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How do you stick fondant to fondant?

By: Author Color With Leo

Fondant is an icing used to decorate cakes and other baked goods. It has a smooth, matte finish that makes it perfect for covering cakes and creating decorative elements. However, working with fondant can be tricky, especially when it comes to getting it to stick to itself or to the cake. With the right techniques and supplies, you can easily stick fondant to fondant for seamless decorating.

Using Fondant Glue

The easiest way to stick fondant to fondant is by using a specialized fondant glue. There are a few different brands of fondant glue on the market, but they all work similarly. Fondant glue is a clear, sticky gel that creates a strong bond between fondant pieces. Here is how to use fondant glue:

  1. Knead the fondant first to soften it and make it more pliable. This makes it easier to stick together.
  2. Apply a thin layer of fondant glue to the surface of the fondant you want to stick. Only use a small amount – too much will make the fondant pieces slide around.
  3. Press the fondant pieces together firmly and hold for 30 seconds. The glue will start to set immediately.
  4. Allow the glued fondant to rest for at least 15 minutes before handling so the glue can fully dry.
  5. The glue forms an incredibly strong, permanent bond. Be precise when placing the pieces since you won’t be able to reposition them once stuck.

Fondant glue gives you a fast, reliable way to stick fondant to itself. It’s great for adhering large fondant pieces like when covering a cake, as well as smaller decorations. Just remember to use it sparingly – a little goes a long way.

Using Water

You can also use plain water to stick fondant to fondant. Water creates a light bond that is less permanent than fondant glue. Here’s how to use water:

  1. Brush a very thin layer of water on the surface of one of the fondant pieces. Do not soak the fondant – just moisten it.
  2. Immediately press the fondant pieces together. The water will act like glue to adhere them.
  3. Smooth the fondant pieces gently to remove any air bubbles and ensure they are tightly connected.
  4. Allow to dry for at least 10 minutes before handling. The bond will get stronger over time.

Water works best for small fondant decorations. The bond is not quite as strong as with fondant glue. However, water may be preferable if you need to reposition pieces slightly as you work.

Using Edible Glue

For a smoother bond, you can make an edible fondant glue. Here is a simple recipe:

  • 1⁄4 cup cornstarch
  • 1⁄4 cup water
  • 1 tsp glycerin
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. There should be no lumps.
  2. Microwave the mixture for 20 seconds. This cooks the cornstarch to make it into a glue.
  3. Stir in the glycerin and whisk until fully incorporated.
  4. Let the glue cool slightly before using.
  5. Apply a thin layer between fondant pieces and press together firmly for 30 seconds.
  6. Allow to dry completely, which takes about 20 minutes with this glue.

The edible glue is safe to consume but provides stronger sticking power than water alone. Glycerin helps keep the fondant from drying out.

Using Fondant to Fondant Icing

You can make an edible glue specifically for fondant by mixing together fondant trimmings. Here’s how:

  1. Collect fondant scraps, the colors do not matter.
  2. Add a teaspoon of vegetable shortening and a teaspoon of water.
  3. Microwave in 5 second intervals, stirring in between, until the fondant is liquid.
  4. Use the melted fondant as glue between pieces.
  5. Let set for at least 30 minutes before handling.

This edible glue uses fondant to stick fondant. The shortening and water give it the right consistency. Melted fondant bonds extremely well to itself.

Using Royal Icing

You can also use royal icing, which is a popular decorating icing made from powdered sugar. Here is how to make royal icing glue:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp meringue powder
  • 1.5 Tbsp water
  1. In a bowl, stir together the powdered sugar and meringue powder.
  2. Add the water and beat on low speed until combined. Increase to high speed for 3-5 minutes.
  3. Beat until the icing is thick, fluffy, and white. It should hold stiff peaks.
  4. Use immediately to glue fondant pieces together or store covered for later use.

Royal icing dries very hard, so it creates a strong fondant bond. You may want to thin it slightly with water first for easier application between fondant layers.

Using Cornstarch

For a quick fix, you can use cornstarch to stick fondant to itself. Here’s how:

  1. Rub a small amount of cornstarch on the surfaces you want to stick together.
  2. Press the fondant pieces together firmly for about 30 seconds.
  3. The cornstarch will form a light bond, similar to using water.

Keep in mind cornstarch can leave a slightly powdery texture. Use this method for temporary bonds or small decorations that need slight adjusting.

Using Vegan Condensed Milk

Here’s another edible glue recipe using vegan condensed milk:

  • 1/4 cup vegan condensed milk
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • Pinch of salt
  1. Whisk together the condensed milk, cornstarch, and salt.
  2. Microwave in 10 second bursts, stirring between each, until thickened to a glue consistency.
  3. Let cool slightly before using to adhere fondant pieces.
  4. Allow at least 20 minutes to dry before handling.

The condensed milk gives this glue a smooth, sticky texture perfect for fondant. The cornstarch helps it set up.

Using Marshmallow Fondant

Marshmallow fondant is pliable and sticky, which makes it ideal for gluing pieces together:

  1. Knead marshmallow fondant until soft and pliable.
  2. Roll or shape into “glue” strips.
  3. Apply the strips to the back of one fondant piece.
  4. Carefully position the second piece and hold together for 30 seconds.
  5. The marshmallow fondant will bind the pieces together as it dries.

Let marshmallow fondant glue dry for at least an hour before handling. If needed, you can also brush lightly with water to dissolve the surface and increase tackiness.

Using Cream Cheese Frosting

For a tasty solution, use cream cheese frosting to adhere fondant. Here’s how:

  1. Make cream cheese frosting by beating together cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar until smooth.
  2. Spread a thin layer on the back of one fondant piece.
  3. Attach the second piece and press together for about 30 seconds.
  4. Allow several hours for the frosting glue to dry before handling.

Cream cheese frosting sticks well to fondant. Make sure the layer is thin enough that it doesn’t ooze out the sides. Once dry, it keeps pieces firmly attached.

Using Chocolate Hazelnut Spread

For delicious results, use chocolate hazelnut spread, such as Nutella, to glue fondant. Here’s how:

  1. Apply a thin, even layer of chocolate hazelnut spread to the back of one fondant piece.
  2. Gently position the second fondant piece on top as desired.
  3. Press together for about 30 seconds so the spread sticks to both layers.
  4. Allow several hours to fully dry before handling or the pieces may slide.

The chocolate hazelnut spread works similar to frosting for adhering fondant. Once dry, it prevents fondant layers from separating while adding sweet flavor.

Using Food Safe Adhesive

There are some food safe adhesives made specifically for fondant and gum paste decorations. These are used like glue:

  1. Apply a small amount of food safe adhesive to one fondant surface.
  2. Carefully position the second fondant piece so the adhesive spreads between the layers.
  3. Press together for at least 30 seconds until securely attached.
  4. Allow several hours for the adhesive to fully cure and bond the fondant pieces together.

Food safe adhesives like Fondx are ideal when you need very strong, permanent bonds for fondant decorations. Once cured, the pieces will stick together indefinitely.

Using Vegetable Shortening

Here’s one more common household option – using vegetable shortening to stick fondant:

  1. Apply a very thin layer of vegetable shortening to one fondant surface.
  2. Attach the second fondant piece and rub together gently.
  3. The shortening temporarily “melts” the surface enabling the pieces to stick together.
  4. Press together for about 30 seconds until adhered. Let rest until the shortening sets again.

Vegetable shortening creates a light bond between fondant layers. This method is best for small decorations that need to be repositioned.

Tips for Sticking Fondant to Fondant

Follow these tips for the best results gluing fondant to itself:

  • Knead fondant first to soften it and make it easier to bond.
  • Apply glues and adhesives in very thin, even layers.
  • Do not soak or saturate the fondant with wet glues.
  • Press pieces together very firmly for at least 30 seconds to ensure good contact.
  • Allow adequate drying time – at least 12 to 24 hours for the best bond.
  • Support or prop glued fondant pieces until fully cured.
  • Use cornstarch or powdered sugar to dust surfaces and prevent sticking if needed.

With the right techniques and materials, you can easily stick fondant to itself for decorating cakes and treats. Be patient, use proper drying times, and avoid over-handling until bonds cure completely.

Troubleshooting Fondant That Won’t Stick

Sometimes, no matter what you do, fondant pieces refuse to stick together. Here are some tips for troubleshooting:

  • Ensure the fondant surfaces are smooth. Rough or uneven areas prevent good contact.
  • The fondant may be too dry. Knead in a small amount of vegetable shortening to restore flexibility.
  • Avoid getting the fondant too wet with liquid glues. This can dissolve the surface and prevent sticking.
  • Add a touch more cornstarch if glue causes fondant pieces to slide around.
  • Press harder and hold together longer – up to 60 seconds – to improve adhesion.
  • Use a food safe adhesive if homemade glues aren’t working.
  • Ensure adequate drying time before handling glued pieces.

With a little trial and error, you’ll find a fondant glue method that works perfectly for your decorating needs. Sticking fondant to itself takes some finesse, but the end result is worth the effort.

Storing Fondant Glue

Here are some guidelines for storing fondant glue:

  • Fondant glue – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 8 weeks.
  • Royal icing – Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 weeks.
  • Edible glues – Refrigerate homemade edible glues for up to 1 week.
  • Cornstarch – Store in a dry container indefinitely.
  • Food safe adhesive – Keep tightly sealed at room temperature up to 1 year.

Let glues come to room temperature before using for smooth, even application. For longest shelf life, keep fondant glues away from excess moisture and heat.

Conclusion

Sticking fondant to itself allows you to create elaborate cake decorations, but it requires the right technique. Using specialty glues and adhesives designed for fondant provides the most secure, long-lasting bonds. You can also get good results with homemade options like edible corn starch glue or melted fondant. Whichever method you choose, be sure to knead the fondant first, apply the glue sparingly, press pieces together very firmly, and let dry completely. With the proper preparation and patience, you can easily achieve perfectly smooth fondant decorations.