s too thick for cookie decorating?

If your ready-made icing is too thick, the most common solution is to add a small amount of liquid. The best liquids to use are water, milk, or lemon juice. Start with a tiny amount, perhaps a teaspoon at a time, and thoroughly mix it into the icing. Keep adding liquid gradually until you achieve the desired consistency. Remember, it’s easier to add more liquid than to take it away, so err on the side of caution.

After each addition of liquid, stir the icing well and check the consistency. The ideal consistency for spreading icing is one that easily glides over the cookie’s surface without being too runny. For flooding icing, you’ll want a thinner consistency that self-levels. Different decorating techniques require different consistencies, so adjust accordingly. Be mindful that adding too much liquid can make the icing too thin and difficult to work with.

Can I thicken ready-made icing if it’s too thin?

Yes, you can definitely thicken ready-made icing that is too thin. The most common way to thicken icing is by adding powdered sugar, also known as confectioner’s sugar. Start with a small amount, like a tablespoon, and mix it in thoroughly. Be sure to use a fine mesh sieve to sift the powdered sugar to avoid any lumps in your icing. Lumps can cause uneven spreading and a less-than-perfect finish.

Continue adding powdered sugar gradually until you reach the desired consistency. Stir well after each addition to ensure the sugar is fully incorporated. The consistency you’re aiming for will depend on your decorating needs. For example, piping requires a thicker icing than flooding. Remember to be patient and add the powdered sugar slowly, as adding too much too quickly can result in a grainy or overly sweet icing.

What types of ready-made icing are best for cookies?

Several types of ready-made icing are suitable for decorating cookies, each with its own advantages. Royal icing is a popular choice due to its smooth finish and ability to harden completely, making it ideal for intricate designs and stacking cookies. Decorating icing tubes or squeeze bottles offer convenience and precision for detailed work. Frosting, often found in tubs, provides a classic, creamy texture that is great for covering the entire cookie.

The best type of icing for you will depend on your desired aesthetic, level of decorating skill, and the occasion. Royal icing requires more practice to master but allows for the most detailed designs. Frosting is easiest to use but may not hold intricate details as well. Consider also the flavor of the icing and how it complements your cookie recipe. Experimenting with different types is a great way to find your favorite.

How long will ready-made icing last on cookies?

The longevity of ready-made icing on cookies depends on several factors, including the type of icing, storage conditions, and humidity levels. Royal icing, once hardened, can last for several days to a week or more at room temperature, provided the cookies are stored in an airtight container. Frosting, due to its higher moisture content, may soften over time and is best consumed within a few days.

To maximize the shelf life of your iced cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid refrigerating cookies decorated with icing, as this can cause the icing to sweat and become sticky. For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies before icing them. Thaw completely before decorating. Always check the expiration date on the ready-made icing container for specific storage recommendations.

Can I color ready-made icing with food coloring?

Absolutely! Coloring ready-made icing with food coloring is a simple way to create a variety of festive designs for your cookies. Gel food coloring is generally preferred over liquid food coloring because it is more concentrated and won’t alter the consistency of the icing as much. Liquid food coloring can sometimes make the icing too thin, especially if you’re trying to achieve a deep, vibrant color.

When adding food coloring, start with a small amount, such as a drop or two, and mix thoroughly. Add more coloring gradually until you reach the desired shade. Remember that the color will often deepen slightly as the icing sits, so it’s best to err on the side of caution. Different brands of food coloring will produce slightly different results, so it’s always a good idea to test the color on a small amount of icing first.

Are there any tricks to make ready-made icing look more professional on cookies?

Yes, several tricks can elevate the appearance of cookies decorated with ready-made icing. Firstly, ensure your cookies have a smooth, even surface before applying the icing. This provides a better canvas for your designs. Use a piping bag and various tips to create different effects, such as outlines, borders, and intricate details. Practice your piping techniques on parchment paper before decorating the actual cookies.

Secondly, consider using sanding sugar, sprinkles, or edible glitter to add visual interest and texture to your iced cookies. These embellishments can easily transform a simple design into something more elaborate. Finally, strive for consistency in your icing application. Whether you’re spreading, piping, or flooding, aim for a uniform thickness and smooth surface. Patience and practice are key to achieving a professional-looking finish.