Fondant Icing Recipe

450g/1 lb/2 cups caster (superfine) or lump sugar
150 ml water
15 ml/1 tbsp liquid glucose or
2.5 ml cream of tartar

Method:

Dissolve the sugar in the water in a large, heavy-based pan over a low heat. Wipe down the sides of the pan with a brush dipped in cold water to prevent crystals forming. Dissolve the cream of tartar in a little water, then stir into the pan. Bring to the boil and boil steadily to 115°C/242°F when a drop of icing forms a soft ball when dropped into cold water. Slowly pour the syrup into a heatproof bowl and leave until a skin forms. Beat the icing with a wooden spoon until it becomes opaque and firm. Knead until smooth. Warm in a heatproof bowl over a pan of hot water to soften, if necessary, before use.