Yes, you can use meringue powder as a substitute for fresh egg whites when making royal icing or frosting for piping. Meringue powder is a common ingredient in royal icing recipes and is a convenient alternative to using raw egg whites, especially if you are concerned about food safety or if you need a longer shelf life for your icing.
Meringue powder is made from dried egg whites, stabilizers, and sugar, and it reconstitutes easily with water. When whipped, it creates a stable and smooth meringue, just like fresh egg whites. The stabilizers in meringue powder help the icing to maintain its shape, making it ideal for piping intricate designs on cookies, cakes, and other desserts.
To use meringue powder in place of fresh egg whites for royal icing, follow the instructions on the meringue powder packaging, as the proportions may vary slightly among different brands. Typically, you'll mix the meringue powder with water according to the package instructions until it reaches the desired consistency, and then add powdered sugar to achieve the right texture for piping.
Keep in mind that royal icing made with meringue powder may have a slightly different taste compared to the one made with fresh egg whites, but it's a reliable and safe option for most applications. Additionally, using meringue powder ensures that your icing will be less susceptible to issues related to egg safety, such as salmonella contamination, which can be a concern when using raw egg whites in recipes that won't be cooked.