How to Make Sugar Paste Flowers

How to make sugar paste flowers

Sugar paste flowers are versatile decorations for cakes and cupcakes of all sizes. The size, colour, and theme of the cake will determine the size, colour, and type of flowers you need. In some cases you might need one colour but various sizes. In other cases, you might need to keep all of your flowers the same size but several colours. Either way, making your own sugar paste flowers is really easy - especially with ready-made fondant available in most stores.

You will need:

• Fondant
• Food colouring of your choice
• Flower cookie cutters
• Sheet of plastic
• Glass or marble rolling pin
• Pasta machine (optional but preferable for consistency)

Method:

• Start by mixing your fondant with the desired food colouring. Remember, add a little bit at a time until you achieve the colour you want. Even if you only have access to primary colours, combining them will still allow you to create a wide variety of colours.
• Roll your fondant out until it's relatively flat before running it through your pasta machine. You might need to run it through on a thicker setting before adjusting and running the fondant through again.
• If you don't have a pasta machine, then you will need to roll your fondant out with a rolling pin and do your best to make sure that it's as thin and even as possible.
• Use the floral cookie cutters to cut out the shapes. Press down hard and wiggle them around a bit to ensure smooth edges.
• Remove the flower and place under a sheet of plastic to prevent it from drying out.
• Continue to make the rest of your flowers and store them in the same way.
• When you are ready, gently shape your flowers with your fingers. If you need flat flowers, then leave them as they are. If you like you can raise the petals and create a base to secure to the cake. You can also add some sugar paste in another colour for the centre of the flower if desired.
• Let your flowers stand at room temperature to dry out before storing in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Remember, moisture must be avoided and you should protect your flowers by padding them with paper towels. Not only do paper towels create a barrier between each flower, but they also absorb excess moisture.
• Use your flowers as soon as possible for best results.