Gum Paste (Sugar Flower Dough)

Nov 3, 2026 · By VanillaGoods

Baking Frostings fillings toppings Medium

A pliable sugar dough that dries very hard, used for lifelike sugar flowers and fine cake decorations. Makes 450 g in about 24 hr 25 min.

Prep 25 min

Cook —

Cooling 24 hr

Total 24 hr 25 min

Servings 1

Diet Gluten free, Vegan

Ingredients

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servings

3 ¾ cups (450 g)powdered sugar, sifted
3 ½ tbsp (30 g)cornstarch
1 ½ tbsp (12 g)cMC (carboxymethyl cellulose) powder
½ oz (15 g)white vegetable shortening
1 tbsp (20 g)light corn syrup
3 ½ tbsp (55 ml)hot water

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Instructions

Whisk the powdered sugar, cornstarch and CMC in a mixer bowl.
Stir the shortening, corn syrup and hot water until melted and combined.
With the dough hook on low, add the liquid to the dry mix and mix 5 minutes until a stiff, slightly sticky dough forms.
Turn out, knead with a little shortening on your hands until smooth and stretchy.
Wrap tightly in plastic, place in a zip bag and rest 24 hours at room temperature.
Knead again before using; add a pinch of powdered sugar if sticky, or a drop of water if dry.

Tips

Always keep unused paste tightly wrapped, it dries within minutes.
Roll very thin on a cornstarch-dusted surface.
Dry shaped flowers 24 hours before assembling.

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Recipe FAQ

How long does it take to make gum paste (sugar flower dough)?

Plan on 25 minutes of prep, plus 24 hours to chill. The recipe makes 450 g (1 servings).

How should I store gum paste (sugar flower dough)?

Wrapped airtight, keeps at room temperature 1 month or frozen 6 months.

Can I make gum paste (sugar flower dough) ahead?

Yes. It needs time to chill and set, so it is a good one to make the day before you serve it.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, as written. Check that packaged ingredients such as chocolate, sprinkles and plant butter are labeled vegan.

Made with VanillaGoods

Browse available VanillaGoods products below. Check each product's origin and form against the ingredient list; these recommendations do not change the recipe's quantities or preparation method.