How to Put Fondant Icing on a Cake?

Applying fondant icing to a cake involves several key steps to achieve a smooth and professional finish. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Steps to Apply Fondant Icing:

Prepare Your Cake: Ensure your cake is completely cool and has a smooth, even surface. Crumb coating with buttercream frosting is essential to provide a good base for the fondant.
Prepare Your Fondant: Knead the fondant until it becomes pliable and smooth. This is important for easy rolling and application.
Roll Out the Fondant:
- Dust your work surface lightly with powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent sticking.
- Roll out the fondant using a rolling pin, aiming for an even thickness. Make sure the circle of fondant is large enough to cover the top and sides of your cake.
Transferring the Fondant:
- Carefully roll the icing onto your rolling pin, ensuring it is securely draped.
- Position the rolled fondant over the cake and gently unroll it over the top. This method minimizes the chances of tearing or stretching the fondant.
Smoothing the Fondant:

Smooth the icing across the top of the cake using your hands, a fondant smoother, or a palette knife, working outwards from the center.
Carefully ease it smooth along the sides, pressing gently to eliminate air bubbles and wrinkles.

Once the fondant is smoothly in place, use a sharp knife or pizza wheel to trim the excess icing, leaving a small border at the base.
Finally, press smooth against the side of the cake by tucking the remaining border under the base or smoothing it down with a fondant smoother.

Use a thin layer of edible adhesive, such as water or piping gel, on the crumb coat to help the fondant stick.
Avoid over-handling the fondant as it can become sticky and difficult to work with.
When rolling fondant, ensure consistent thickness to avoid lumps and uneven coverage.
Work quickly to prevent the fondant from drying out, which can lead to cracks.
Use a fondant smoother to remove any air bubbles and creases.
If you encounter small tears or holes, you can usually patch them with a small piece of fondant and a bit of edible adhesive.

By following these steps and tips, you can achieve a beautifully finished fondant-covered cake.