Ingredients:
- 3 egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the egg whites, cream of tartar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water and bring to a boil over medium heat while stirring, so all of the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes clear and amber in color.
3. Remove from the heat and allow it to cool for a minute.
4. With the mixer running on low, gradually pour the hot sugar mixture in a steady stream into the whipped egg white mixture.
5. Beat on high until the meringue is glossy and stiff peaks form, usually around 5-10 minutes.
6. Once your foam icing is stiff and shiny, it is ready to use!
Tips for Making Foam Icing:
- To make sure your egg whites are beaten properly, check to make sure they can form stiff peaks. If they're not quite stiff enough, continue to beat them for a few more seconds.
- When pouring the hot sugar mixture in gradually, be sure to add it slowly to prevent the egg whites from curdling.
- Foam icing holds up well to hot and humid conditions. This makes it a great frosting choice for summer parties.
- If your icing seems to be a bit too stiff once you've reached the stiff peak, gradually add a teaspoon or two of water. Be sure to adjust carefully and avoid adding too much!