I want to make football cookies for my DS's football team. I don't like RI because it dries SO hard. I need it soft, but hard enough so it doesn't smudge when you touch it. I like the way cookies by design frosting looks, but I don't know what they use. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks, Kristen

Why don't you try MMF? It is a soft icing, but doesn't smudge when you touch it. I use it for my cookies all the time. Here is the link:

http://www.cakecentral.com/cake_recipe-3183-Rhondas-Ultimate-MMF.html

HTH

or try antonio's royal icing - dries firm but edibly soft. Recipe here on CC

Another option is toba's glace, recipe here on CC, I love working with it. I can make it runny or thick, just like RI.

Toba's glace is what I use. I love the taste, too!

Thanks for the info! I just saw a picture that was made with Antonia's RI and they were absolutely GORGEOUS!!! I can't wait to try it!!

The other option would be BC with meringue powder. Karens Cookies has a recipe on her site.