What is gum paste?

Gum paste is a type of sugar paste that is commonly used in cake decorating. It is made from a mixture of sugar, water, and edible gums such as gum tragacanth or tylose powder. Gum paste is pliable and easy to work with, making it ideal for creating intricate flower and figurine decorations.

Gum paste can be colored with food coloring to create vibrant designs and can also be rolled out thinly to cover cakes for a smooth, polished finish. It dries hard and holds its shape well, making it a popular choice for creating edible decorations that need to stand upright on a cake.

One of the key benefits of gum paste is that it dries quickly, allowing decorators to create intricate designs and decorations without having to wait for them to set. However, it can become brittle if exposed to moisture, so it is important to store gum paste creations in a dry environment.

Overall, gum paste is a versatile and useful medium for cake decorators looking to add intricate and detailed designs to their creations.