
A historical dessert from The White House cook book; a comprehensive cyclopedia of information for the home .. (1913).
Preserved exactly as written in the original source
Soak one teaspoonful of gelatine in one tablespoonful of cold water half an hour
dissolve in two tablespoonfuls of hot water
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add one cup of powdered sugar and stir until smooth
Modern guidance to help you succeed with this vintage recipe
Blooming the gelatin in cold water first allows the protein strands to absorb moisture and swell evenly before heating, preventing clumps. When dissolved in hot water, these hydrated proteins form a network that stabilizes the sugar structure, creating a frosting that sets firm yet remains spreadable. This technique produces a smooth, glossy finish that holds its shape better than simple powdered sugar glazes while remaining shelf-stable.
This frosting cannot be made ahead as it sets quickly once mixed. However, you can bloom the gelatin in cold water up to 1 hour before use, keeping it at room temperature until ready to dissolve and complete the recipe.
Once applied to a cake or cookies, store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 1 week. The gelatin-stabilized frosting is shelf-stable and does not require refrigeration. If the frosting becomes too firm, it cannot be successfully reheated or softened.
AI-generated tips from Chef Cecil's culinary database
This frosting cannot be made ahead as it sets quickly once mixed. However, you can bloom the gelatin in cold water up to 1 hour before use, keeping it at room temperature until ready to dissolve and complete the recipe.
Once applied to a cake or cookies, store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 1 week. The gelatin-stabilized frosting is shelf-stable and does not require refrigeration. If the frosting becomes too firm, it cannot be successfully reheated or softened.