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The secret to gluing fondant decorations: Duff Goldman’s Surprising Technique
When it comes to creating stunningly beautiful and realistic cakes, Duff Goldman, also known as the “Ace of Cakes,” is a true master. His Baltimore bakery has become famous for its gorgeous cakes, and fans have been lucky enough to get a behind-the-scenes look at the intricate designs created by Goldman and his talented team.
One of the key ingredients Goldman relies on to create these elaborate creations is fondant. Fondant is a controversial ingredient due to its taste and texture, with many people not particularly fond of it. However, its ability to create smooth surfaces and intricate designs makes it an essential tool for cake decorators.
What is fondant?
Fondant is a type of icing made from sugar, water, corn syrup, and glycerin. It has a texture similar to clay and is often used to cover cakes and create decorative elements. Although technically edible, fondant is used primarily for its aesthetic qualities rather than its taste.
Goldman has used fondant to create a wide range of impressive designs, including stormtrooper helmets, giant hamburgers, and even the iconic DeLorean car from Back to the Future. While he and his team make working with fondant look easy, there are some tips and tricks that can make the process more manageable.
The secret ingredient: Vodka
In a video demonstration with PopSugar, Duff Goldman reveals his surprising secret for making fondant decorations stick together: vodka. Instead of using a traditional glue-like substance, Goldman uses common vodka as his glue.
When vodka is applied to fondant, it acts as an adhesive, allowing the different pieces to stick together. The high alcohol content in vodka causes it to dry quickly, making it ideal for intricate designs. Unlike water, vodka doesn’t dissolve the sugar in the fondant as quickly, and it dries clear, leaving no visible residue. Vodka also dries completely odorless, so you don’t have to worry about your cake smelling like alcohol.
Water as an alternative
If you prefer not to use alcohol or don’t have vodka on hand, water can be used as an alternative glue for fondant decorations. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Water has a higher viscosity than vodka, making it more likely to drip and potentially damage other finished parts of the cake.
To mitigate this problem, Rose Bakes suggests using a small brush, such as a cotton swab, to gently apply the water to the desired area. The swab acts as a small brush, allowing for precise application and minimizing the risk of excess water spreading uncontrollably.
Final Thoughts
Duff Goldman’s surprising technique of using vodka as an adhesive for fondant decorations has revolutionized the world of cake decorating. By harnessing the adhesive properties of vodka, cake decorators can achieve stunning results with intricate designs that dry quickly and leave no residue.
For those who prefer not to use alcohol, water can be a suitable alternative, although extra care must be taken to avoid excessive dripping. Regardless of the method chosen, mastering the art of gluing fondant decorations opens up a world of possibilities for creating visually striking and awe-inspiring cakes.
So the next time you embark on a cake decorating adventure, remember Duff Goldman’s secret and reach for that bottle of vodka or a trusty brush and some water. Your fondant decorations will stick together perfectly, allowing you to create edible works of art that will amaze and delight.
FAQS
What is fondant and why is it used in cake decorating?
Fondant is a type of glaze made from sugar, water, corn syrup, and glycerin. It is used in cake decorating to create smooth surfaces and intricate designs.
Why is fondant considered controversial?
Fondant is controversial because of its taste and texture. While technically edible, many people find it less appealing to eat compared to other cake elements.
How does Duff Goldman use vodka to glue fondant decorations?
Duff Goldman applies a small amount of vodka to the fondant pieces, which acts as an adhesive to hold them together. The high alcohol content of vodka allows for quick drying and leaves no visible residue.
Can I use something other than vodka as a fondant glue?
Yes, if you prefer not to use alcohol, you can use water as an alternative. However, water has a higher viscosity and may be more likely to drip, so be careful when applying it to fondant decorations.
Does the vodka used to glue fondant decorations leave an odor?
No, the vodka dries completely odorless, so there is no need to worry about the cake smelling like alcohol.
Any tips on using water as an alternative to vodka?
When using water, it is recommended that you use a small brush, such as a cotton swab, to gently apply it to the desired area. This helps control the amount of water and minimizes the risk of excess dripping.