How to Apply Fondant to a Cake
Apply fondant icing to cakes made for special occasions such as weddings and graduations. Fondant icing provides for an alternative way to decorate cakes. The icing creates a flat surface which makes it easier to apply decorations. Make fondant icing at home, or purchase it at your local craft store. Add color to add to the interest and quality of the cake. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Buttercream icing
- Spatula
- Fondant icing
- Cornstarch
- Confectioners' sugar
- Rolling pin
- Fondant smoother
- Pizza cutter
Instructions
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1
Prepare the cake before applying the fondant. Apply buttercream icing to the cake with a spatula. This helps the fondant icing adhere to the cake. Cover the whole cake with buttercream icing and check to be sure there are no spots of the cake showing through.
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2
Spread a thin layer of cornstarch on a smooth, flat surface. This will prevent the fondant icing from sticking to the surface while you prepare it. Knead the fondant. Add confectioners' sugar if it is too sticky. Place confectioners' sugar on the rolling pin to ensure that the icing does not stick.
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3
Measure the height, width, and length of the cake. It is essential to roll the fondant out according to the height of the cake. Multiply the height by 2. This is your new height measurement. Add the three measurements to get the total width measurement of the fondant. Add 1 to 2 inches to the fondant to ensure that you have enough icing.
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Roll the fondant out. Continue to move and shift the fondant while rolling. The ideal thickness of the fondant is at least ¼ of an inch.
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Place the fondant on the buttercream icing-covered cake. Roll the fondant around the rolling pin, or gently lift it with your hands to place the fondant over the cake. Be careful not to crack or tear the fondant.
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6
Smooth the sides of the fondant. Use a flat edge tool, or a fondant smoother. Place cornstarch on your hands before touching the cake. Use your hands to finish smoothing the fondant on the cake.
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7
Trim the excess fondant from the cake. Smooth the icing completely then cut off the excess with a pizza cutter or a knife.
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Store leftover fondant in an airtight container.
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Tips & Warnings
Remove any air bubbles with a pin. Air bubbles may appear while rolling the dough out, or on the cake when you apply the fondant icing.
