Creating Delicate Fondant Lace For Wedding Cakes

Fondant lace is an intricate part of cake decorating and can be used to adorn wedding cakes. It can be made at home or bought from cake decorating stores. Homemade fondant lace is usually made using a combination of tylose powder, boiling water, confectioner's sugar, cornstarch, and light corn syrup. The process involves mixing the ingredients, achieving the right consistency, spreading the mixture onto a lace mat, drying it, and then carefully peeling it off. The lace can then be applied to a cake using piping gel or edible adhesive. Fondant lace adds an elegant and delicate touch to wedding cakes and can be customized with different colours and designs.

Choosing the right fondant lace moulds for wedding cakes

When it comes to choosing the right fondant lace moulds for wedding cakes, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the size of the mould is important. Lace moulds come in a variety of sizes, from small moulds used for borders and accents to larger mats that produce full sheets of lace. Consider the size of your cake and how much lace you will need, as well as the level of detail you want the lace to have. Smaller moulds might be good for adding intricate details, while larger mats will help you create a more cohesive look.

The design of the lace is also key. You can find moulds with a variety of patterns, from floral and paisley designs to more simple, elegant styles. Choose a design that complements the overall theme and aesthetic of the wedding cake. If you're making a cake for a specific event, you might want to incorporate relevant motifs—for instance, a floral lace design for a spring wedding.

The material of the mould is another important factor. Silicone moulds are a popular choice as they are durable, easy to use, and produce detailed results. They are also flexible, which makes it easier to remove the lace once it has dried. Some silicone moulds also come with a patented trimming blade, making the process of creating lace decorations even faster and more efficient.

When choosing a fondant lace mould, it's also worth considering the reviews from other customers. Look for moulds that are well-made, flexible, and easy to remove from packaging. Reading reviews can also give you an idea of how the lace will turn out and whether it will need any adjustments to fit your cake, as some patterns may be too tall and require trimming.

Finally, think about the cost and where you can purchase the moulds. Websites like Etsy offer a wide range of fondant lace moulds at varying price points, with some sellers offering free shipping for orders over a certain amount. You can also find moulds on specialty baking websites or even in local supermarkets.

How to make fondant lace stick to wedding cakes

To make fondant lace stick to a wedding cake, you can use a variety of edible "glues". Firstly, you can brush a small amount of water onto the fondant, which will help the lace stick. However, be careful not to use too much, as it can drip or run down the side of the cake and cause streaking.

Another option is to make Tylose "glue" by mixing a small amount of Tylose with water and letting it sit overnight. This will form a clear, gelatinous glue that works well for attaching lace to wedding cakes.

You can also make your own sugar glue by melting marshmallow fondant with a little water. This is a quick and easy solution that only requires a few seconds to make.

Additionally, you can use shortening to stick fondant lace to a cake, especially if your decorations are flat. Simply rub a thin layer of shortening onto the cake before applying the fondant lace.

Finally, diluted corn syrup can be used as a sticky glue for fondant lace. Add a small amount of water to corn syrup to thin it out, then brush it onto the cake before attaching the lace.

Storing fondant lace for wedding cakes

Before storing, allow the fondant lace to dry completely. The drying process can take several hours or even overnight, depending on the humidity and temperature of your environment. Choose a flat, clean surface and place the lace on it, ensuring there is enough space between each piece to prevent them from sticking together.

Once the fondant lace is completely dry, you can begin the storage process. Fondant lace is delicate, so it's essential to store it in a container that will protect it from being crushed or damaged. A flat, airtight container is ideal, such as a plastic container with a secure lid. If the container has a flat base, you can line it with a soft cloth or piece of cardboard to provide a gentle surface for the lace.

When placing the fondant lace in the container, take care to layer it carefully. Place a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper between each layer of lace to prevent them from sticking together. This will make it easier to remove and handle the lace when you need to use it. Ensure the container is airtight and store it in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

It is also important to note that fondant lace has a limited shelf life. It is best to use it within a few weeks of preparation to ensure it retains its freshness and texture. If you need to store it for a more extended period, consider freezing it. To do this, wrap the fondant lace tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When you are ready to use the fondant lace, remove it from the container and gently peel back the wax paper or parchment paper layers. If it has been stored in the freezer, allow it to thaw at room temperature before handling it.

Removing fondant lace from moulds

To remove fondant lace from moulds, you must first ensure that the fondant has been smoothed out and that any gaps in the mould have been filled. Then, carefully peel off the silicone mould, folding it and pushing the fondant out, rather than pulling on the fondant itself. This will prevent the fondant from stretching and losing its shape. Place the fondant lace on a tray and leave it to set for a few minutes. If there is excess cornstarch or sugar on the fondant, gently brush it off with a soft-bristled brush.

If you are having trouble removing the fondant lace from the mould, try placing it in the fridge for a few minutes to help release the fondant more easily.

It is important to note that before attempting to remove the fondant lace from the mould, you should ensure that it has set properly. Trying to brush off excess sugar or flour while the fondant is still soft could lead to unsightly brush marks.

Drying fondant lace

Drying Techniques:

• Air-drying: Fondant lace can be left to air-dry at room temperature. This method is suitable for lace that doesn't require a very stiff texture. It typically takes around 4-6 hours for the lace to dry completely.
• Oven drying: For a faster drying process, you can place your fondant lace in the oven at a low temperature, around 80°C. This method is especially useful if you want to create stiffer lace for 3D elements like butterflies. Remember, you're not cooking the lace; the goal is to speed up the drying time, so adjust the temperature and drying time accordingly.
• Half-oven and half air-dry: If you're concerned about the lace becoming too brittle in the oven, you can combine oven drying and air-drying. Start by drying the lace in the oven for a shorter time, and then let it air-dry completely.

Tips for Successful Drying:

• Avoid over-drying: It's important not to over-dry your fondant lace, as this can make it brittle and fragile. If you're using an oven, reduce the temperature and drying time if you notice the lace becoming too hard.
• Humidity control: Fondant lace is sensitive to humidity, which can affect its texture and drying time. To store dried lace, keep it away from humidity by wrapping it in greaseproof paper and storing it in a cardboard box.
• Cornflour dusting: Before storing your fondant lace, dust it with cornflour to help absorb any excess moisture and keep it dry.
• Steaming: While not a drying technique, steaming can be useful for adhering fondant lace to your cake. A quick pass with a steamer will help the lace stick to the cake's surface.

Remember, the key to successful drying is to go slow and adjust as needed. By combining different drying techniques and storing your lace properly, you'll be able to create beautiful and delicate fondant lace decorations for your wedding cakes.

Frequently asked questions