Ingredients
Swiss Meringue
Condensed Milk Fondant
Airy Sugar Frosting
Instructions
Step 1
Combine the sugar and egg whites in a heatproof bowl. Warm the mixture over a double boiler, whisking until the sugar dissolves completely. *Check* to make sure the sugar is dissolved by rubbing the mixture between your fingers. Once dissolved, remove it from the heat and beat on high speed until you achieve the desired consistency, either soft or stiff peaks, depending on your preference. Midway through beating, add the lemon juice. This portion is enough for about four cakes with a diameter of 90 mm (approximately 3.5 inches).
Step 2
Simply combine the *sweetened condensed milk*, powdered milk, and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth and lump-free. If you prefer a more liquid fondant, *add more condensed milk*. This specific proportion creates a glossy mixture that sets quickly. Immediately after applying the fondant, sprinkle each cake with toppings to prevent them from sliding off. This recipe should cover one cake with a diameter of 90 mm (approximately 3.5 inches).
Step 3
Start by soaking the gelatin in water and let it swell for about 20 minutes. Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Remove from heat, add the swollen gelatin, and beat the mixture at medium-high speed until the desired thickness is reached. Add the lemon juice towards the end. The longer you beat, the thicker the frosting will become. This glaze can be used to create a very fluffy *cake topper*. If you prefer a classic glaze, make it more liquid to cover two cakes. Once set, the glaze remains *non-sticky* and doesn't crumble.
Servings
Equipment
A versatile kitchen tool crucial for achieving the right texture in your Swiss meringue. Make sure it is clean and grease-free for best results!
Opt for a heatproof one if you're using it over a double boiler for the Swiss meringue.
Essential for whipping your ingredients into a light, airy masterpiece. If you don't have one, a hand mixer can suffice, but might require more elbow grease! 😉
An absolute must-have for gently heating egg whites and sugar without cooking the eggs. If you lack a double boiler, improvise with a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water.
Perfect for creating syrup bases. Ensure it distributes heat evenly to avoid burning sugar.
Variations
Whether you're cutting out gluten or choosing plant-based options, there’s no need to miss out on these delightful Easter glazes! 🌿
Gluten-Free Variation: 🌀
Luckily, this recipe is already wonderfully gluten-free! Just double-check your powdered sugar and decorations to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
Vegan Variation: 🌱
For a vegan twist, swap the egg whites in the Swiss meringue with aquafaba, the magical liquid from a can of chickpeas. Additionally, check that your sugar is organic or labeled vegan to ensure it hasn’t been processed with bone char. Replace gelatine with agar-agar in the fluffy sugar glaze for that perfect plant-based touch. Enjoy the same glossy and stunning glazes - minus any animal products!
Faq
- Why is my meringue not forming peaks?
This could be due to grease or fat residue in your mixing bowl. Make sure all equipment is perfectly clean and dry. Also, ensure that you’re whipping at a high speed long enough to form those peaks.
- How do I prevent the glaze from sliding off the bread?
Let your Easter bread cool completely before applying any glaze. A warm surface will cause the glaze to slide off. Also, use just the right consistency: not too runny.
- What consistency should my syrup be for the sugar glaze?
You're aiming for a thick syrup. A soft-ball stage (about 235°F or 112°C) is often ideal when you drop some syrup into cold water, it should form a ball that you can squish between your fingers.
- Can I prepare the glazes in advance?
While the Swiss meringue is best used immediately, the fondant glaze can hold for a couple of days in an airtight container. Re-whip it slightly before use for smoothness. The sugar glaze might crystallize, so it's best done fresh.
- How can I add flavor to my glazes?
Feel free to introduce vanilla extract, almond essence, or grated citrus zest into your glazes. Just add them sparingly towards the end of mixing for a delightful hint of flavor without altering the texture.
- Is there a trick to getting a shiny finish on my glaze?
For ultimate shine, make sure your meringue is beat until perfectly smooth. Also, you can gently torch the top with a kitchen blowtorch for that subtle sheen and slight caramelization on the Swiss meringue.