Learn How to Make Rolled Fondant for easy cake decorating as part of my Bold Baking Basics. With my easy fondant recipe, even make homemade sprinkles!
Combine gelatin and cold water; let stand until thick. Place gelatin mixture in top of double boiler and heat until dissolved.
Add glucose and glycerin, mix well. Stir in shortening and just before completely melted, remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Mixture should cool until lukewarm.
Place 4 cups confectioners' sugar in a large bowl. Make a well in the center and using a wooden spoon, stir in the lukewarm gelatin mixture. Mix in sugar and add more a little at a time, until stickiness disappears. Knead in remaining sugar. Knead until the fondant is smooth, pliable and does not stick to your hands. If fondant is too soft, add more sugar; if too stiff, add water (a drop at a time). IMPORTANT NOTE: IF YOUR FONDANT IS WET OR TOO SOFT WHILE MIXING, ADD MORE SUGAR. IT CAN DIFFER DEPENDING ON CLIMATE AND INGREDIENTS.
Use fondant immediately or store in airtight container in fridge. When ready to use, bring to room temperature and knead again until soft.
NOTE: I don't recommend agar agar instead of gelatin as others have had issues using it.
8 cups of powdered/icing sugar will make about 1kg of fondant.