Which statement accurately describes the nature of royal icing once dried?

Royal icing is known for its ability to dry into a hard, smooth surface, which is essential for various decorative applications in pastry and confectionery. Once fully dried, royal icing becomes rigid and glass-like, making it ideal for intricate decorations on cakes, cookies, and other desserts. This hard and brittle texture allows creators to pipe detailed designs that hold their shape without collapsing, enabling precise artistry.

The other answer options describe characteristics that do not align with the properties of royal icing once it dries. Royal icing is not soft and pliable when set, as it loses flexibility and can break easily. It does not maintain moisture or a chewy texture after drying; in fact, it becomes completely firm and dry. Additionally, royal icing does not have a fluffy and light quality; it has a dense consistency that allows it to be molded into specific shapes for decoration.