Mastering Fondant
Essential Tools for Perfectly Covered Cakes
When I first started using fondant to cover cakes, I was overwhelmed by the number of tools available. It felt like I needed to buy out the entire baking aisle just to get started.Â
But over time, I discovered that only a few essential tools are truly necessary to achieve a beautifully smooth fondant finish.
Let me share my journey and the must-have tools that made all the difference.
1. The Fondant Roller
One of the first tools I invested in was a high-quality fondant roller. Unlike a regular rolling pin, a fondant roller is specifically designed to roll out fondant evenly and smoothly. I did try a few before I settled on my current one, which I have had for almost 10 years now. It’s a sleek, extra wide silicon roller with no handles.This tool is crucial because achieving the right thickness of fondant is key to covering a cake without tears or cracks. It comes with rolling guides so you can choose your fondant thickness. I remember the frustration of dealing with uneven fondant that would tear just as I draped it over the cake. The fondant roller changed all that, allowing me to create a consistent, flawless layer every time.
The Fondant Smoother
Next on my list was a fondant smoother. The fondant smoother, with its flat surface and ergonomic handle, helped me achieve that professional, polished look. This tool ensures that the fondant adheres perfectly to the cake, eliminating bubbles and creating sharp edges. It was a game-changer for me, transforming my cakes from amateurish to bakery-quality. And believe it or not, I still use the very first fondant smoother I ever bought. Since then, I have also purchased more silicon based fondant smoothers which aid in polishing the fondant.
The Rolling Mat
A non-stick rolling mat was another essential tool that I wish I had started using sooner. Rolling fondant directly on the countertop often led to sticking and tearing, despite dusting the surface. The rolling mat provided a smooth, non-stick surface that made rolling out fondant so much easier. I also place it on an anti-slip mat to minimise movement of the mat whilst I roll out my fondant. It also helped me measure the fondant accurately, thanks to the printed guidelines. This tool saved me so much time and frustration, making the fondant application process much more enjoyable. Early on, I did use the 2 layer version, however once I became much faster with the process, a single mat underneath was all I needed.
Extra Bits and Pieces
Dusting bag:Â I fill mine with a fine grade cornflour which dusts my mat easily. Some decorators like to use icing sugar, however I have had better results with cornflour.Â
Kitchen knife:Â Essential for cutting off excess fondant around the base of your cake. I like to use a flat blade knife as I find there is less tearing of the fondant.Â
Acupuncture needles:Â Air bubbles are inevitable and these fine needles are perfect for removing them. They leave a much smaller hole and can be smoothed over much easier than if using regular sized pins..
Each of these tools played a crucial role in my journey to mastering fondant. They not only made the process easier but also significantly improved the quality of my cakes. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the myriad of fondant tools out there, start with these essentials. They’ll help you achieve a smooth, professional finish and make your cake-decorating journey much more enjoyable.
I highly recommend the following products from Cakers Warehouse to aid in your fondant journey.
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