you can make an edible varnish using 50% vodka and 50% corn syrup mixed together. I used it on my poinsettia and was very happy with the results.

http://cakecentral.com/cake-decorating-ftopict-628399-.html

here's a post I did a while back, it has some good info!

when you use steam, once it dries, does the shine go away? If so how long do you have??

Hello from Greece.Would yoy tell me how we steam fondant?I am new and i would like some infromation.Thanks a lot!

OK SO JUST KEEP IN MIND THE SECRETS OF THE KITCHEN, LIKE MOST OF OUR GRANDPARENTS WOULD SAY. LOL SO I TOLD A FRIEND OF MINE THAT I USED CRISCO SHORTENING TO MAKE THE FONDANT SHINNY FOR THE CAKE THAT SHE ASKED ME TO MAKE FOR HER GOOD BYE PARTY. SHE TURNS AROUND AND SAYS TO ME YUCK I CANNOT BELIEVE THAT U ACTUALLY PUT THAT ON MY CAKE AND I AET IT!!! WE THEN STARTED LAUGHING..... SO, YES IT WORKS FINE! AND BEST OF ALL PEOPLE CANT EVEN TASTE IT BECAUSE THE FLAVOR OF THE CAKE ITSELF WILL CONFUSE UR TONGUE. LOL

I too have used the steaming method. It does work well but do be careful when steaming, make sure to not put steam to close to cake. It will cause it to be sticky and it will run if not careful.

I have also used spray vegetable oil (Pam) with success. I would just recommend that you make sure the tip is not clogged ahead of time and spray from high (12" +) above the cake so that you get even coverage.

Fantastic information, everyone. Love these forums and that all are so willing to help!

Will the steam method also work with a gumpaste/fondant mix?
TIA!
Cathy

On Ace of Cakes, they use steam to make their fondant shiny. I havnt tried it yet, but plan to! It looks like it works for them!!

I would just take my iron and use the steam button...

I think I'm going to try the PAM and steam method (separately)just to see what happens...I have a garment steamer and see how it goes...thanks!
Cathy

Airbrush it with vodka, works great everytime

I just did this - used my steam iron and held it above the cake - worked perfectly!

I start making cakes just few months ago and registerred here just yesterday and can't stop reading... Loved all this informations about shiny cakes Im making a cake for st Patrick's day and have a feeling its going to be steamed nice and shiny Cant wait to try it!

Alternatively, the pieces here were painted with vodka mixed with gel colors and petal dusts ( http://cakecentral.com/gallery/1967733 )

Quick question. Has anyone tried corn syrup with vodka? if so, does it dry at all??

Hi! I know I'm new here, but I have been a lurker for a while and love reading all your helpful hints.... I am driving myself crazy with this -- how long does the shine last for? I have tried EVERYTHING recommended here (straight vodka, vodka mixed with corn syrup, vodka with piping gel, spray bottle water, steam from iron, steam from iron then rapid cooling with a fan) and everything evaporates or dries within the hour and the shine is gone.

The only thing that worked overnight for me is spraying Pam.

Please help!

Am I misunderstanding or are these just temporary fixes that will disappear shortly after application?

AThank you ladies for all the info. I'm taking courses but I what I have pictured in my head is definitely ahead of the class

AI used clear corn syrup and vodka and brushed it on to the nail polish bottle cake I made last week...link.. https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=539037642802034&set=a.460305660675233.100199.460272617345204&type=1&theater

AYes it does ...I just guessed the ratios I used but I'm guessing less corn syrup is better..

canola oil spray is what I use. I apply it with a brush.

Sooo seriously would the shine in my cupboard work?  I know this is an old post, but am hoping for a reply..Thank you for your time :)

I just made a cake yesterday with black fondant and a black rose. I used Pam to make it shiny.

ANow where do I get this steamer?? Can't wait to try it, had resigned myself to dull looking cakes! I'm in zimbabwe by the way, u can't find most stuff here!!

AU can use an iron?? I have that!!

Equal parts corn syrup and clear alcohol work great!  Let it dry, and it won't even be tacky.  You can even add additional layers for additional shine.  AND, the shine LASTS (unlike steaming or whites).

I have.  It dries well.  You can add more coats after it dries at well, and make it even shinier!

AI always wondered how to make fondant shiny.. So 50/50 corn syrup n vodka Or steaming Who takes less time in applying and who lasts longer for like an overnight ?

This was done with vodka and corn syrup.  It's wonderful!  (It's an italian evil eye).