Mega Icing Mania: Creative Recipes Using Pillsbury Toaster Strudel’s Extra-Large Icing Packets
Pillsbury Toaster Strudels are a beloved breakfast staple, offering a warm, flaky pastry filled with sweet goodness. But let’s be honest, for many of us, the real star of the show is the icing! And now, with the Mega Icing packets included in some boxes, we have even MORE to love. Instead of just drizzling it over our strudels, why not get creative and explore the boundless possibilities this generous helping of icing offers? This article is dedicated to unlocking the full potential of your Pillsbury Toaster Strudel Mega Icing, providing you with a collection of delicious and fun recipes beyond the box.
Why We Love Toaster Strudel Icing (and Mega Icing!)
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s take a moment to appreciate what makes Toaster Strudel icing so special. It’s not just sweet; it’s creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced. The slightly tart flavor cuts through the sweetness, preventing it from being cloying. And that iconic glaze consistency is just *chef’s kiss*! The Mega Icing packets take this love affair to the next level by providing enough icing to actually *generously* coat your strudels and still have leftovers for even more delicious adventures.
Recipe Ideas Unleashed: Beyond the Strudel
Here’s where the fun begins! We’re going to explore a variety of recipes that utilize your leftover Toaster Strudel Mega Icing. From simple enhancements to existing desserts to entirely new creations, get ready to be inspired.
1. Icing-Drizzled Popcorn: A Sweet and Salty Delight
This recipe is incredibly simple and satisfying. The combination of salty popcorn and sweet, tangy icing is irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* Popped popcorn (air-popped or store-bought, unsalted or lightly salted is best)
* Pillsbury Toaster Strudel Mega Icing
* Optional: Sprinkles, sea salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Pop the Popcorn:** Prepare your popcorn according to package directions or using your preferred method. Make sure to use unsalted or lightly salted popcorn to avoid overpowering the sweet icing flavor.
2. **Drizzle the Icing:** Place the popped popcorn in a large bowl. Microwave the Mega Icing packet for 5-10 seconds to soften it slightly (be careful not to overheat!). Drizzle the icing evenly over the popcorn, using a spoon or spatula to gently toss and coat. For best results, drizzle in batches to ensure even coverage.
3. **Add Toppings (Optional):** While the icing is still wet, sprinkle with your desired toppings. Rainbow sprinkles add a festive touch, while a pinch of sea salt enhances the sweet and salty contrast.
4. **Let it Set:** Spread the popcorn in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This will prevent the popcorn from clumping together too much as the icing sets. Allow the icing to harden slightly for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
5. **Enjoy:** Break the popcorn into clusters and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chocolate Popcorn:** Use chocolate popcorn for a double dose of indulgence.
* **Nutty Popcorn:** Add chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts) for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
* **Movie Night Upgrade:** This is the perfect way to elevate your next movie night.
* **Flavor Boost:** Add a tiny dash of vanilla extract to the melted icing for an extra layer of flavor.
2. Icing-Glazed Mini Donuts: A Bite-Sized Treat
Transform store-bought or homemade mini donuts into a decadent delight with a generous glaze of Toaster Strudel icing.
**Ingredients:**
* Mini donuts (store-bought or homemade)
* Pillsbury Toaster Strudel Mega Icing
* Optional: Sprinkles, chopped nuts, shredded coconut
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Donuts:** If making your own donuts, follow your preferred recipe and allow them to cool slightly. Store-bought donuts are ready to go!
2. **Melt the Icing:** Microwave the Mega Icing packet for 5-10 seconds to soften it (be careful not to overheat!).
3. **Glaze the Donuts:** Dip each donut into the melted icing, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Alternatively, you can use a spoon to drizzle the icing over the donuts.
4. **Add Toppings (Optional):** Immediately sprinkle the glazed donuts with your desired toppings, such as sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut.
5. **Let it Set:** Place the glazed donuts on a wire rack lined with parchment paper to allow the icing to set slightly. This will prevent the donuts from sticking to the surface.
6. **Enjoy:** Indulge in these delightful bite-sized treats!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Cinnamon Sugar Donuts:** Roll the donuts in cinnamon sugar before glazing for a warm and comforting flavor.
* **Chocolate Covered:** Dip the glazed donuts in melted chocolate for an extra decadent treat.
* **Donut Holes:** This recipe works equally well with donut holes.
* **Presentation:** Arrange the glazed donuts on a tiered stand for a visually appealing presentation.
3. Icing-Filled Strawberries: A Simple and Elegant Dessert
Elevate fresh strawberries with a creamy and flavorful filling made with Toaster Strudel icing. This is a simple yet elegant dessert perfect for parties or a special occasion.
**Ingredients:**
* Fresh strawberries, hulled
* Pillsbury Toaster Strudel Mega Icing
* Optional: Chocolate shavings, chopped nuts, mint leaves
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Strawberries:** Wash and dry the strawberries thoroughly. Hull the strawberries by carefully removing the green stem and a small portion of the top. Make sure the opening is large enough to hold the icing.
2. **Fill the Strawberries:** Transfer the Mega Icing to a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off. Carefully pipe the icing into the hollowed-out strawberries. Fill them generously but avoid overfilling.
3. **Add Toppings (Optional):** Garnish the filled strawberries with chocolate shavings, chopped nuts, or fresh mint leaves for added visual appeal and flavor.
4. **Chill (Optional):** Refrigerate the filled strawberries for at least 30 minutes to allow the icing to firm up slightly. This will also make them easier to handle.
5. **Enjoy:** Serve these elegant and delicious strawberries chilled.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chocolate Dipped:** Dip the filled strawberries in melted chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence.
* **Cream Cheese Filling:** Mix the icing with a small amount of softened cream cheese for a richer and tangier filling.
* **Berry Medley:** Use a mix of different berries (raspberries, blueberries, blackberries) for a colorful and flavorful dessert.
* **Presentation:** Arrange the filled strawberries on a platter or in a glass bowl for a stunning presentation.
4. Icing-Swirled Brownies: Upgrade Your Baked Goods
Add a touch of sweetness and visual appeal to your brownies with a swirl of Toaster Strudel icing. This simple addition will transform ordinary brownies into a gourmet treat.
**Ingredients:**
* Prepared brownie batter (homemade or store-bought)
* Pillsbury Toaster Strudel Mega Icing
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Brownie Batter:** Prepare your brownie batter according to package directions or your preferred recipe.
2. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the brownie batter into a greased and floured baking pan.
3. **Swirl the Icing:** Microwave the Mega Icing packet for 5-10 seconds to soften it (be careful not to overheat!). Using a spoon or piping bag, drizzle the icing over the brownie batter in a random or decorative pattern. Use a knife or toothpick to create swirls and patterns in the batter.
4. **Bake:** Bake the brownies according to the recipe instructions.
5. **Cool and Cut:** Let the brownies cool completely before cutting into squares.
6. **Enjoy:** Serve these decadent and visually appealing icing-swirled brownies.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Peanut Butter Swirl:** Combine the icing with a small amount of peanut butter for a peanut butter and icing swirl.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Add chocolate chips to the brownie batter for an extra chocolatey treat.
* **Nutty Brownies:** Add chopped nuts to the brownie batter for a crunchy texture.
* **Icing Quantities:** Use more or less icing depending on your desired level of sweetness and swirl effect.
5. Icing-Drizzled Waffles or Pancakes: A Breakfast Upgrade
Take your waffles or pancakes to the next level with a generous drizzle of Toaster Strudel icing. This simple addition will transform your ordinary breakfast into a special treat.
**Ingredients:**
* Prepared waffles or pancakes (homemade or store-bought)
* Pillsbury Toaster Strudel Mega Icing
* Optional: Fresh berries, whipped cream, chocolate chips
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Waffles or Pancakes:** Prepare your waffles or pancakes according to package directions or your preferred recipe.
2. **Drizzle the Icing:** Microwave the Mega Icing packet for 5-10 seconds to soften it (be careful not to overheat!). Drizzle the icing generously over the warm waffles or pancakes.
3. **Add Toppings (Optional):** Top with fresh berries, whipped cream, chocolate chips, or any other desired toppings.
4. **Enjoy:** Indulge in this sweet and satisfying breakfast treat!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Berry Compote:** Top with a homemade berry compote for an extra layer of flavor and sweetness.
* **Chocolate Sauce:** Drizzle with chocolate sauce for a decadent treat.
* **Sprinkles:** Add sprinkles for a fun and festive breakfast.
* **Layered Delight:** Create a layered waffle or pancake stack with icing and toppings in between each layer.
6. Icing-Filled Crescent Rolls: A Sweet and Savory Combination
Transform store-bought crescent rolls into a sweet and savory delight by filling them with Toaster Strudel icing. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack.
**Ingredients:**
* Refrigerated crescent roll dough
* Pillsbury Toaster Strudel Mega Icing
* Optional: Cinnamon sugar, chopped nuts
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven according to the crescent roll package directions.
2. **Unroll the Dough:** Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate the triangles.
3. **Fill with Icing:** Place a small amount of icing (about a teaspoon) at the wide end of each triangle.
4. **Roll Up:** Roll up the triangles from the wide end to the point, creating crescent shapes.
5. **Bake:** Bake the crescent rolls according to the package directions, or until golden brown.
6. **Add Toppings (Optional):** While the rolls are still warm, brush them with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or chopped nuts.
7. **Enjoy:** Serve these warm and delicious icing-filled crescent rolls.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Cream Cheese Filling:** Mix the icing with a small amount of softened cream cheese for a richer and tangier filling.
* **Fruit Filling:** Add a small piece of fruit (such as apple or berry) along with the icing for a fruity twist.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Sprinkle chocolate chips over the icing before rolling up the dough.
* **Savory Version:** For a savory version, fill the crescent rolls with ham and cheese instead of icing.
7. Icing-Dipped Pretzels: A Simple and Satisfying Snack
Transform ordinary pretzels into a sweet and salty snack with a quick dip in Toaster Strudel icing.
**Ingredients:**
* Pretzels (sticks, twists, or rods)
* Pillsbury Toaster Strudel Mega Icing
* Optional: Sprinkles, crushed nuts, sea salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt the Icing:** Microwave the Mega Icing packet for 5-10 seconds to soften it (be careful not to overheat!).
2. **Dip the Pretzels:** Dip each pretzel into the melted icing, coating about half of the pretzel. You can also use a spoon to drizzle icing over the pretzels if you prefer.
3. **Add Toppings (Optional):** While the icing is still wet, sprinkle with your desired toppings, such as sprinkles, crushed nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt.
4. **Let it Set:** Place the dipped pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet to allow the icing to set. This will prevent the pretzels from sticking. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes.
5. **Enjoy:** Enjoy this sweet and salty snack!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chocolate Covered:** Dip the icing-covered pretzels in melted chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence.
* **Different Pretzel Shapes:** Experiment with different pretzel shapes and sizes to find your favorite.
* **Festive Colors:** Use colored sprinkles to match a specific holiday or event.
* **Gift Giving:** Package the dipped pretzels in cellophane bags for a thoughtful homemade gift.
8. Icing-Laced Rice Krispie Treats: An Enhanced Classic
Elevate the classic Rice Krispie Treats by swirling or drizzling Toaster Strudel icing throughout the mixture before it sets. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and a visually appealing touch.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
* 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter
* 1 (10 ounce) package marshmallows
* Pillsbury Toaster Strudel Mega Icing
* Optional: Sprinkles
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt Butter and Marshmallows:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat.
2. **Add Rice Krispies:** Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the melted marshmallow mixture and stir until well coated.
3. **Swirl in Icing:** Microwave the Mega Icing packet for 5-10 seconds to soften it (be careful not to overheat!). Drizzle or swirl the icing into the Rice Krispie mixture. You can use a knife to create patterns if desired. Don’t overmix; you want the icing to remain distinct.
4. **Press into Pan:** Press the mixture into a greased 13×9 inch pan.
5. **Add Toppings (Optional):** Sprinkle with sprinkles, if desired.
6. **Cool and Cut:** Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
7. **Enjoy:** Serve and enjoy this enhanced classic!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats:** Add melted chocolate to the marshmallow mixture for a chocolate version.
* **Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats:** Add peanut butter to the marshmallow mixture.
* **Different Cereal:** Experiment with other cereals besides Rice Krispies.
* **Food Coloring:** Add food coloring to the icing for festive treats.
9. Individual Icing Dessert Cups: Layered Goodness
Create individual dessert cups by layering crushed cookies, fruit, and Toaster Strudel icing for a quick and easy treat. This is a great way to use up leftover ingredients and create a personalized dessert.
**Ingredients:**
* Crushed cookies (graham crackers, Oreos, etc.)
* Fresh fruit (berries, bananas, etc.)
* Pillsbury Toaster Strudel Mega Icing
* Optional: Whipped cream, chocolate shavings
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Ingredients:** Crush the cookies and chop the fruit into small pieces.
2. **Layer in Cups:** Layer the crushed cookies, fruit, and icing in individual dessert cups or glasses. Start with a layer of crushed cookies, followed by a layer of fruit, and then a layer of icing. Repeat the layers until the cup is full.
3. **Add Toppings (Optional):** Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
4. **Chill (Optional):** Refrigerate the dessert cups for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Enjoy:** Serve and enjoy these easy and delicious individual dessert cups!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Pudding Layer:** Add a layer of pudding (vanilla, chocolate, or banana) for an extra creamy element.
* **Yogurt Layer:** Use yogurt instead of pudding for a healthier option.
* **Different Cookie Combinations:** Experiment with different cookie combinations to create unique flavor profiles.
* **Seasonal Fruit:** Use seasonal fruit for the freshest and most flavorful dessert.
10. Icing as a Filling for Thumbprint Cookies: Sweet and Tangy Center
Use the Mega Icing as a delicious and tangy filling for thumbprint cookies, adding a bright flavor contrast to the buttery cookie base.
**Ingredients:**
* Your favorite thumbprint cookie dough recipe
* Pillsbury Toaster Strudel Mega Icing
* Optional: Sprinkles for decoration after baking
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Cookie Dough:** Prepare your thumbprint cookie dough according to your recipe. Chill the dough as directed.
2. **Shape the Cookies:** Roll the dough into small balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
3. **Bake:** Bake the cookies according to your recipe’s instructions. Let cool slightly on the baking sheet.
4. **Fill with Icing:** Once the cookies are slightly cooled but still warm, microwave the Mega Icing packet for 5-10 seconds to soften it. Transfer to a piping bag or use a small spoon to fill the center of each cookie with icing.
5. **Decorate (Optional):** While the icing is still wet, sprinkle with sprinkles or other desired decorations.
6. **Cool Completely:** Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack until the icing sets.
7. **Enjoy:** Store in an airtight container. Enjoy the combination of the buttery cookie and the sweet-tangy icing!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Jam Alternative:** Use a small amount of your favorite jam in addition to or instead of the icing for a mixed filling.
* **Lemon Zest:** Add lemon zest to the cookie dough for a complementary flavor.
* **Powdered Sugar:** Dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
* **Different Cookie Flavors:** Experiment with chocolate, peanut butter, or almond flavored thumbprint cookies.
Beyond the Recipes: Tips for Mega Icing Success
* **Microwave with Caution:** When microwaving the icing packet, start with very short bursts (5 seconds at a time) to avoid overheating and causing it to explode. Puncture the packet with a toothpick to vent steam.
* **Consistency is Key:** If the icing is too thick, add a tiny bit of milk or water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, refrigerate it for a few minutes to thicken it up.
* **Storage:** Store leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be reheated gently in the microwave or used cold.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings to add flavor and visual appeal to your creations. Some ideas include sprinkles, chopped nuts, chocolate shavings, shredded coconut, sea salt, and even edible glitter!
* **Presentation Matters:** Take the time to present your creations in an appealing way. A simple garnish or arrangement can elevate your desserts from ordinary to extraordinary.
Final Thoughts
The Pillsbury Toaster Strudel Mega Icing is more than just a topping; it’s an ingredient with endless possibilities. By thinking outside the box (or the strudel box, in this case!), you can create a variety of delicious and fun recipes that will impress your friends and family. So, the next time you have leftover Mega Icing, don’t just throw it away. Get creative, experiment, and enjoy the sweet rewards! Happy baking (and icing!)!