Adjust Your Sugar Paste For Perfect Moulded Cake Decorations
In this video tutorial, Ceri Griffiths shows how to prepare and adjust sugar paste or fondant to achieve the best results when used with moulds, specifically tailored for those who have had difficulty with paste sticking or not releasing.
The right consistency and firmness of the paste can make a significant difference in the ease of moulding but will also capture more of the intricate details that a softer paste would miss. By following these steps, you can ensure that your paste is not only perfect for use with moulds but also maintains its taste and edible quality.
Explore Our Mould DesignsChoosing Your Sugar Paste
Start with 500g of any sugar paste or fondant—brand does not matter, so feel free to use whatever is available in your region.
Adjusting With Tilo Powder
Incorporate 5 to 10 grams of Tilo powder or CMC into your base paste. The amount depends on several factors:
- Firmness of the original paste: Start with 5 grams if it's already firm, and up to 10 grams if it's softer.
- Climate conditions: Those in humid environments like the Philippines or Malaysia may automatically need up to 10 grams.
- Personal factors: If you have warm hands that tend to soften the paste, adjusting the Tilo powder is crucial.
It's essential to start with 5 grams and adjust incrementally—adding too much can turn your paste into an unusable brick very quickly!
Kneading and Consistency
Thoroughly knead the paste to ensure the Tilo powder is evenly distributed. Initially, it might seem that the powder won't blend in, but continual kneading will incorporate it fully. This process not only mixes but also activates the Tilo powder, which firms up the paste to an ideal consistency for moulding without losing its edible quality.
Let the Paste Mature
After kneading, place the paste in a plastic bag, remove any air, and let it sit at room temperature to mature for about 30 minutes to an hour. This resting period allows the gum in the Tilo powder to further firm up the paste, making it perfect for detailed work. If you’re not in a rush, letting it sit for a day or two will enhance the firmness, ideal for intricate mould designs.
Colouring Tips
Adding colour, especially dust colour, after the Tilo powder can excessively dry out the paste, making it difficult to work with so do this before you adjust the paste. Conversely, liquid, gel, or paste colours are preferable after the Tilo powder is added, as they don't have the same drying effect.
Rainbow Dust SCE Tylo Powder 120 g
- 100% edible
- High grade
- Extra fine
- Used to make modelling Pastes, Flowerpaste, Edible Glue
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
Ready To Get Started?
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.
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