Isomalt

Isomalt Uses

Isomalt will not caramelize when heat is applied to it the way sugar does and it won’t take on that light-brown to yellow “caramel” hue. This makes it a very good medium to create great design elements for cakes that need to have a clear color. Gemstones, windows for gingerbread houses, and glamorous sparkling mosaics are just a few elements that can be made using isomalt.

Isomalt also can be sculpted or molded into pretty much any shape. It is important to use molds that can withstand very high heat and avoid plastic molds that can distort or even melt under heat. You also must take special care to work carefully and safely with this medium to avoid burns. Isomalt is sticky and hard to remove when it’s hot. It’s not something you want stuck to your skin and can cause serious burns.

How to Cook With Isomalt

Preparing the isomalt to make design elements is different depending on which form you are starting with at the beginning. If you are using the granule form the process will be very similar to creating sugar work and the same care needs to be taken to avoid issues.

Try to work in a low humidity area and use a candy thermometer to track the temperature of the simmering liquid. Remove any impurities or foam that forms on top of the liquid so your finished product is clear and as close to perfect as possible.

If you are using ready-to-use isomalt sticks you can simply place the desired amount and color into a silicone container and microwave the sticks a few seconds at a time, stirring until they have melted completely.

The best molds to use for creating gems or other elements are made of silicon or designed specifically for hard card making use. Make sure you spray your molds with vegetable spray before pouring the very hot melted isomalt into the design or it still may stick and ruin all your hard work.