Working with fondant can be tricky even for pro bakers. Mastering fondant takes a lot of practice which also lets you be a step ahead of potential blunders. Icing is delicate and anything from an uneven surface to a minor error in measurement can mess with its consistency. Since it’s decorated to sculpt or cover cakes and pastries, it needs to be quite precise in terms of ingredients and execution.
Choosing the right shortening and investing in the right equipment is crucial for the best results. Moreover, temperature and timing play a big role in giving you a flawless fondant. However, there are some other factors which can help you master homemade fondant.
Choose High-Quality Product
The first step to creating beautiful fondant decorations is selecting products that offer consistency. Opt for fondant brands known for their superior taste and texture, as well as ease of use. Look for fondant that is pliable, smooth, and free from cracks or air bubbles. While homemade fondant is an option, it requires precise measurements and careful preparation to achieve the desired consistency. Investing in a reputable commercial fondant can save you time and ensure consistent results.
Don’t Skip The Prepping
Before rolling out your fondant, make sure your work surface is clean and properly prepared. Dust your work surface with a thin layer of cornstarch or powdered sugar to prevent the fondant from sticking. Use a non-stick rolling pin to roll out the fondant to your desired thickness, rotating it regularly to maintain an even shape. Avoid using too much cornstarch or powdered sugar, as excessive dusting can dry out the fondant and affect its texture.
Use Fondant Smoothers for a Flawless Finish
Achieving a smooth and polished look is essential when working with fondant. Fondant smoothers are invaluable tools for achieving a flawless finish on your cakes. After covering your cake with fondant, gently smooth the surface using fondant smoothers to remove any wrinkles or air bubbles. Start from the top of the cake and work your way down, applying even pressure to ensure a seamless finish. Fondant smoothers can also be used to create sharp edges and crisp corners.
Add Tylose Powder for Stability
One common challenge when working with fondant is ensuring that your decorations hold their shape and maintain stability. Adding tylose powder to your fondant can help improve its elasticity and firmness, making it easier to mould and shape intricate designs. Simply knead a small amount of tylose powder into your fondant until it is well incorporated, then allow it to rest for a few minutes to activate. Tylose powder is particularly useful when creating 3D figurines, flowers, or other detailed decorations that require extra support.
Incorporate Gel Food Colouring for Vibrant Colours
Achieving vibrant and consistent colours can be difficult when working with fondant, especially when using traditional liquid food colouring. Gel food colouring offers a concentrated and vibrant alternative that won't alter the texture of your fondant. Start by adding a small amount of gel food colouring to your fondant and knead it until the colour is evenly distributed. Add more colouring as needed until you achieve your desired shade. Gel food colouring is available in a wide range of colours and can be mixed to create custom shades for your cake designs.
Use Fondant Tools for Precision
Investing in a set of fondant tools can greatly enhance your ability to create intricate designs and detailing. Fondant tools come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific tasks such as cutting, shaping, and detailing. Common fondant tools include fondant cutters, embossing tools, modelling tools, and veining tools. Whether you're sculpting delicate flowers, adding texture to your decorations, or creating intricate patterns, having the right tools on hand can make the process much easier and more precise.