Azubutter 300g - Premium Vegetable Shortening for Fondant and Cake Design
Main Description
Discover Azubutter, the reference vegetable shortening from the Spanish brand Azucren, specially formulated for the demands of professional cake design. This 100% white vegetable fat is established as a must-have for European cake designers concerned with quality and health. With its convenient 300g format, Azubutter offers all the performance of a premium shortening to soften, lubricate, and facilitate the work of your fondant, pastillage, and other delicate preparations.
Azucren Quality: European Excellence
Azubutter stands out with its optimized composition meeting the strictest European food health standards:
Superior health formulation:
- 0% trans fatty acids (TFA) - completely eliminated from the manufacturing process
- Partially non-hydrogenated vegetable fats
- Compliant with WHO and EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) recommendations
- Modern alternative for responsible and healthy pastry
Professional technical performance:
- Neutral white creamy texture at room temperature
- Optimal melting point for comfortable handling (18-22°C)
- Absolute taste neutrality: does not alter any flavor
- Exceptional stability without refrigeration needed
The Azucren advantage: As a brand specialized in ingredients for cake design and creative pastry, Azucren developed Azubutter with a deep understanding of the specific needs of European cake decorators and continental quality standards.
Professional Applications in Cake Design
Softening of Sugar Paste and Fondant
The flagship application of Azubutter remains the softening of hardened, dry, or difficult-to-work fondant:
Optimal usage method:
- Take a small amount (5-8g for 500g of fondant)
- Slightly warm the Azubutter between your clean, dry hands
- Incorporate gradually into the fondant by kneading vigorously
- The dough regains its flexibility and elasticity within minutes
- Adjust the quantity according to the initial hardness and age of the fondant
- Never exceed 2% of the total dough weight
Benefits noticed immediately:
- Rehydration and regeneration of dry or old pastes
- Malleable and elastic texture prolonged throughout the work duration
- Easier spreading without cracks, fissures, or tears
- Drastic reduction of waste of expensive raw materials
- Substantial savings on your sugar paste purchases
Professional tip: For colored fondant already worked or started, Azubutter helps to "revive" the dough without altering its original shade, unlike adding water which can cause unwanted marbling or color variations.
Lubrication during Rolling and Spreading
Rolling out (spreading) fondant and pastillage requires an effective non-stick agent without compromising the final finish:
Application on work surface:
- Lightly grease your work surface with Azubutter
- Use absorbent paper or paper towels to spread an ultra-thin uniform layer
- The fondant or pastillage detaches effortlessly without excessive handling
- No residue of starch, powdered sugar, or starch altering the visual appearance
- Work surface remains clean and tidy
Advantages compared to traditional methods:
- Sharper and shinier finish than with powdered sugar which dulls
- No change in the color or shade of the dough
- Better subsequent adhesion when covering the cake
- Significant time savings in post-work cleaning
- Removal of sugar dust in the workshop
Advanced technique: For large pieces (wedding cakes, tiered cakes), apply Azubutter in concentric circles from the center outward for even distribution.
Greasing Cutters for Perfect Cutouts
Consistently achieve clean, precise, and professional cutouts with Azubutter:
Professional application technique:
- Apply a minimal trace of Azubutter on a small clean, dry brush
- Brush only the inside of the cutters (cutting edges)
- Lightly wipe off excess with a clean paper
- Cut your shapes from fondant, pastillage, or flower paste
- Cutouts release without deformation, sticking, or handling
- No visible greasy residue on the dough
Especially ideal for:
- Complex and highly detailed shapes (lace, arabesques, openwork patterns)
- Fine letters, slender numbers, and delicate typography
- Metal cookie cutters naturally prone to sticking
- Multiple series cuttings without the need for constant re-greasing
- Work with particularly sticky and tricky pastillage
Guaranteed result: Sharp contours without smudges, perfectly defined angles, ultra-fine details fully preserved.
Anti-Stick Protection for Gumpaste
Gumpaste, a noble but extremely demanding material, particularly benefits from the properties of Azubutter:
Specific professional uses:
1. On the work surface:
- Completely prevents sticking during sugar flower modeling
- Allows ultra-thin spreading (less than 1mm) without tearing
- Facilitates repositioning of pieces during work
2. On modeling tools:
- Lubricates veiners for break-free demolding
- Greases embossers (texturizers) for perfect imprints
- Protects ball tools and bone tools from sticking
3. On the hands:
- A few microscopic traces on the fingers prevent unsightly fingerprints
- Smooth handling without drying out the dough
- Ultra-smooth finishes on petals and foliage
4. In relief molds:
- Greatly facilitates extraction of complex molded pieces
- Preserves the finest details (veins, textures, reliefs)
- Prevents tearing when demolding deep shapes
Professional result: Ultra-fine details preserved, delicate petals intact, flawless textures worthy of top cake designers.
Easy demolding for all preparations
For all your creations requiring delicate and break-free demolding:
Various workshop applications:
Chocolate molds:
- Silicone, polycarbonate, or Tritan molds
- Thin brush coating before pouring
- Clean demolding with preserved mirror shine
Cake pop and lollipop molds:
- Light greasing for easy extraction
- No deformation of spherical shapes
- Smooth finish with no touch-up needed
3D molds for sugar pieces:
- Complex sculptures fully unmolded
- Modeled chocolate extracted without breakage
- Perfectly released pastillage pieces
Candy and praline molds:
- Alternative to expensive release spray
- Controlled application without excess
- Compatible with all types of ganaches
Detailed operating procedure:
- Apply a thin layer of Azubutter with a soft brush
- Distribute evenly, focusing on corners and reliefs
- Remove any visible excess with clean paper
- Fill the mold according to your usual recipe
- After complete crystallization/setting, unmold effortlessly
- The glossy finish is fully preserved
Composition and Nutritional Information
Ingredients and Formulation
Product composition:
- Refined vegetable fats (exact composition according to manufacturer formulation)
- Trans fat free (process without partial hydrogenation)
- Emulsifiers and stabilizers compliant with European (EU) standards
- Natural antioxidants for optimal long-lasting preservation
Nutritional Values (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Approximate quantity | % RI* |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 900 kcal / 3760 kJ | 45% |
| Fats | 100 g | 143% |
| - of which saturated fatty acids | 25-35 g** | 125-175% |
| - monounsaturated fatty acids | 40-50 g** | - |
| - of which polyunsaturated fatty acids | 20-30 g** | - |
| - of which trans fatty acids | 0 g | 0% |
| Carbohydrates | 0 g | 0% |
| - of which sugars | 0 g | 0% |
| Dietary fiber | 0 g | - |
| Proteins | 0 g | 0% |
| Salt | 0 g | 0% |
*Reference Daily Intakes for an average adult (8400 kJ / 2000 kcal)
**Indicative values, exact composition varies according to the manufacturer's precise formulation
Allergens and Dietary Information
Allergen declaration:
- May contain traces depending on production line (check batch labeling)
- Always check packaging for up-to-date information
Generally free from:
- Gluten
- Lactose
- Milk proteins
- Eggs
- Tree nuts (depending on formulation)
Particularly suitable for:
- Vegetarian diets (to be confirmed depending on the origin of emulsifiers used)
- Lactose intolerant individuals
- Gluten-free preparations
Other characteristics:
- Alcohol-free: Yes
- Non-GMO: According to manufacturer declaration
Format and Packaging
Product Technical Specifications
Product Identification:
- Net Weight: 300 grams
- Packaging Type: Food-grade plastic jar with resealable airtight lid
- Brand: Azucren (Spanish brand specialized in cake design ingredients since 1989)
Physical characteristics:
- Color: Pure white, uniform
- Texture: Semi-solid creamy at room temperature (18-22°C)
- Appearance: Homogeneous without lumps or separation
- Smell: Neutral characteristic of vegetable shortenings
300g format: The Practical Asset
The 300 gram format of Azubutter offers specific advantages that are particularly appreciated:
For amateur and passionate cake designers:
- Ideal quantity without unnecessary overstocking or waste
- Accessible first purchase to discover the product without a big investment
- Optimal preservation even after opening thanks to quick consumption
- Easy storage: minimal bulk in the kitchen
- Light jar and easy to handle
For semi-professionals with moderate volume:
- Fresh stock regularly renewed ensuring consistent quality
- Several jars in rotation for maximum workshop hygiene
- Less bulk than a large format professional packaging
- Easier traceability: one jar = one usage period
For demanding professionals:
- Quality test before commitment on large volumes or industrial packaging
- Practical size for mobile workshops, demonstrations, and classes
- Multiple dedicated jars: one for light colors, one for dark colors
- Prevents cross-contamination of shades
Savings and profitability:
- Very reasonable initial investment
- Risk-free product testing
- Hermetic resealable jar perfectly preserving freshness
- Optimal shelf life after opening for this size
Optimal Storage and Preservation
Guaranteed Shelf Life
Before opening the jar:
Storage at stable room temperature (15-25°C) recommended
- Protected from direct sunlight and UV rays
- Dry environment, away from any source of moisture
After opening the jar:
- Storage: 6 to 12 months at room temperature under optimal conditions
- Hermetic resealable jar preserving all organoleptic qualities
- No refrigeration necessary or even recommended (risk of excessive hardening)
- Stable creamy texture maintained without alteration
- No separation of fat phases
Optimal Storage Conditions
Ideal storage environment:
- Stable temperature between 18°C and 22°C (standard room temperature)
- Controlled humidity: absolutely avoid excessive moisture (risk of oxidation)
- Closed cupboard, dry, protected from intense heat and light
- Keep away from spices, herbs, and odorous products (possible absorption of odors)
- No direct contact with heat sources (oven, stovetops, radiators)
Good hygiene and storage practices:
- Seal the lid tightly immediately after each use
- Use clean and completely dry utensils for all sampling
- Never allow water to come into contact with the product (risk of rapid oxidation)
- Avoid cross-contamination: never re-dip a utensil that has touched another preparation
- Regularly check the appearance, smell, and color of the product
- Clean the rim of the jar after use to ensure the lid's seal
Signs of optimal quality:
- Uniform white color without yellowing or graying
- Smooth homogeneous texture without lumps or crystallization
- Characteristic neutral odor without rancid or unpleasant notes
- No visible separation between different phases
Detailed Instructions and Precise Dosages
Recommended Professional Dosages
To soften fondant or sugar paste:
- Standard ratio: 1 to 2% of dough weight
- Concrete example: 500g fondant = 5 to 10g Azubutter (1 to 2 level teaspoons)
- Method: Incorporate gradually by kneading until desired consistency
- Golden rule: Never exceed 2% of total weight to avoid greasy effect
To grease work surfaces:
- 40x40cm work surface: 2-3g is more than enough
- Application: Ultra-thin layer with absorbent paper in circular motions
- Frequency: Renew if necessary after 3-4 successive spreads
- Warning: Excess creates greasy spots on the dough
To lubricate cookie cutters:
- Quantity: Microscopic trace with a fine brush
- Technique: Brush only the internal sharp edges
- Yield: A 300g jar allows several hundred uses
- Tip: Lightly wipe excess to avoid marks
For unmolding in molds:
- Dosage: Thin film invisible to the naked eye
- Tool: Clean, dry soft brush
- Areas: Focus especially on corners and deep reliefs
- Technique: Remove all visible excess before filling
Advanced Professional Techniques
Technique 1: Recovery of Very Hardened Fondant
Problem: Old fondant, completely dry, cracked, almost unusable
Azubutter solution in 6 steps:
- Cut the hardened fondant into small 2-3cm pieces
- Add 1% Azubutter (5g for 500g fondant)
- Knead vigorously for 3-5 minutes crushing the pieces
- Let rest for 10 minutes tightly wrapped in cling film
- Knead again for 2-3 minutes: the magic happens
- Result: The fondant regains a like-new texture, soft and malleable
Technique 2: Mixing with Colorants without Alteration
Issue: Coloring + softening simultaneously
Optimal protocol:
- First color your fondant with your usual gel or powder colorants
- Knead until the color is perfectly uniform
- If the dough is too firm, gradually incorporate Azubutter
- Advantage: No risk of discoloration or marbling
- Note: Azubutter never alters pigments unlike water
Result: Preserved vibrant colors + ideal working texture
Technique 3: Laminating Large Pieces (Wedding Cakes)
Context: Dough spreading to cover a 40cm diameter cake
Professional method:
- Apply the Azubutter in concentric circles from the center outward
- Measure sparingly: 3-4g maximum for 50x50cm
- Spread onto absorbent paper to homogenize
- Place your fondant in the center and start rolling
- Advantage: Perfectly even distribution without dry or greasy spots
Benefit: Smooth spreading, easy movement, no sticking
Technique 4: Ultra-Thin Gumpaste Flowers
Challenge: Petals less than 1mm thick without tearing
Azubutter Solution:
- Microscopically grease your fingers with Azubutter
- Apply a trace on the special flower work mat
- Lightly lubricate the veiners and formers
- Work the gumpaste with maximum fluidity
- Result: Translucent petals, perfect veins, zero breakage
Level: Advanced haute couture cake design technique
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between Azubutter and a classic vegetable shortening? Azubutter stands out due to its formulation with 0% trans fatty acids, meeting the strictest European standards. It is a new generation shortening, specifically optimized for professional cake design.
Can Azubutter be used in traditional pastry? Yes, absolutely! Azubutter can replace butter or margarine in many recipes: American cookies, pie crusts, shortbread biscuits, frostings, glazes. Its high melting point makes it particularly stable during baking and in warm climates.
Is the 300g size sufficient for regular use? For occasional amateur use (1-2 cakes per month), the 300g jar easily lasts 6 months to 1 year. For an active professional, this size allows testing the product before ordering in larger quantities, or maintaining several jars in rotation for optimal freshness.
Does Azubutter leave a taste or smell on the fondant? No, Azubutter is completely neutral in taste and smell. It does not alter the flavor, color, or scent of your preparations. It is precisely because of this neutrality that it is favored by professionals.
Should Azubutter be refrigerated after opening? No, refrigeration is not only unnecessary but even discouraged. The cold excessively hardens the product and makes it difficult to use. Simply store it at room temperature (18-22°C) in its tightly sealed jar.
How long does Azubutter keep after opening? Under optimal conditions (jar tightly closed, stable room temperature, clean utensils), Azubutter keeps 6 to 12 months after opening without quality degradation.
Is it compatible with a vegetarian diet? Vegan? Azubutter is 100% plant-based and generally suitable for vegetarians. For strict vegans, it is necessary to verify that the emulsifiers used in the formulation are not of animal origin (information available on the product label).
Can Azubutter be frozen? Technically yes, the product tolerates freezing, but it is completely unnecessary. Storage at room temperature is excellent (up to 12 months after opening), freezing offers no advantage and may even slightly alter the texture after thawing.
How much to use for 1kg of very hard sugar paste? For 1kg of very hardened fondant, start by incorporating 10-15g of Azubutter (about 1 tablespoon). Knead vigorously for 3-5 minutes, let rest for 10 minutes, then reassess. Add an additional 5g if necessary, never exceeding 20g total (2%).
Does Azubutter stain clothes or work surfaces? Like any fat, Azubutter can leave greasy marks if used excessively. However, when used correctly in a thin layer, it does not stain and cleans easily with warm soapy water. On clothes, pre-treat with dishwashing liquid before machine washing.
Can Azubutter be mixed with CMC (tylose)? Yes, excellent technique! For fondant that is both flexible to work with but then firms up for stable structures: first soften with Azubutter (1%), then incorporate CMC (0.5%). Let mature for 2 hours. Optimal result for complex tiered cakes.
Is the product suitable for people with allergies? Azubutter generally does not contain gluten, lactose, eggs, or nuts. However, always check the specific batch label for the full list of allergens and possible trace mentions according to production lines.
Recommended Complementary Products
Complete Azucren Range for Cake Design
Modeling and covering pastes:
- Azucren White Fondant (sugar paste) 1kg - premium texture
Additives and enhancers:
- CMC (Tylose) - professional firming agent
- Liquid glucose - elasticity and shine
- Edible glycerin - maintains flexibility
- Food glue - invisible assembly
Professional Cake Design Tools
Essentials for working with Azubutter:
- Non-stick silicone mat with graduated rulers (40x50cm)
- Professional rolling pin with adjustable rings
- Set of metal cutters in various shapes (alphabet, numbers, patterns)
- Professional smoothers and polishers (to smooth and polish)
- Complete modeling tools 8-12 pieces
- Veiners for realistic flowers
- Assorted food brushes (fine, medium, wide)
Work surfaces:
- Marble or granite board (ideal cold surface)
- Textured mats for decorative effects
- Special foam flower mats
Patissland Expert Tips
Tip 1: "Double Softening" Technique
For extremely hard or old fondants:
Step 1 - Pre-softening:
- Cut the fondant into 3cm pieces
- Place 10 seconds in the microwave (minimum power)
- The fondant becomes slightly warm and more receptive
Step 2 - Incorporation of Azubutter:
- Immediately add 1-1.5% Azubutter
- Knead while the fondant is still warm
- Residual heat facilitates incorporation
- Let cool and rest for 15 minutes
Result: Even the most stubborn fondants get a new lease on life. 100% savings of fondant that would have been discarded.
Tip 2: Creating "Custom" Fondant
Combine Azubutter and CMC for optimal performance:
Professional formula:
- 1000g of white or colored fondant
- 10g of Azubutter (1%) - for immediate flexibility
- 5g of CMC/Tylose (0.5%) - for controlled firming
- Knead vigorously for 5 minutes
- Rest 2-3h in airtight packaging
Advantages of this formula:
- Maximum flexibility during work (thanks to Azubutter)
- Progressive firming after application (thanks to CMC)
- Ideal for complex structures and tiered cakes
- Perfect hold even in hot or humid climates
- Award-winning professional technique
Tip 3: Marbling Technique (Fluid Marbling)
Create spectacular watercolor and marbled effects:
Creative protocol:
- Divide your fondant into 3-4 equal parts
- Color each portion a different shade (harmonious gradient recommended)
- In each color, add an extra pinch of Azubutter (0.5% more)
- Knead each color separately until homogeneous
- Assemble the colored pieces WITHOUT fully kneading
- Roll out: the colors naturally blend into smooth gradients
Artistic result: Watercolor effects, organic marbling, subtle gradients impossible to achieve otherwise. The extra Azubutter smooths transitions between colors.
Tip 4: Optimal Storage of Worked Fondant
Extend the shelf life of your dough leftovers:
Professional preservation method:
- After use, gather all scraps and leftovers
- Knead with a micro-dose of Azubutter (0.3-0.5%)
- Form a smooth and homogeneous ball
- Wrap tightly in a double layer of cling film
- Place in an airtight box or freezer bag
- Store at room temperature away from light
Extended shelf life: 3-6 months instead of 2-4 weeks. Azubutter prevents drying out and maintains flexibility.
Tip 5: Easy Tool Cleaning
Effectively remove residual Azubutter:
After use on work surface or tools:
- Wipe off excess with paper towel
- Wash with very hot water + degreasing dish soap
- For stubborn stains: sprinkle baking soda, rub, rinse
- Alternative: 70° alcohol on a clean cloth (small surfaces)
- Dry thoroughly before storing
Pro tip: To quickly clean your hands between tasks, rub them with a little cornstarch or powdered sugar before washing. The particles absorb grease and make removal easier.