For the first few times that one opens a container of glitter powder, one will note that some of it drops on the counter. Some of the powder lands on the cake while some land on one’s shirt. The powder is very fine and floats in the air and everywhere else.
What Edible Luster Dust Is and Why It Behaves the Way It Does
Edible luster dust is a very fine, food-safe powder. It gives off a glow of a soft metallic substance or pearls rather than glittering sparkle. Its particles are so fine that they adhere to any moisture and move even in the presence of a light breath of wind. This is what makes its coating look uniform, but this is also why messiness becomes inevitable. You control the moisture and the airflow; you control the dust.
Set Up Before You Open the Jar
The mess is largely done within the first ten seconds, so be prepared first by ensuring the following:
• Ensure that there is parchment paper or baking paper placed on the workspace.
• Take some in a bowl and not the paintbrush directly in the bowl.
• Ensure that the ceiling fan is off and the oven door is closed if you are close.
• Get a paper towel which will be used to clean the paintbrush when changing color.
Dry Brushing on Cakes
Dry brushing adds a soft shine to fondant, gum paste, and hard chocolate. Use a soft brush. Put a little of it on the brush. Tap some of it out by touching the brush to the side of the dish. Move the brush gently over what you want to paint. Do this in light strokes. Go layer by layer. Two thin coats will look better than just one thick coat. They also fall off less.
This way works best when the surface is dry, but not very hard. If you use fresh buttercream, it will smear. So, put it in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes first.
Painting Cookies with a Liquid Mix
For gold lettering or metallic icing decorations, the powder can be made into a paint. To do that, take a little of the powder and mix it with a little of clear vodka or clear flavoring like lemon flavoring. The vodka dries quickly, leaving behind the color and therefore will not make the icing soft like water.
Mix just what you need for one batch. Stir it often. The powder will go to the bottom if you do not. A step-by-step guide for both wet and dry ways is in this guide on how to use luster dust.
Check the Label Every Time
This part is more important than any other way you do things. Some shimmer powders for cakes say they are "non-toxic" or "for decorative purposes only." These are not for eating. America's Poison Control Center found some cases where non-edible luster dust caused illness, like when six kids in Rhode Island got sick in 2018 after they ate a cake with rose gold dust. That dust had high copper in it.
A true food product will show its stuff on the pack and say it is "edible." If there is no list of what is in it, do not put it on food.
So before you bake again, get a jar of luster dust that you can eat. Lay out your parchment, and use just a little at first. You will end up using less, and you won't waste as much as you think.
FAQs
Is it possible to use water to create luster paint?
You can do it but it will take longer for it to dry and may cause the sugar to be wet and liquid. Instead, you should use clear extract or other such substances.
Will luster dust change the taste?
No, food-grade ones do not have much taste to them if used in moderation.
Can I use it on buttercream?
Yes, but this can only be done once the buttercream has become cold. You need to use a dry brush and apply it carefully or use an airbrush instead.
How do I remove the powder from the floor?
A damp towel will help you do so, while a dry one will just move the powder instead.
Conclusion
Shimmering does not necessarily mean being messy. Prepare your area, measure small quantities, select the appropriate method for different surfaces, and always look at the labeling to see if the product is food-safe. This technique is perfect for a wedding cake, cookies, or drinks. Luster food dust adds some elegant touch to your treat without having to make any mess during clean up. So what will you be trying it on first?