Perfect Homemade Cake Fondant

Name: Perfect Homemade Cake Fondant
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup light corn syrup; 1 cup shortening; 1 tsp clear vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 kg icing sugar (sifted); 1/4 cup water

35 min 16 servings Medium

All Recipes

Create your own cake fondant with this simple and reliable recipe. Ideal for decorating any cake with a smooth and professional finish.

Prep

30 min

Cook

5 min

Total

35 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Fondant is the key to achieving a smooth, professional-looking finish on your cakes, making it a staple for bakers and decorators worldwide. This recipe provides a simple yet effective method for crafting your own fondant at home. Creating your own fondant not only allows you to control the ingredients but also offers the opportunity to personalize the flavour and colour to suit any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through the process with ease.

Instructions

Mix wet ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the corn syrup, shortening, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.

Pro tip: Ensure the shortening is at room temperature for easy mixing.

Incorporate icing sugar

Gradually add the sifted icing sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Pro tip: Use a stand mixer with a dough hook for best results.

Knead the fondant

Once the mixture becomes too stiff to mix, transfer it to a clean surface dusted with icing sugar and knead until smooth.

Pro tip: Knead until the fondant is no longer sticky and is smooth.

Adjust consistency

If the fondant is too dry, add water one teaspoon at a time. If too sticky, add more icing sugar.

Pro tip: Achieve a dough-like consistency that's pliable but not sticky.

Colour the fondant

Add gel food colouring as desired, kneading until the colour is evenly distributed.

Pro tip: Wear gloves to avoid staining your hands.

Store or use

Use immediately to cover cakes or wrap tightly in plastic and store in an airtight container.

Pro tip: Let the fondant rest for a few hours if possible, as this can improve texture.

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Tips & Tricks

Use gel food colouring for vibrant hues without altering the consistency.
Avoid over-kneading to prevent a sticky fondant.
Store in an airtight container to prevent drying.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make cake fondant?

Cake fondant is made by mixing corn syrup, shortening, vanilla, salt, and icing sugar, then kneading until smooth.

Can you make fondant ahead of time?

Yes, fondant can be made ahead and stored for up to two weeks at room temperature in an airtight container.

What is the best way to store fondant?

Store fondant wrapped in plastic and placed in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

How long does fondant last?

Homemade fondant lasts for about two weeks when stored properly at room temperature.

Can fondant be coloured?

Yes, fondant can be coloured using gel food colouring for vibrant results without altering the texture.

Serving Suggestions

Once your fondant is ready, you can roll it out and drape it over cakes for a flawless finish. Pair it with buttercream or ganache for a delightful combination of textures. Store unused fondant by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in an airtight container to maintain its pliability. It can be made ahead and kept for up to two weeks at room temperature.