Using ready-to-roll icing (also known as fondant) on cupcakes is a simple process that adds a professional, smooth finish. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Preparing the Icing and Cupcakes
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Bring the Icing to Room Temperature: This is crucial! Cold icing is stiff and prone to cracking. Allow the ready-to-roll icing to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to become pliable.
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Lightly Dust Your Work Surface: Use powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent the icing from sticking.
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Knead the Icing: Knead the icing until it's smooth and elastic. This will remove any air bubbles and make it easier to work with.
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Prepare the Cupcakes: Ensure your cupcakes are completely cool. You can lightly frost them with buttercream or ganache to provide a sticky base for the fondant, but this is optional. A very thin layer is all you need.
Applying the Icing
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Roll Out the Icing: On your dusted surface, roll out the icing to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3mm). You want it thin enough to be easy to handle but thick enough to avoid tearing.
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Cut Out Circles: Use a cookie cutter or a sharp knife to cut out circles of icing slightly larger than the top of your cupcakes. A good starting point is about 2-3 inches in diameter, adjusting as needed based on the size of your cupcakes.
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Place the Icing on the Cupcakes: Carefully lift each circle of icing and center it on top of a cupcake.
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Smooth the Icing: Gently smooth the icing down from the center outwards, working your way to the edges. Use your fingers or a fondant smoother to remove any air bubbles or wrinkles.
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Trim Excess Icing (Optional): If you want a very clean look, you can trim any excess icing around the base of the cupcake with a sharp knife or pizza wheel. Alternatively, you can gently press the edges around the cupcake for a softer, more rounded look.
Decorating Your Fondant-Covered Cupcakes
Now comes the fun part! You can decorate your cupcakes with:
- Edible Markers: Draw designs directly onto the fondant.
- Sprinkles: Adhere sprinkles with a dab of water or edible glue.
- Fondant Cutouts: Use cookie cutters or molds to create shapes from fondant and attach them to the cupcakes.
- Edible Glitter: Brush on edible glitter for a sparkly effect.
- Royal Icing: Pipe delicate designs using royal icing.
Enjoy your beautifully decorated cupcakes!
