Royal icing is primarily used for what purpose in baking?

Royal icing is primarily used for decorative work in baking. Known for its smooth and glossy finish, royal icing is made from egg whites (or meringue powder), sugar, and water. This unique consistency allows it to be piped into intricate designs, making it ideal for decorating cookies, cakes, and other confections.

One of the standout characteristics of royal icing is its ability to harden once dried, creating a sturdy layer that can support the decoration while also providing a beautiful aesthetic. This is why it is popularly used for creating elaborate designs, such as lacework on cakes or detailed decorations on cookies, particularly during festive occasions and special events.

Baking cakes is not the primary use for royal icing; instead, other components like batter are used in that context. While royal icing adds sweetness and decoration, its primary role is not as a sweetening agent for fillings, which typically involve other types of icing or pastry creams. Finally, while it does provide some structural support when dry, its main purpose lies in its decorative capabilities, making it a favorite among bakers looking to create visually stunning edible art.