What’s the difference between gum paste and fondant? Many people wonder what sets these two types of frosting apart, and although they share some similarities, there are a few key distinctions. In this blog post, we’ll break down the differences between gum paste and fondant so you can decide which is best for your next cake project.
What is Gum Paste?
Gum paste is a type of sugar paste that is used to create edible decorations for cakes and other desserts. It is made from a mixture of glucose, gum tragacanth, and gelatin, and it can be flavored with various extracts or coloring agents. Gum paste is available in a variety of colors and can be rolled out into thin sheets, cut into shapes, or sculpted into three-dimensional forms. It dries hard and is resistant to moisture, making it an ideal medium for creating intricate decorations that will stand up to the elements. Gum paste can be stored in an airtight container for several months, making it a convenient option for cake decorators who want to prepare ahead of time.
What is Fondant?
Fondant is an icing-like substance that is used to cover cakes and other desserts. It is made from sugar, water, and glycerin, and can be flavored with extracts or fruit juices. Fondant can be rolled out and draped over a cake, or it can be molded into shapes. It can also be used to make decorations such as flowers or leaves. Fondant is available in a variety of colors and can be tinted to match any scheme. Fondant is not typically eaten on its own, but it can be eaten along with the cake or dessert it covers. Fondant that has been rolled out thinly can also be used to make edible wrappers for candy or chocolate.
Difference between Gum Paste and Fondant
Gum paste and fondant are two popular sugar-based pastry ingredients that are often used to decorate cakes and other desserts. While they share some similarities, there are also some key differences between the two. Gum paste is made with Gum Tragacanth, a gum that comes from the root of the Astragalus plant. This gives gum paste a firmer consistency than fondant, which is made with sugar, water, and gelatine. Gum paste is also less sweet than fondant and dries harder, making it ideal for creating detailed decorations. Fondant, on the other hand, is more pliable and can be easily rolled out into thin sheets. It’s also very sweet, which makes it a good choice for covering an entire cake. So, when deciding between gum paste and fondant, it’s important to consider what kind of decoration you’re trying to create.
Conclusion
So, what’s the difference between gum paste and fondant? The main difference is that gum paste sets up harder than fondant so it can be used to create more intricate designs. Fondant is a little easier to work with, but it doesn’t have the same level of stability as gum paste. If you are looking for a stiffer modeling material that will hold its shape better, go with gum paste. If you want something that is a bit easier to work with and has a softer texture, choose fondant.
