Fondant, also known as gum paste. It is an edible form of sugar paste used in the cake decorating industry to create edible decorations and figures on top of cakes.
It has many uses in the cake decorating world and can also be used in other art projects, such as making flowers and jewelry.
However, it’s essential to understand the different types of Fondant. So you know when to use each one and how they will react to each other.
Here are the different types of Fondant.
1. Rolled Fondant
The first on our list of different types of Fondant is Rolled Fondant. It is the most popular Fondant, used to cover entire cakes by rolling them out like pie crust or sugar cookie dough. Rolling fondant icing is initially soft, but as it dries, it becomes solid.
But unlike gum paste, it won’t become crumbly or excellent. Its finish can be matte or shine, depending on the fondant mix. Meanwhile, use fondant tools to add patterns, shapes, and flowers to your cakes.
2. Poured Fondant
Poured Fondant is one of the different types of Fondant that’s often used on cakes. It’s made by heating sugar, water, and corn syrup until they form a thick syrup.
Once it cools, poured Fondant can be spread over a cake like frosting. It has a thicker consistency than rolled Fondant so that it can be poured into molds or free-hand onto cakes.
Also, it dries much faster than rolled Fondant, so it’s essential to work quickly when using this product. If you’re using poured Fondant on cupcakes, they need to be eaten within 24 hours.
3. Coloring Fondant
You can color Fondant in several ways, including with gel food coloring, powder food coloring, or even liquid food coloring. The type of coloring you use will depend on the effect you’re going for and the type of Fondant you’re using.
For instance, Gel food coloring will give you a more concentrated color, while powder food coloring will give you a more pastel hue. Liquid food coloring is best used for light colors or when mixed with other ingredients like extracts.
4. Sculpting Fondant
Sculpting Fondant is also one of the different types of Fondant that is very versatile. It can be used to make 3D sculptures, or it can be used as a covering for cakes.
Also, it is very pliable, so it can be used to create decorations with a lot of detail. The downside to sculpting fondant is that it dries out quickly, so it needs to be used within a few days of being made.
5. Ready-to-Use Fondant
Ready-to-use Fondant is a type of Fondant that is already mixed and doesn’t require any additional preparation. It’s great for beginners or if you’re short on time.
Plus, it’s easy to work with and can be rolled out very thin. Ready-to-use Fondant is available in various colors and can be found at most craft stores.
Tips for Working With Fondant
- Always start with a clean, dry, and smooth surface. This will help the Fondant adhere better and give you a smoother finish.
- Knead the Fondant until it’s soft and pliable. This will make it easier to work with.
- Roll out the Fondant on a lightly floured surface to prevent it from sticking.
- Use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut out shapes. You can use an offset spatula to add detail to your design.
- You can use color specks of dust for color, food coloring for tinting, or melted chocolate for filling in designs (use wax paper as a barrier).
- Add some cornstarch if the Fondant is too sticky – this will keep it from becoming sticky when stored in humid conditions
- Keep unused portions of the dough tightly wrapped in plastic wrap
Conclusion
In conclusion, many different types of Fondant are available, each with its unique properties. Depending on what you want to use it for, you may want to choose a specific type.
For example, rolled Fondant would be the best choice if you need a very smooth surface. But if you want something that will harden and keep its shape, then modeling chocolate would be a better option. Ultimately, it all comes down to preference and what you need the Fondant for.
