How to Add Metallic Accents to Royal Icing Decorated Cookies

 How to Add Metallic Accents to Royal Icing Decorated Cookies

Decorating cookies with royal icing is an art form that allows for a lot of creativity and personalization. Adding metallic accents can take your cookie designs to the next level, giving them a sophisticated and professional finish. Whether you're preparing for a special occasion or simply want to elevate your baking game, metallic accents are a stunning addition. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this look and different ways how you can add some magic touches to your cookies in an easy way. 

Materials You'll Need:

• Royal icing (magic consistency and colored as desired)
• Baked and cooled cookies
• Edible metallic paint (gold, silver, copper, etc.)
• Fine-tipped paintbrush
• Food-safe brushes
• Vodka or clear extract (like lemon or vanilla)
• Small mixing bowl or palette

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Cookies and Royal Icing: Ensure your cookies are baked and completely cooled before you begin decorating. Prepare your magic consistency royal icing in your desired colors. For metallic accents, it’s often best to work on a base layer of royal icing that has been allowed to dry completely.
2. Base Layer of Royal Icing: Apply the base layer of royal icing to your cookies using a piping bag or squeeze bottle. Spread the icing evenly and use a scribe tool or toothpick to smooth out any bubbles or imperfections. Allow the icing to dry completely. This may take several hours, or overnight, depending on the humidity.
3. Mix Your Metallic Paint: In a small bowl or palette, mix your edible metallic paint. If using powder, combine it with a few drops of vodka or clear extract. The alcohol will evaporate quickly, leaving a smooth, shiny metallic finish. Adjust the consistency as needed – it should be thick enough to coat evenly but thin enough to apply smoothly.  
4. Apply the Metallic Accents: Using a fine-tipped brush, gently dip it into the metallic paint. Carefully apply the paint to the areas of your cookie where you want the metallic accents. You can add details such as outlines, dots, stripes, or even intricate patterns. Work slowly and steadily for the best results.
5. Allow to Dry: Let the metallic paint dry completely. This usually takes about 15-30 minutes, but it can vary depending on the thickness of the paint and the humidity. Avoid touching the painted areas until they are fully dry to prevent smudging.
6. Finishing Touches: Once the metallic accents are dry, you can add any final touches or additional decorations to your cookies. Consider adding a second layer of metallic paint for a more intense shine or incorporating other colors and details to complete your design.

Tips and Tricks:

• Practice Makes Perfect: If you’re new to using metallic accents, practice on a piece of parchment paper or a spare cookie to get a feel for the technique.
• Use High-Quality Edible Metallic Paints: For the best results, invest in high-quality edible metallic paints, my favorite is the luster dust form CK. These will provide a more vibrant and long-lasting finish.
• Experiment with Different Tools: In addition to fine-tipped brushes, try using sponges, stencils, or airbrush techniques to create different effects and textures.

Adding metallic accents to royal icing decorated cookies is a fantastic way to make your baked creations stand out. With a little practice and the right materials, you can create stunning, professional-looking cookies that will impress everyone who sees (and tastes) them.  Next post I will share another way to add a metallic touch to your cookies. Happy decorating!