Creating Fondant Ribbons For Wedding Cakes: A Step-By-Step Guide

Fondant is a soft, thick icing used to coat and decorate cakes. It is pliable, similar in texture and consistency to play dough, which makes it easy to work with and shape. It is often used to cover wedding cakes, and can be decorated with ribbons. To attach a ribbon to a fondant cake, you can use a double-sided satin ribbon, backed with a non-absorbent paper such as waxed or contact paper. Alternatively, you can use a textured ribbon. For satin ribbons, iron the back with waxed paper before attaching. You can use small dabs of royal icing or edible glue to glue the ribbon. You can also use a non-toxic glue stick to adhere the ribbon to itself. Another method is to use the flame of a lighter or candle to carefully seal the edges of the ribbon to prevent fraying, and then use small dots of water to attach the ribbon to the cake.

Choosing the right ribbon

When choosing a ribbon for your wedding cake, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, you need to decide whether you want to use a fabric ribbon or create a ribbon out of fondant. Fabric ribbons can add colour and texture to your cake, whereas fondant ribbons are easier to use and can be moulded to the shape of the cake. If you opt for a fabric ribbon, you can choose from various materials such as satin, matte, or organza. These ribbons come in different widths, and you should select the width based on the desired look and the size of your cake. For example, a 25mm to 38mm width ribbon is ideal for wrapping around each layer of the cake.

Another important consideration is the colour and pattern of the ribbon. You may want to choose a colour that complements the wedding theme or the bride's colour preferences. Some ribbon suppliers offer themed collections, such as wedding, birthday, or Christmas collections. You can also find ribbons with fun patterns like leopard print or mermaid designs, adding a unique touch to your wedding cake.

When selecting a ribbon, it is crucial to consider the type of icing used on the cake. If you are using buttercream, the ribbon may absorb grease and get stained, so a double-sided satin ribbon backed with a non-absorbent paper like waxed or contact paper is recommended. This prevents the ribbon from coming into direct contact with the buttercream. Alternatively, you can use a textured ribbon that is less likely to absorb moisture or grease. On the other hand, if your cake is covered in fondant, you have more options as there is less risk of staining.

Lastly, consider the method you will use to attach the ribbon to the cake. Some common methods include using small dabs of royal icing or buttercream, edible glue, or water. You can also use non-toxic glue sticks or pins, but these options may not be as comfortable for guests consuming the cake. It is essential to ensure that the attachment method is safe and secure, especially if the ribbon is placed around the base of the cake.

Preparing the ribbon

Firstly, measure the circumference of each tier of your wedding cake and cut the ribbon accordingly. It is important to ensure that the ribbon wraps smoothly around each tier, so consider using a ribbon that is between 25mm and 38mm in width. If you want to add a creative touch, you can cut the ribbon into strands to create a ribbon waterfall effect, allowing extra length for draping. Secure each strand with sugar paste, starting from the top tier and working your way down.

Before attaching the ribbon, you can seal the edges to prevent fraying. Carefully use the flame from a lighter or candle to singe the edges of the ribbon. This step will give your cake a neat and polished look.

Now, it's time to attach the ribbon to the cake. There are several methods you can use:

• Use a non-toxic glue stick: Apply a small amount of glue to secure the ribbon to itself, creating a seamless finish.
• Piping gel: Apply small dabs of piping gel every 6 inches to adhere the ribbon to the cake. This method is ideal if you want a discreet way to attach the ribbon.
• Buttercream or edible glue: Apply a thin layer of buttercream or edible glue around the cake to attach the ribbon. This method will provide a strong hold as the buttercream or glue dries.
• Water: Dip the ribbon in water, squeeze out the excess, and attach it to the cake. As the ribbon dries, it will stick firmly to the fondant.
• Wax paper: If you're concerned about grease stains, you can back your ribbon with wax paper. Iron the wax paper onto the back of the ribbon, and then attach the ribbon to the cake.

Remember, if you're using multiple ribbons on each tier, work from the bottom of the tier upwards to ensure a neat finish.

Attaching the ribbon to fondant

Firstly, measure the ribbon against the cake, allowing for some overlap, and cut it to size. If you are using a satin ribbon, you can iron wax paper onto the back of the ribbon to prevent grease stains. You can then use small dabs of royal icing or edible glue to attach the ribbon to the fondant.

Alternatively, you can use a non-toxic glue stick or piping gel to attach the ribbon. If you are concerned about the ribbon slipping, you can use pins to secure it in place, or dip the ribbon in water and allow it to dry before attaching it to the cake.

Another option is to use a strip of parchment paper between the ribbon and the cake to prevent the ribbon from touching the fondant. You can attach the parchment paper with cello tape and then wrap the ribbon around it, using a non-toxic glue stick to adhere the ribbon to itself.

Finally, you can use a lighter or candle to carefully seal the edges of the ribbon to prevent fraying, and then use small pieces of fondant and dots of water to attach the ribbon to the cake.

Attaching the ribbon to buttercream

When attaching ribbon to buttercream, you need to consider the type of ribbon you are using. Fabric ribbons, especially those made of satin, can absorb the grease from the buttercream and become stained or splotchy. To prevent this, you can treat the ribbon with a non-absorbent paper such as waxed or contact paper. You can also use a non-fabric ribbon, such as a ribbon made from gumpaste or fondant, which will not absorb grease and is easier to use.

To attach the ribbon to the cake, you can use a variety of adhesives, including royal icing, piping gel, or buttercream. If you are using a fabric ribbon, you will need to be careful not to get any of the adhesive on the outside surface of the ribbon, as it may be visible. You can attach the ribbon a few inches at a time, and use a small amount of adhesive to secure it in place. Put the seam at the back of the cake and attach the ends with royal icing, covering the spot with a decoration if needed.

Another option for attaching ribbon to buttercream is to use pins. You can use straight pins to secure the ribbon in place, inserting them through the ribbon and into the cake. However, you will need to inform the recipient of the cake about the pins and instruct them to remove them before serving.

If you are concerned about the ribbon slipping, you can also try using a non-slip material such as waxed paper or packing tape between the ribbon and the cake. This will help to create a barrier against the frosting and prevent the ribbon from sliding.

When attaching ribbon to buttercream, it is important to work quickly as the frosting can start to slide. It is also a good idea to have extra hands to help with the process, especially if you are attaching ribbon to multiple tiers.

Finishing touches

Now that you have made your fondant ribbon, it is time to attach it to your wedding cake. First, you need to measure how big the ribbon needs to be and cut it to size. You can wrap the ribbon around the base of each layer of the cake or create a ribbon waterfall with strands of ribbon falling between each layer.

If you are using a buttercream cake, you can attach the ribbon with small dabs of buttercream or royal icing. For a fondant cake, you can use a small dot of water to attach the ribbon. You can also use a non-toxic glue stick or edible glue.

To prevent the ribbon from fraying, carefully seal the edges using the flame of a lighter or candle. You can also use pins, although some people may not feel comfortable with this method. To prevent the ribbon from slipping, you can dip it in water and squeeze out the excess before placing it on the cake.

For a professional finish, roll two small pieces of fondant and use a small dot of water to attach one piece to the back of the cake. Wrap the ribbon around the cake and use another small dot of water to attach the second piece of fondant on top, securing the ribbon in place.

Frequently asked questions