Keeping Decorated Cookies Fresh
Decorated cookies stay at their best when kept in an airtight container at room temperature, layered between sheets of wax paper to prevent the icing from sticking or smearing.
Wait for the cure
Ensure the icing is completely hard to the touch before attempting to store, or the finish will smudge.
- airtight container
- wax paper
- flat tray
Preventing icing transfer
Use wax paper as a buffer between layers; if the cookies are stacked bare, the weight will cause the lower layer of icing to imprint onto the underside of the cookie above.
The method.
Complete the cure
Leave iced cookies on a cooling rack for at least 8 to 12 hours. If the icing remains soft, humidity will trap moisture and soften the cookie base.
Prepare the container
Line the bottom of a hard-sided plastic or metal tin with wax paper. Soft bags lead to crushed decorations.
Layer carefully
Place cookies in a single layer. Top with another sheet of wax paper before adding the next level. Avoid overfilling, which can cause the top layer to crack against the lid.
Seal and store
Store in a cool, dry cupboard away from direct sunlight, which fades food coloring and softens butter-based icings.
Other turns to take.
Freezing
For long-term storage, freeze in a heavy-duty container for up to three months. Thaw inside the container to prevent condensation from forming on the cold icing.
When it doesn't go to plan.
Never store warm cookies, or steam will create condensation that ruins royal icing finish.
Avoid the refrigerator; the high humidity will make the cookies limp and the sugar icing tacky.
Keep crisp cookies separate from soft-baked cookies, as moisture migrates between them and ruins the texture of both.
The ones that keep coming up.
Why did my icing become sticky after a few days?
This happens when the container isn't truly airtight or the room is too humid. Use a container with a rubber gasket seal.
How real cooks make it.
No one’s shared their version yet. Be the first to put your kitchen on the map.
Cook this your way?
Share your version — your steps, your story. We’ll feature it right here.
Add your recipe