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How to use isomalt in your next baking project
• Lynsey Macdonald
If you've heard of isomalt but you're not sure what it is or how to work with it, you've come to the right place! This handy ingredient can create some truly unique elements to add to your cake, turning it into a showstopper. In this post we'll explore how to use isomalt in your next baking project.
Contents:
What is Isomalt?
First things first - what is isomalt?
Isomalt is a really stable substitute for sugar. It is sugar-alcohol derived from sugar beets, and has a similar structure to sugar itself. However, it is actually sugar-free, making it a much lower calorie option. How many times can we say "sugar" in one paragraph - we know! But it's important to know exactly what you're working with.
Isomalt is odourless and has a pleasant but less sweet taste than actual sugar. It's a naturally sourced sweetener, perfect for creating sugar art and decorations.
You can buy isomalt in a variety of forms, from crystals and granules, to ready-tempered and pre-cooked nibs.
How to use Isomalt in baking
Before we get in to the "how", an important safety note. Isomalt must be melted for use, and it becomes extremely hot, so keep it away from children. This is an incredible product, but not one for a cosy family baking session! Be very careful when working with it as the hot isomalt will stick to skin and can cause severe burns. You should always wear ovenproof gloves and protective equipment, and aim to melt in small amounts.
To explore using isomalt in your next baking project, we're working with the fantastic Isomalt crystals from Fractal Colors.
Instructions:
1. Melt slowly in a pot until the isomalt becomes fluid. Stir gently as you go and do not leave unattended.
2. Add a splash of your chosen colouring to achieve the perfect shade - the Fractal Colors FulFill Gel Colourings work beautifully for this.
3. Carefully pour your melted isomalt onto a piece of baking paper - do not touch it! Pour in your desired shape.
4. You can use pegs or clips to create interesting shapes, holding the paper in a certain position while it dries!
5. Lift your newly created isomalt shape off the baking paper and get ready to add it to your cake! If you're not adding it to the cake immediately, ensure they are not temporarily stored anywhere hot/humid, as this can lead to them turning sticky and cloudy.
Is isomalt safe to eat?
Absolutely. Isomalt is a naturally sourced sugar alternative, and perfectly safe to consume in moderation. It should be noted that the body does not actually digest isomalt, so it will just pass straight through the body.
Easy projects for beginners
Like any other type of sugar art, start small and simple. Creating circles for lollipops, or little round gems to add to your cakes or cupcakes is a great jumping off point. These items have no intricate designs; therefore, they allow you to get used to working with the hot isomalt with less pressure!
And once you're comfortable with that? The world is your oyster! We love the cool Isomalt toppers we've seen being added to celebratory cakes lately - they make such an eye catching finishing touch!
Looking for more inspo?
Cake Masters - Review of eeZee Dowels
