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Begin by cleaning your mixer bowl and whisks with a little lemon juice or vinegar to ensure they are free of grease.
In the cleaned mixer bowl, combine the egg whites, granulated sugar, cream of tartar, and citrus zest.
Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn't touch the water. Stir the mixture constantly until it is hot to the touch and the sugar is dissolved, reaching a temperature of 160°F.
Transfer the bowl to a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Whip the mixture on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, which should take about 6 minutes.
Gradually add the vanilla extract while continuing to whip, adjusting the flavor to taste.
Once the frosting is thick and glossy, it is ready to be spread over your cakes or cupcakes.
Variations & Tips
For a more intense citrus flavor, increase the amount of zest or try using a combination of lemon, lime, and orange zest. If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the vanilla extract with almond or coconut extract. For a festive touch, sprinkle a bit of colored sugar or edible glitter on top of the frosting after spreading it on your cake or cupcakes. Remember, this frosting is best used fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them covered in the refrigerator and bring them to room temperature before using again.
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