Creating A Sparkling Wedding Cake With Glitter

A glitter wedding cake is the perfect way to add some serious sparkle to your special day. In this guide, we'll teach you how to make a glitter wedding cake that is not only beautiful but also safe to consume. Using edible glitter and a few simple techniques, you can create a cake that is both glamorous and elegant. We'll also offer tips on how to make your own edible glitter at home and provide ideas for customizing your cake to match your wedding theme. So, whether you're a professional baker or a DIY enthusiast, get ready to add some sparkle to your wedding cake!

Choosing the right type of glitter

When it comes to choosing the right type of glitter for your wedding cake, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the glitter is edible and made from food-grade materials. Avoid using non-toxic craft glitter, as it is not meant to be consumed. Look for products labelled as “edible” or “food-grade.”

There are various forms of edible glitter available, including dust, flakes, and shimmer powders. Fine glitter will give your cake a subtle shimmer, while chunky flakes will make a bolder statement. Choose a colour that complements your wedding theme and the overall look of the cake. Gold and silver are popular choices for wedding cakes, but you can also find edible glitter in various colours to match any theme.

If you want to make your own edible glitter, you can follow a recipe using ingredients like gelatin, water, and edible metallic dust. However, if you don't want to make your own, there are reputable brands that offer high-quality edible glitter, such as Bakell and Never Forgotten Designs.

When applying the glitter to your cake, start by brushing the cake with piping gel or a thin layer of icing to create a tacky surface for the glitter to stick to. Place greaseproof paper under the cake to catch any falling glitter. You can then use your hands or a brush to gently pat the glitter onto the cake, filling in any gaps to create an even layer.

How to make your own edible glitter

To make your own edible glitter, you'll need either granulated white sugar or salt, and some liquid food colouring.

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Then, add your chosen colour to a snap-lock bag with the sugar or salt. Massage the food colouring through the granules until you reach the desired colour.

Next, lay out your coloured sugar or salt on a foil-lined baking tray and bake for 8-10 minutes. Remove the tray from the oven and allow the mixture to cool on the tray for one to two hours. Finally, transfer your edible glitter to an airtight container and store it away from direct light.

Your edible glitter will keep in a cool, dry place for up to six months, but its colour and sparkle may begin to fade over time.

Applying glitter to the cake

Firstly, you'll need to decide whether to buy edible glitter or make your own. Edible glitter is available in many shades and is easy to find in the market. However, if you want to make your own, you can follow a recipe that uses gelatin and edible dust.

Once you have your glitter, brush the cake with piping gel or a similar sticky substance to help the glitter adhere. Then, using your hands or a brush, carefully pat the glitter onto the cake, filling in any gaps as you go to create an even layer. You can also use a pastry brush to paint the glitter on with a mixture of edible dust and vodka.

If you want to add a different colour or style of glitter, you can do so at this stage. Remember, you don't have to cover the entire cake in glitter—you can add it to just one section or on top of other decorations.

Using glitter with other decorations

There are many ways to use glitter with other decorations to create a stunning wedding cake. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Using Different Types of Glitter

• Combine different types of glitter, such as edible glitter flakes and shimmer powders, to create a multi-dimensional effect.
• For a subtle shimmer, use luster dust, a fine powder that can be applied to dried gum paste and fondant design elements like flowers. Mix it with alcohol for a deeper colour, or apply it dry with a brush.
• For a bolder look, use larger glitter particles or chunky flakes, which will make a statement and be visible from a distance.
• Create your own edible glitter in custom colours by mixing gelatin powder, water and metallic dust.

Combining Glitter with Other Decorations

• Use glitter as an accent on top of other decorations, such as fondant or buttercream flowers, leaves or other shapes.
• Apply glitter to only one section of the cake, or just the top tier, for a more subtle effect.
• Add fresh blooms or sugar paste flowers on top of a glittery cake for a romantic, elegant touch.
• For a glamorous effect, pair gold glitter with dark chocolate, or white chocolate with pastel-coloured glitter.
• Use a stencil to create glitter designs, such as hearts, stars or initials, on top of a frosted cake.

Remember, when using glitter, it's important to use food-grade, edible products to ensure they are safe for consumption. Enjoy experimenting with these ideas to create a magical, sparkling wedding cake!

Removing glitter before eating

Adding a little sparkle to a wedding cake can create glamour and fun. There are many products available for cake designers to add a bit of shimmer and glitter, such as sanding and coarse sugars, luster dust, edible glitter, and metallic sprays.

However, it is important to note that not all glitter is edible. If you are unsure about the safety of a sparkly product, it is best to avoid adding it to your cake or put it in an area that does not touch the icing. Non-toxic glitter, for instance, should not be consumed and must be removed before eating.

• Place a piece of greaseproof paper underneath the cake to catch any glitter that drops down. This way, you can easily collect and dispose of the excess glitter without it coming into contact with the rest of the cake.
• Use a brush to apply the glitter to specific areas of the cake that you want to make pop. By using a brush, you can control the amount and placement of the glitter, making it easier to remove before serving.
• Apply the glitter to fondant or hardened icing. This way, you can easily peel off the fondant or icing before consuming the cake.
• If using edible glitter, ensure it is made from ingredients considered food by the FDA, such as maltodextrin, cornstarch, sugar, acacia (gum arabic), and color additives approved for food use. Avoid products with unfamiliar ingredients, as they may be non-toxic and not intended for consumption.
• If you are purchasing a cake from a baker, ask about the type of glitter used. Commercial bakers must adhere to specific guidelines regarding the ingredients they use, but it is always good to be vigilant.

Remember, while a little sparkle can enhance the appearance of your wedding cake, it is crucial to prioritize food safety and ensure that any non-edible glitter is removed before serving and consuming the cake.

Frequently asked questions