How To Make Edible Glue

Edible glue is an indispensable tool in cake decorating, often acting as the silent hero behind many stunning cake designs. It is easier to make than you may think yet this effective adhesive plays the crucial role in holding your decorative elements to cakes, ensuring they stay securely in place. Here’s a more detailed exploration of its uses:

What is Edible Glue Used for in Cake Decorating?

Attaching Fondant Pieces: Edible glue is primarily used to adhere small fondant details like flowers and figures, to larger fondant-covered cakes or even cookies and cupcakes. Its strength ensures that even the most delicate decorations remain intact throughout the delivery and display of the cake.
Securing Ribbon: Wrapping a ribbon around the base of a cake tier adds a touch of elegance, but keeping it in place can be a challenge. A thin layer of edible glue helps to fix the ribbon directly onto the fondant without damaging the aesthetic of the ribbon. This method is especially useful for ensuring that the ribbon stays put in humid conditions.
Affixing Decorations to Cake Boards: Cake boards often serve as the canvas for additional decorative elements that enhance the overall presentation of the cake. Edible glue can be used to attach everything from larger fondant decorations to rolled fondant with a texture applied, creating a cohesive look from top to bottom.

Watch our easy to follow video guide where expert cake decorator Chef Nicholas Lodge demonstrates the preparation of edible glue.

Edible Glue Recipe

100ml of boiling water
1/2 teaspoon of Tylose / CMC powder OR 32g of gumpaste
Conical sieve or similar
Plastic bottle to store your glue

Creating your own edible glue is an easy and useful trick for any cake decorator. To make it, start with 100ml (approximately 1/2 cup or 90g) of boiling water. Into this, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of Tylose/CMC powder or a no. 15 small ball of gumpaste until fully dissolved. For a smoother consistency, sieve the mixture to remove any lumps into a small bottle. Store your homemade edible glue in the refrigerator when not in use to maintain its freshness. Edible glue is non-toxic and safe for consumption, making it ideal for use on cakes and other edible items.

Tips for Using Edible Glue

Apply Sparingly: Too much glue can make the decorations soggy and cause them to slide off. A small brush or a water pen can help apply a thin, even layer.
Allow for Drying Time: Depending on the humidity and the materials involved, it might take a few minutes to an hour for the glue to set completely.

Whether you're a novice baker or a seasoned cake artist, mastering the use of edible glue can elevate your decorating skills. By ensuring that your decorative elements are securely attached without compromising the cake’s integrity or appearance, edible glue can help you achieve both beauty and stability in your cake creations.

Rainbow Dust SCE Tylo Powder 120 g

100% edible
High grade
Extra fine
Used to make modelling Pastes, Flowerpaste, Edible Glue

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Renshaw Fondant Icing - White, 1 kg

Extra firm and elastic for perfect coverage
Perfect blank canvas for creativity
So simple to use and store
Ideal for all of your creations from cakes, cupcakes, bakes to cake craft fun

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Make Your Own Fondant Cake Decorations

Take a look at some of our most popular mould designs where you are sure to find something for any occasion. All our award-winning, food-safe moulds are designed and made in our UK factory with EU and FDA-compliant food-grade silicone.