I put off buying store-bought sprinkles for about a month–every time I’d see some on the shelf, they’d be too overpriced for the small amount that came in a tiny jar. Thanks to my own stinginess, the idea of making homemade sprinkles was a thought I couldn’t shake.

These sprinkles are very similar to royal icing. You most likely have these ingredients at home–if not, they are all inexpensive, and the total cost of making these sprinkles is pennies compared to the store-bought varieties.

The real bonus is that they are completely customizable. You can add just about any flavor–vanilla, almond, rose, orange, or even a liqueur. Would you like to make sprinkles with your loved one’s favorite colors, in your favorite sports team’s colors, for a special occasion, or just want a custom color combination you can’t find in the store? Done!

HOMEMADE SPRINKLES

Makes approximately 1 1/4 cups

INGREDIENTS

• 1 1/2 cups (180 g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 large egg white
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract or flavoring of choice
• 1 teaspoon corn syrup*
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 – 1 teaspoon (or more) water

INSTRUCTIONS

Add the sifted powdered sugar to the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Add the salt, egg white, vanilla, corn syrup and beat on medium-low for about 60-90 seconds. Turn the mixer off and lift the paddle from the bowl–the mixture should droop (not fall) from the paddle. If it stays put, you may need to mix in some water. Start with a 1/2 teaspoon and work up from there. The consistency needs to be stiff enough that it keeps it shape once piped, but still workable, pliable, and smooth. 

Divide the mixture between two or three small bowls, and add your desired food colorings. Fill each color in a pastry bag fitted with a #2 tip (or multi-opening tip) and pipe straight lines on a large piece of parchment paper. Let sit for at least 12 hours.

Once dried, you should be able to gather the lines together with your hands and crush them into small pieces. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

NOTES

The corn syrup is optional, but it makes the sprinkles less chalky and softer. If the corn syrup is eliminated, more water may need to be added.