Candy melts, also known as confectionery coating or melting wafers, are a baker’s secret weapon for creating beautiful and delicious cake decorations. Unlike chocolate, candy melts don’t require tempering, making them incredibly easy to work with for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether you’re dreaming of vibrant drizzles, intricate molded shapes, or smooth cake pops, understanding how to properly melt and work with candy melts is essential. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to achieve perfect results every time.
Understanding Candy Melts: Composition and Types
Candy melts aren’t technically chocolate. They are made from a combination of sugar, vegetable oils (usually palm kernel oil or palm oil), milk solids, and artificial flavors and colors. This unique composition is what allows them to melt so smoothly and set so firmly without the need for tempering.
There are countless brands and colors of candy melts available, allowing for endless creative possibilities. Some popular brands include Wilton Candy Melts, Merckens Coating Wafers, and Ghirardelli Melting Wafers. Each brand has its own slightly different flavor and consistency, so it’s worth experimenting to find your favorite.
Color is a key consideration when choosing candy melts. They come in a rainbow of shades, from classic white and dark chocolate to vibrant pinks, blues, and greens. You can even purchase pre-colored melts in popular character themes or holiday palettes. If you need a specific color, you can mix different colors of candy melts together, but be careful not to add too much oil-based food coloring, as this can affect the consistency.
Choosing the Right Melting Method
There are two primary methods for melting candy melts: the microwave and the double boiler. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice will depend on your personal preference and the quantity of candy melts you need to melt.
The Microwave Method: Quick and Convenient
The microwave is the fastest and most convenient way to melt candy melts, especially for smaller quantities. However, it also requires the most attention, as it’s easy to overheat the melts and cause them to seize.
To melt candy melts in the microwave:
- Place the candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave on 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval.
- Continue microwaving and stirring until the candy melts are almost completely melted. There should still be a few small lumps remaining.
- Remove the bowl from the microwave and stir continuously until the remaining lumps melt and the candy melts are smooth and glossy.
Important tip: Be patient and avoid the temptation to microwave for longer intervals. Overheating is the most common cause of seized candy melts.
The Double Boiler Method: Gentle and Controlled
A double boiler provides a more gentle and controlled heat source, making it ideal for melting larger quantities of candy melts or for those who are new to working with them.
To melt candy melts using a double boiler:
- Fill the bottom pot of the double boiler with about an inch of water.
- Bring the water to a simmer over medium heat.
- Place the candy melts in the top pot of the double boiler.
- Make sure the bottom of the top pot doesn’t touch the water.
- Stir the candy melts frequently until they are completely melted and smooth.
Key point: Avoid getting any water or steam into the candy melts, as this can cause them to seize.
Troubleshooting Common Candy Melt Problems
Even with careful attention, you may encounter some problems when working with candy melts. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:
Seized Candy Melts: The Dreaded Gritty Texture
Seized candy melts are often the result of overheating or the introduction of moisture. The melts will become thick, grainy, and difficult to work with.
How to fix seized candy melts:
The fix depends on the cause of the seizing. If it’s due to overheating, sometimes adding a small amount of shortening (like Crisco) can help to smooth things out. Start with about ½ teaspoon per cup of candy melts and stir until smooth. If moisture is the issue, unfortunately, there’s often no saving the batch. Prevention is key here.
Thick Candy Melts: Too Viscous to Work With
If your candy melts are too thick, they may be difficult to drizzle or mold.
How to fix thick candy melts:
Add a small amount of paramount crystals or vegetable shortening (Crisco). Start with ½ teaspoon per cup of candy melts and stir until smooth. Add more as needed, but be careful not to add too much, as this can make the melts too thin and prevent them from setting properly.
Thin Candy Melts: Lacking Body and Structure
While thick melts are a problem, melts that are too thin are also undesirable, especially when using them for decorations that need to hold their shape.
How to fix thin candy melts:
Unfortunately, you cannot fix too thin candy melts. The best approach is prevention. Avoid adding too much shortening or oil to the melts in the first place.
Bloom: Unsightly White Streaks
Bloom refers to the white streaks or discoloration that can sometimes appear on the surface of candy melts. This is usually caused by temperature fluctuations or improper storage.
How to prevent bloom:
Store candy melts in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid exposing them to sudden temperature changes.
Tips for Working with Candy Melts
To achieve the best results when working with candy melts, keep these tips in mind:
- Use clean, dry utensils and bowls. Any moisture can cause the melts to seize.
- Work in a cool environment. This will help the candy melts set more quickly and prevent them from becoming too soft.
- Use parchment paper or silicone mats. These surfaces are non-stick and make it easy to remove your decorations.
- Chill your decorations in the refrigerator. This will help them set more quickly and prevent them from melting.
- Don’t overwork the candy melts. The more you stir them, the more likely they are to thicken.
- Practice makes perfect. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Keep practicing and you’ll soon be creating stunning candy melt decorations.
- Consider using a melting pot: Electric melting pots are available for candy melts, providing even and consistent heat, which greatly reduces the risk of overheating or seizing.
Creative Uses for Candy Melts in Cake Decorating
Candy melts are incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide variety of cake decorations. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:
- Drizzles: Create elegant drizzles by melting candy melts and pouring them over the sides of your cake.
- Molded shapes: Use candy molds to create fun and festive shapes, such as flowers, hearts, or characters.
- Cake pops: Coat cake pops in melted candy melts for a smooth and colorful finish.
- Edible decorations: Create edible decorations, such as leaves, petals, or geometric shapes, by spreading melted candy melts onto parchment paper and cutting out the desired shapes.
- Candy bark: Make candy bark by spreading melted candy melts onto a baking sheet and topping with nuts, sprinkles, or other decorations.
- Seals and Embellishments: Create custom seals or embellishments using silicone molds. Add edible gold leaf for an extra touch of elegance.
- Wafer Paper Integration: Use candy melts as an adhesive to attach wafer paper elements to your cake. This allows for intricate designs and textures.
- Brush Embroidery: Create a brush embroidery effect by piping candy melts onto parchment paper and then gently brushing the edges inwards with a damp brush.
Candy Melt Recipes and Projects
Here are a couple of simple projects to showcase the versatility of candy melts.
Easy Candy Melt Bark
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces candy melts (any color)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds)
- 1/4 cup sprinkles
- Optional: dried fruit, chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Melt the candy melts according to your preferred method.
- Spread the melted candy melts onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with nuts, sprinkles, and any other desired toppings.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until set.
- Break into pieces and enjoy!
Candy Melt Drip Cake
Ingredients:
- Prepared cake
- Frosting
- Candy melts (color of your choice)
- Optional: sprinkles, edible glitter
Instructions:
- Frost your cake.
- Melt the candy melts according to your preferred method.
- Let the melted candy melts cool slightly, until they are a thick, pourable consistency.
- Pour the melted candy melts around the edge of the cake, allowing them to drip down the sides.
- Sprinkle with sprinkles or edible glitter, if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or until the drip is set.
Storing Leftover Candy Melts and Decorated Items
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality of both leftover candy melts and completed decorations.
Storing Leftover Candy Melts:
Allow any leftover melted candy melts to cool completely. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. You can remelt them later for other projects.
Storing Decorated Items:
Store candy melt decorations in an airtight container at room temperature, especially if the air is humid. If humidity is very high, refrigeration might be necessary to prevent the decorations from becoming sticky. However, keep in mind that refrigeration can sometimes lead to condensation, which can affect the appearance of the candy melts.
The Final Touch: Perfecting Your Candy Melt Creations
Working with candy melts is a rewarding experience that opens up a world of possibilities for cake decorating. By understanding the composition of candy melts, mastering the melting process, troubleshooting common problems, and following the tips outlined in this guide, you can consistently create stunning and delicious decorations that will impress everyone who sees them. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors, techniques, and designs to discover your own unique style. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be a candy melt pro in no time! Remember, every masterpiece starts with a single melt!
What are candy melts and why are they used for cake decorations?
Candy melts, also known as melting wafers or confectionery coating, are a type of confectionery specifically formulated for melting smoothly and hardening quickly. They consist primarily of sugar, vegetable oil, and milk solids, often with added coloring and flavoring. Unlike chocolate, they don’t require tempering, making them incredibly convenient and user-friendly for both beginners and experienced bakers.
Their ease of use, vibrant colors, and ability to harden quickly into various shapes and forms make them ideal for creating detailed cake decorations. Common applications include cake pops, molded decorations, drip cakes, bark, and intricate accents. Their versatility and stable nature allow for creating eye-catching designs that hold their shape well at room temperature, adding a professional touch to any cake.
How do I properly melt candy melts to avoid seizing or burning?
The key to perfectly melted candy melts is gentle heat and careful attention. The best methods are using a double boiler or a microwave in short intervals. For a double boiler, ensure the water in the bottom pot doesn’t touch the bowl above, creating steam that melts the candy melts slowly and evenly. For the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until almost completely melted. The residual heat will melt the remaining pieces.
Avoid overheating the candy melts, as this can cause them to seize, becoming thick and unusable. If this happens, try adding a small amount (a teaspoon at a time) of vegetable shortening or paramount crystals to the melted candy and stirring until smooth. Never add water, as this will almost certainly ruin the mixture. Stir frequently, regardless of the method used, to ensure even melting and prevent hot spots.
What types of molds are best for making candy melt decorations?
Silicone molds are generally the best choice for creating candy melt decorations due to their flexibility and non-stick properties. They allow for easy removal of the hardened candy melts without breaking or damaging the shape. Look for molds specifically designed for candy making, as these will often have intricate details and be made from food-grade silicone.
Plastic molds are another option, especially for larger or simpler shapes. However, they require a bit more care when removing the candy melt decorations. To prevent sticking, you can lightly grease the mold with vegetable shortening or use a mold release spray. Avoid using molds with very sharp angles or undercuts, as these can make removal difficult even with proper greasing.
How can I color candy melts and what type of coloring should I use?
To color candy melts effectively, always use oil-based candy coloring. Water-based food coloring will cause the candy melts to seize and become unusable. Oil-based colors are specifically formulated to mix smoothly with the fat content of the candy melts without affecting their consistency. Start with a small amount of coloring and gradually add more until you achieve the desired shade.
Liquid oil-based coloring is readily available, but gel-based oil-based colors are often more concentrated, requiring less to achieve vibrant hues. Ensure the coloring is thoroughly mixed into the melted candy melts to avoid streaks or uneven coloring. Experiment with different color combinations to create custom shades and effects for your cake decorations.
How do I prevent air bubbles in my candy melt decorations?
Air bubbles can detract from the appearance of your candy melt decorations, but there are several ways to minimize their formation. When filling molds, gently tap the mold on the countertop to encourage any trapped air bubbles to rise to the surface. You can also use a toothpick or skewer to poke at any visible bubbles and release them.
Another technique is to let the melted candy melts sit for a minute or two after melting before pouring them into molds. This allows any air introduced during the melting process to dissipate. For larger molds, consider pouring the candy melts in layers, tapping the mold between each layer to release air. A gentle vibrating motion can also help to dislodge bubbles.
How do I store leftover candy melts and decorations made from candy melts?
Unused candy melts should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Properly stored candy melts can last for several months. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as this can cause condensation to form, which can affect their texture and melting properties when you try to use them later.
Decorations made from candy melts should also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid stacking them on top of each other, as they can be fragile and prone to breaking. If you live in a warm or humid climate, consider storing them in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard, to prevent them from softening or melting.
What are some creative ways to use candy melts beyond basic molding?
Beyond molding, candy melts can be used for a wide range of creative cake decorating techniques. Create vibrant drip cakes by pouring melted candy melts over the top of a chilled cake, allowing them to cascade down the sides. Use different colors and consistencies to achieve various drip effects. You can also make candy bark by spreading melted candy melts on parchment paper and adding sprinkles, nuts, or other toppings before they harden.
Another fun technique is to create edible lace or doilies by piping melted candy melts onto parchment paper in intricate patterns. Once hardened, these delicate decorations can be carefully peeled off and used to adorn cakes and cupcakes. You can also use candy melts to create textured effects on cakes by applying them with a spatula or palette knife in various patterns and swirls.