Sugar paste

Sugar Paste Recipe – A Delicacy for Cakes and Decorations

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rest time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: enough to cover a 25 cm cake

Sugar paste is an essential ingredient in the art of cake decorating, used not only to cover cakes but also to create artistic ornaments. This simple and quick sugar paste recipe will transform any cake into a masterpiece, and with a little patience and technique, you will achieve spectacular results.

A Bit of History

Sugar paste was popularized in the pastry world as a finer and more elegant alternative to buttercream or chocolate, with deep roots in the history of sweets. It allows not only for a distinct aesthetic appearance but also fantastic versatility in decoration. Whether you want a sophisticated wedding cake or a birthday cake for a child, sugar paste is the perfect solution.

Ingredients:

- 500 g very fine powdered sugar (I recommend Coronita powdered sugar for the finest texture)
- 1 tablespoon gum powder (Wilton's Gumtex is ideal)
- 1 tablespoon liquid glucose
- 5 tablespoons water
- Food coloring (preferably natural, for a healthier option)

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Sifting the Powdered Sugar:
Start by sifting the powdered sugar into a large bowl. This step is essential to avoid lumps in your paste. Make sure the sugar is very fine.

2. Adding the Gum Powder:
Add the tablespoon of Gumtex over the powdered sugar and mix well to ensure it distributes evenly. This will give elasticity to the paste and help maintain its shape.

3. Preparing the Liquid:
In a cup, combine 1 tablespoon of glucose with 5 tablespoons of water. Then, microwave the mixture for 30 seconds until warm but not hot.

4. Mixing the Ingredients:
Pour the warm liquid over the sifted powdered sugar and make a well in the center of the mixture. Start mixing from the inside out, using a spatula or spoon. Add a toothpick tip of coloring if you wish to color the paste.

5. Kneading:
Once the mixture starts to come together, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on the work surface and begin kneading with your hands. Knead well, as if making dough, until the paste becomes smooth and elastic. This is the moment to ensure you achieve the ideal consistency – it should not be sticky.

6. Resting the Paste:
Once you have the sugar paste, place it in an airtight plastic bag to prevent drying out. Let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.

7. Using the Paste:
When you are ready to use the paste, take it out of the bag and knead it again for a few minutes. This will reactivate the elasticity. Work quickly, as the paste will dry out easily.

Practical Tips:

- Natural Colorants: If you choose to use natural colorants, such as beet or carrot juice, heat the glucose with a tablespoon of water and add the juice after it has cooled slightly. It is important to know that the shades will not be as intense as artificial ones.

- Storage: Place the sugar paste in an airtight bag and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for a few months, although it is always better to use it fresh.

- Variations: You can experiment with different flavors (for example, vanilla or almond essence) to add extra taste to the sugar paste.

Nutritional Benefits:

Although sugar paste is primarily a sweet ingredient, using quality powdered sugar, such as Coronita, and natural colorants can make this recipe healthier, being a better option than other artificial glazes. It is important to remember that, due to its high sugar content, it should be consumed in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How can I avoid the sugar paste drying out?
Make sure to keep it in airtight bags and knead it quickly when you take it out for use.

2. Can I use sugar paste on cream cakes?
Yes, but make sure the cream is well set so that the paste does not melt.

3. Can sugar paste be frozen?
Generally, it is not recommended to freeze it, as the texture may change upon thawing.

Serving Suggestions:

Sugar paste is perfect for covering cakes, but it can also be used to create flowers or other decorations. Once you master the art of decorating with sugar paste, you will be able to create customized cakes for any occasion. Pair the cake with a refreshing drink, such as fruit tea or a citrus cocktail, for a complete culinary experience.

In conclusion, making sugar paste may seem intimidating at first, but with a little practice and patience, you will become an expert in cake decorating. So, gather your ingredients and start your creative adventure in the kitchen!