Glycerin, a thick, syrupy liquid, is a magic ingredient in baking with a multitude of uses. It's a humectant, meaning it attracts and retains moisture, making it a baker's best friend for keeping baked goods soft and fresh for longer. Here are some specific ways glycerin shines in the kitchen:

1. Moisture Master:

• Cakes and Muffins: Adding a teaspoon or two of glycerin to your cake or muffin batter keeps them moist and fluffy, even days after baking. It traps moisture within the crumb, preventing dryness and crumbliness.
• Icing and Frosting: Glycerin keeps icings and frostings soft and spreadable, preventing them from hardening or cracking. It also adds a beautiful shine to your creations.

2. Crystallization Control:

• Candy Making: Glycerin helps prevent sugar crystals from forming in candies like fudge and caramel. This keeps your candy smooth and silky.
• Fondant: Fondant can be tricky to work with, but adding a little glycerin makes it more pliable and less likely to crack or tear.

3. Texture Tweaker:

• Royal Icing: Royal icing can be notoriously hard and brittle. A touch of glycerin keeps it soft and chewy, making it easier to pipe and decorate with.
• Buttercream: Glycerin adds creaminess to buttercream, preventing it from crusting over. This makes it perfect for piping and decorating cakes and cupcakes.

4. Bonus Benefits:

• Glycerin is generally odorless and flavorless, so it won't interfere with the taste of your baked goods.
• It's a vegan and vegetarian-friendly ingredient.

Tips for Using Glycerin:

• Start with a small amount, usually 1-2 teaspoons per recipe. Too much glycerin can make your baked goods greasy or heavy.
• Add glycerin to wet ingredients like batter or icing.
• Be aware that glycerin can slightly sweeten your baked goods.

With its versatility and moisture-boosting power, glycerin is a valuable tool for any baker. So, next time you're whipping up a batch of cakes or cookies, reach for the glycerin and bake with confidence!