Royal Icing

From Better Homes & Garden - The Best Sugar Cookies4 cups powdered sugar
3 tablespoons meringue powder
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 tablespoons water
Assorted colors paste food coloring (optional)

In a large bowl, combine powdered sugar, meringue powder, and cream of tartar.
Add the 1/2 cup water and the vanilla.
Beat with an electric mixer on low speed until combined, then on high speed for 7 to 10 minutes or until very stiff.
Add the 2 to 4 tablespoons water, 1 teaspoon at a time, to make an icing of spreading consistency.
If desired, divide icing into individual bowls and tint with paste food coloring.

Enough for 3 dozen cookies