The smooth finish of fondant icing gives the decorated item a clean look. The icing typically comes in white but can be tinted using gel food coloring in various colors. A marbled look mixes together various shades of one color while leaving some areas of white fondant to create a swirled look.
Ingredients
The prepared fondant is the main ingredient necessary for the marbling technique. You can either make your own fondant or purchase it premade from a store that sells cake decorating supplies. Knead your ball of fondant icing until it becomes pliable, smooth and elastic. The kneading process makes it easier to mix in the food coloring and gets the fondant to the desired texture for use. You'll also need gel food coloring in your desired color. The gel type is better than liquid food coloring, which can make the fondant sticky. Tools needed include toothpicks and a rolling pin.
Kneading Method
A simple method to get the marbled look is to knead in the food coloring slightly until you achieve the desired look. Dip a clean toothpick into the colored gel. Press the dipped end into the fondant at different spots. Gently knead the food coloring into the fondant. As you begin kneading, the dots of color start to mix in with the white fondant. You'll notice darker and lighter streaks of the color along with white patches where the food coloring hasn't yet reached. Stop kneading the dough when you reach the desired marbleized look.
Twisting
The twisting method works well if you want to use two different colors other than white. Do a small test batch if you're using two bright or contrasting colors to ensure that the marbling looks attractive. You need two equal balls in the desired colors. Roll each ball separately into a rope or snake shape about 12 to 18 inches long. Gently twist the two colored fondant ropes together. Fold the twisted rope in half. Use the rolling pin to roll out the fondant so that the two colors are squashed together. Because of the twisting, the two colors streak together for a marbleized effect. Keep rolling to get a smooth finish with the desired marble look.
Tips
Roll out the fondant when you think you've reached the desired look. Rolling it out gives you better idea of how the fondant will look when you apply it to the item that you're decorating. If the marbling is too light, roll it back into a ball and add more dots of food coloring. Repeat the marbling process. If it's too dark, use the twisting method with another piece of white or light-colored fondant to make the marbling look lighter. Marble as much fondant as you'll need for the entire project at one time to get a uniform look. If you do multiple batches, you'll likely end up with varying shades or marbling that looks noticeably different.
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