Royal Icing

If using meringue powder, in a bowl, combine the meringue powder and 2 tablespoons water, stir well, and set aside to soak for 30 minutes.

In a bowl, combine the egg white or soaked meringue powder and sugar and beat with a hand mixer at low speed until blended.

If using for a glaze, add the lemon juice, increase the mixer speed to high, and beat until creamy and shiny, about 2 minutes. Add enough food coloring (if using) to achieve desired color. Quickly pour or spoon the glaze over the cake.

If using for decorations or writing, increase the mixer speed to high and beat until stiff, very shiny peaks form when the beater is lifted, about 6 minutes. Add enough food coloring (if using) to achieve desired color, or divide the icing among small bowls and tint with the various colors as desired. Spoon some of the icing into a pastry bag and use immediately for decorating or writing; cover bowl(s) of remaining icing with a damp cloth to keep from drying out.