5 Delicious and Easy Fondant Icing Recipes

Fondant icing is a popular choice when it comes to cake decorating. Fondant is made from sugar, water, and other ingredients and in this post we have 5 easy fondant icing recipes. It is used to cover cakes, create intricate designs and sculptures, and add a touch of elegance to any dessert. 

In this post, we will explore everything you’ll need to know about fondant, including its common ingredients, when to use it, and the types of cakes that fondant is used for. 

Common Ingredients Used in Fondant Icing 

One of the most common ingredients in fondant is powdered sugar. Powdered sugar, also known as confectioner’s sugar, is a finely ground sugar that’s perfect for making smooth and pliable fondant. Another essential ingredient is marshmallows, which give fondant its signature stretchy and malleable texture. 

Other ingredients may include corn syrup, glycerin, and vanilla or almond extract flavorings. 

When To Use Fondant Icing 

While fondant is often used for covering wedding cakes, it can also be used to create a wide range of designs and decorations. Fondant can be dyed in various colors and molded into different shapes, such as flowers, animals, and other intricate designs. 

Fondant is also a great option for creating a smooth, flawless finish on cakes and cupcakes. 

Types of Cakes That Fondant Is Used For 

Regarding cakes, fondant is often used on special occasions, such as wedding, anniversary, and birthday cakes. Fondant provides a clean and polished look to cakes, making them stand out and look more professional. 

Fondant is especially useful when decorating larger cakes, as it allows for more intricate designs and decorations that may not be possible with other types of frosting. 

Delicious and Easy Fondant Icing Recipes

1. Traditional Marshmallow Fondant:

• 16 oz mini marshmallows
• 2-5 tbsp water
• 2 lbs powdered sugar
• Food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

Melt the marshmallows and water in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Add powdered sugar and mix until well combined. Turn onto a surface dusted with powdered sugar and knead until smooth. Add food coloring if desired. Use immediately or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature.

2. Rolled Fondant

• 1 lb powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1 tbsp unflavored gelatin
• 1/2 cup glucose syrup
• 1 tsp glycerin
• Food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

Combine the powdered sugar and gelatin in a large bowl. In a saucepan, mix the water, glucose syrup, and glycerin. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is clear and syrupy. Pour the hot syrup into the powdered sugar mixture and stir until well combined. Turn onto a surface dusted with powdered sugar and knead until smooth. Add food coloring if desired. Use immediately or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature.

3. White Chocolate Fondant:

• 16 oz white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 lbs powdered sugar

Instructions:

Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Add the corn syrup, vanilla extract, and heavy cream, and mix until well combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until a dough forms. Turn onto a surface dusted with powdered sugar and knead until smooth. Use immediately or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature.

4. Vegan Fondant

• 2 cups vegan powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup agave syrup
• 1 tbsp vegan butter
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp almond milk (or any other plant-based milk)
• Food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

In a mixing bowl, combine the vegan powdered sugar, agave syrup, vegan butter, vanilla extract, and almond milk. Mix until well combined and a dough forms. Turn onto a surface dusted with powdered sugar and knead until smooth. Add food coloring if desired. Use immediately or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature.

5. Quick and Easy Fondant:

• 1 (16 oz) package mini marshmallows
• 2-3 tbsp water
• 2 lbs powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup shortening
• Food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

Melt the marshmallows and water in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Add the shortening and mix until well combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until a dough forms. Turn onto a surface dusted with powdered sugar and knead until smooth. Add food coloring if desired. Use immediately or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature.

Tips for Working with Fondant 

One thing to remember when working with fondant is that it can be tricky to get the hang of at first. However, with a little practice and patience, you can create beautiful and delicious cakes and desserts that will impress you. 

When working with fondant, keeping your workspace clean and free of any excess powdered sugar or cornstarch is important. Too much powdered sugar can cause the fondant to become dry and brittle, while too much cornstarch can make it difficult to work with. To prevent this, use a light dusting of powdered sugar or cornstarch on your work surface and hands, and use only as much as necessary. 

FAQs About Fondant Icing Recipes

What is fondant, and how do I make it?

Fondant is a versatile sugar paste used in cake decorating, sculpting, and covering cakes. To make fondant, you’ll need powdered sugar, marshmallows, and water. Melt the marshmallows in a microwave or over a double boiler, add powdered sugar, and mix until a dough forms. Knead the fondant on a surface dusted with powdered sugar until smooth.

How do I color fondant?

You can color fondant using food coloring gels or powder. Add the coloring to the fondant and knead it until the color is evenly distributed. If you need a specific shade, you can mix different colors until you achieve the desired result.

How do I store fondant?

Store fondant in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. You can store it at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you need to store it for a more extended period, refrigerate it for up to three months.

How do I cover a cake with fondant?

To cover a cake with fondant, make sure your cake is leveled and coated with a layer of buttercream or ganache. Roll out the fondant on a surface dusted with powdered sugar until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Carefully drape the fondant over the cake and smooth it out using a fondant smoother. Trim the excess fondant from the bottom.

Can I make vegan fondant?

Yes, you can make vegan fondant using vegan ingredients like powdered sugar, agave syrup, vegan butter, and plant-based milk. Simply follow a vegan fondant recipe and substitute the non-vegan ingredients with vegan alternatives.

Conclusion 

Overall, fondant icing is an excellent choice for creating beautiful and delicious cakes and desserts. With a little practice and creativity, you can create stunning cakes and desserts that are sure to impress. Whether you’re making a wedding cake or a batch of cupcakes, fondant is a versatile and delicious option that’s sure to satisfy. Remember to remember these tips when working with fondant, and you’ll be able to create beautiful and tasty desserts that will impress your guests.