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Full blog post with written instructions http://artisancakecompany.com/2013/05/how-to-make-shiny-edible-gems/
Quick video on how to make shiny edible isomalt (sugar) gems for your cakes, cupcakes or other decorations.
Materials:
Isomalt (http://astore.amazon.com/articakecomp-20
)
non-stick pot
parchment paper
oven mits to protect your hands
scissors
candy making mold (buy from amazon or local cake store)
latex gloves to handle finished gems so you don’t get fingerprints
Isomalt is a sugar substitute that sugar artist have used for years in place of granulated sugar because it is less prone to yellowing, clouding and crystallization. You can make gems out of sugar but it is more advanced. Isomalt is a good way to start out making sugar gems. You can google “isomalt” and find places to buy them. Amazon.com is a good place to buy a bag. It isnt that expensive.
Isomalt IS edible but like I said, it is a sugar substitute and it is made from the same stuff that sugar free candy is made from so it can upset your digestive system if you eat a LOT. It is not meant to be eaten in large quantities, but more for small decorations and eaten in small amounts.
Read more on isomalt here http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-isomalt.htm
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