Gumpaste is a popular and versatile material used in cake decorating and sugar art. It is known for its ability to create intricate and lifelike edible decorations, making it a favorite among professional cake decorators and hobbyists alike. However, many people are unsure about the proper way to store gumpaste and extend its shelf life. One common question that arises is whether gumpaste can be refrigerated. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on storing and extending the shelf life of gumpaste.
Understanding Gumpaste
Before delving into the specifics of storing gumpaste, let’s first understand what gumpaste is. Gumpaste, also known as flower paste, is a pliable sugar paste that is primarily made from powdered sugar, water, and a gelling agent such as tylose or gum tragacanth. These added ingredients give gumpaste its unique elasticity and allow it to be molded into intricate shapes.
Gumpaste has several advantages over other types of edible decorations. It dries quickly and hardens, making it perfect for creating delicate and three-dimensional decorations, such as flowers, bows, and figurines. It can be rolled out thinly, almost translucent, allowing for realistic and lifelike creations that are often used in cake decorating competitions and special occasions.
The Importance of Proper Storage
Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the quality and usability of gumpaste. If not stored correctly, gumpaste can dry out and become brittle, making it difficult to work with. On the other hand, if exposed to moisture, gumpaste may become sticky and lose its shape. Therefore, it is essential to find the right balance to maintain gumpaste in its optimal state.
Storing Gumpaste at Room Temperature
Gumpaste can be stored at room temperature for short periods of time, typically up to two weeks. However, there are a few important factors to consider to ensure its longevity. Firstly, it is crucial to store gumpaste in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. You can use a plastic wrap or resealable plastic bag to keep the gumpaste covered and protected from air exposure.
Secondly, it is advisable to store gumpaste in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Heat and humidity can have a detrimental effect on gumpaste, causing it to become sticky and lose its shape. Also, exposure to sunlight can lead to discoloration and fading of the gumpaste decorations.
Extending Shelf Life with Refrigeration
Contrary to popular belief, gumpaste can be refrigerated to extend its shelf life. Refrigeration slows down the drying process of gumpaste, allowing it to be stored for a longer duration without compromising its quality. However, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure proper refrigeration:
1. Wrap the gumpaste tightly: Before refrigerating gumpaste, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This prevents moisture from seeping in and causing the gumpaste to become sticky. It also protects the gumpaste from absorbing odors and flavors from other foods in the refrigerator.
2. Choose the right temperature: The ideal temperature for refrigerating gumpaste is between 36°F and 40°F (2°C and 4°C). This temperature range keeps the gumpaste cool without freezing it, as freezing can alter its texture and make it unusable.
3. Avoid condensation: When removing gumpaste from the refrigerator, allow it to come to room temperature before unwrapping it. This prevents condensation from forming on the gumpaste, which can make it sticky and difficult to work with. It is advisable to leave the wrapped gumpaste at room temperature for at least an hour before using it.
Reviving Dried Out Gumpaste
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, gumpaste may still dry out and become unusable. However, all hope is not lost! There are ways to revive dried out gumpaste and restore its pliability. Here’s what you can do:
1. Add moisture: To restore moisture to dried out gumpaste, you can knead a small amount of vegetable shortening or trex into it. Start by adding small quantities and gradually knead it until the gumpaste becomes pliable again. However, be cautious not to add too much as it may make the gumpaste overly soft and sticky.
2. Steam it: Another method to revive dried out gumpaste is by using steam. Hold the gumpaste decoration over a steaming kettle or use a handheld steamer to gently pass steam over it. The moisture from the steam will penetrate the gumpaste and soften it, making it easier to work with.
3. Store properly: Once you have revived dried out gumpaste, it is crucial to store it properly to prevent it from drying out again. Follow the storage guidelines mentioned earlier, such as placing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap.
In conclusion, gumpaste is a valuable tool in the world of cake decorating, allowing for the creation of stunning and realistic edible decorations. To ensure its longevity and usability, it is important to store gumpaste properly. While it can be stored at room temperature for short periods, refrigeration is an effective way to extend its shelf life. By following the guidelines provided in this article, you can confidently store your gumpaste and enjoy using it for your cake decorating projects for an extended period without any complications.