You can brighten fondant using a few methods, primarily by adding shine or adjusting the color.
Here's a breakdown of ways to brighten your fondant:
Adding Shine to Fondant
- Egg Whites: Brushing a thin layer of egg whites onto the fondant creates a glossy finish. This method dries relatively quickly (around 2 hours), but be careful as it may leave brushstroke marks. Use a food-safe paintbrush.
- Steaming: Briefly steaming the fondant can create a subtle sheen. Be very cautious not to over-steam, as this could cause the fondant to melt or become sticky.
- Edible Glaze: Applying a commercially available edible glaze spray or brush-on glaze adds a noticeable shine. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for best results.
- Shortening: Lightly rubbing a small amount of vegetable shortening onto the fondant's surface can create a soft sheen. Use a lint-free cloth.
Adjusting Fondant Color
- Adding White Food Coloring: If your fondant is looking dull, adding a touch of white food coloring (gel or paste is best) can brighten the base color. Be sure to knead it in thoroughly.
- Using Vibrant Food Coloring: If the base color of your fondant is muted, consider adding a small amount of more vibrant food coloring to enhance its brightness. Use gel food coloring for the best, most concentrated results.
Considerations:
- Color Theory: Remember basic color theory. If your fondant looks muddy, consider adding a complementary color to balance it. For example, if your fondant is a dull orange, adding a tiny amount of blue might brighten it.
- Consistency: Be mindful of the fondant's consistency when adding liquids (like glazes). Too much liquid can make the fondant sticky or difficult to work with.
- Test First: Always test your brightening method on a small, inconspicuous area of the fondant before applying it to the entire piece.
