Rolled Fondant For Cake Decorating

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to impress your guests with a beautifully decorated cake, learning how to make your own rolled fondant can take your baking skills to the next level. Rolled fondant is a versatile icing that is perfect for covering cakes, creating intricate decorations, and adding a professional touch to your homemade creations. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic techniques, you can create a smooth, glossy finish that will make your cakes look as good as they taste.

**Rolled Fondant For Cake Decorating**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 package (16 ounces) of mini marshmallows
– 2 tablespoons of water
– 2 pounds of powdered sugar, sifted
– 1/2 cup of vegetable shortening
– 1 teaspoon of clear vanilla extract
– Food coloring (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prep Work:** Before you begin, make sure that your work surface (such as a clean countertop or silicone mat) is clean and lightly dusted with powdered sugar. This will prevent the fondant from sticking as you roll it out. Also, have your powdered sugar, vegetable shortening, and clear vanilla extract within easy reach.

2. **Melt the Marshmallows:** In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the mini marshmallows and water. Microwave the marshmallows in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval. Continue microwaving and stirring until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth.

3. **Add Flavor and Shortening:** Once the marshmallows are melted, stir in the clear vanilla extract and vegetable shortening until well combined. The shortening will help keep the fondant pliable and prevent it from drying out.

4. **Incorporate Powdered Sugar:** Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar to the marshmallow mixture, stirring with a greased spatula or wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.

5. **Knead the Fondant:** Transfer the sticky dough onto your prepared work surface dusted with powdered sugar. Knead the fondant, adding more powdered sugar as needed, until it becomes smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. This process may take about 5-10 minutes.

6. **Coloring (Optional):** If you want to add color to your fondant, knead in a few drops of food coloring until the desired shade is achieved. You can also create different colors by dividing the fondant into smaller portions and coloring each one separately.

7. **Roll Out the Fondant:** Roll out the fondant using a rolling pin dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch, ensuring it’s large enough to cover your cake with extra for overlap.

8. **Cover the Cake:** Carefully lift the rolled fondant over your cake and gently smooth it over the top and sides, working quickly but carefully to avoid air bubbles. Trim any excess fondant around the base of the cake using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.

9. **Decorate:** Let your creativity shine by using additional fondant to create decorations, shapes, or intricate designs for your cake. You can use cookie cutters, molds, or shaping tools to add personalized touches.

And just like that, you’ve mastered the art of making rolled fondant for cake decorating. With this versatile icing in your baking repertoire, your cakes are sure to stand out at any gathering. Experiment with different colors, shapes, and designs to make each creation uniquely yours. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, rolled fondant opens up a world of possibilities for creating stunning cakes that taste as good as they look. Enjoy the process and let your creativity flow!