Frequently Asked Questions
What is Deluxe Homemade Fondant?
Deluxe Homemade Fondant is a luxurious, smooth, and pliable icing from thecookduke.com used for covering cakes and crafting intricate decorations.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients: unflavored gelatin, cold water, almond extract, light corn syrup, glycerin, confectioners' sugar, and vegetable shortening.
How do I prepare the gelatin?
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of unflavored gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it rest for two minutes to soften.
How should I heat the gelatin mixture?
Microwave it on High for 30 seconds at a time, watching closely to prevent boiling, until fully dissolved.
What flavorings are added to the fondant?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of almond extract to be stirred into the gelatin mixture.
What is the purpose of glycerin in this recipe?
Glycerin is essential for providing flexibility and making the fondant pliable.
Why is light corn syrup used?
Light corn syrup is mixed into the gelatin to help create a smooth and clear base for the sugar.
How much confectioners' sugar is needed?
The recipe requires 2 pounds of confectioners' sugar in total.
Is sifting the sugar necessary?
Yes, sifting 1.5 pounds of the sugar initially is recommended to ensure there are no lumps in the fondant.
How do I start mixing the sugar and liquid?
Create a well in the center of the sifted sugar and pour in the gelatin mixture.
What tool should I use for initial mixing?
A wooden spoon is recommended for stirring the mixture until it becomes sticky and clumps together.
How do I prepare my work surface?
Sift a little of the remaining confectioners' sugar onto a clean, smooth work surface before kneading.
How do I incorporate the remaining sugar?
Add the remaining sugar gradually while kneading the mixture on your work surface until it forms a smooth dough.
What is the role of vegetable shortening?
Shortening is rubbed onto your hands and kneaded into the fondant to give it a silky texture.
How should I store the finished fondant?
Wrap the fondant in plastic wrap and store it in a tightly sealed container to maintain freshness.
How do I revive fondant that has dried out?
Microwave the dried fondant for a few seconds and knead it until it returns to a workable state.
Can this fondant be used for decorations?
Yes, it is perfect for both covering cakes and crafting intricate, decorative items.
What temperature should the ingredients be?
It is best to use room temperature ingredients for the most successful fondant texture.
How much vegetable shortening is used?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of vegetable shortening, primarily applied to the hands during kneading.
What should the final texture of the fondant be?
The final fondant should be smooth, pliable, and have a silky texture.
Can I make the fondant ahead of time?
Yes, you can make extra fondant and store it for future use in a sealed container.
Is the glycerin amount flexible?
The recipe specifies 1 tablespoon of glycerin to ensure the necessary flexibility.
What if the gelatin mixture isn't smooth after the first microwave session?
Microwave it for an additional 15 to 20 seconds and stir again until the mixture is smooth and clear.
How do I avoid a lumpy fondant?
Ensure the sugar is sifted and the gelatin is fully dissolved before combining them.
Can I use this recipe for a special occasion cake?
Absolutely, this fondant is designed to hold up beautifully for any special occasion.
What type of water is used for the gelatin?
The recipe specifies using cold water to soften the unflavored gelatin.
How do I handle the fondant if it is too sticky?
Gradually knead in more of the remaining confectioners' sugar until it reaches a pliable dough consistency.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to sprinkle unflavored gelatin over cold water in a small bowl.
Who created this recipe?
This recipe comes from the website thecookduke.com.
What is the total amount of corn syrup used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of light corn syrup.