The colorful icing that resembles playdough and is often used to decorate cakes and pastries is typically referred to as "fondant." Fondant is a smooth, pliable icing made from sugar, water, and sometimes gelatin or glycerin. It is rolled out and draped over cakes to create a sleek, polished appearance. Fondant can be shaped, molded, and cut into various designs, making it popular for creating intricate decorations and cake toppers.
Fondant is available in different colors, allowing bakers to achieve vibrant and eye-catching designs on their cakes. It can also be flavored with extracts or additives to enhance the taste, although fondant is primarily used for its aesthetic appeal rather than its flavor. It provides a smooth canvas for further embellishments and can be easily painted or adorned with additional decorations like edible flowers, figures, or patterns.