Candy moulds are an important tool for making all kinds of delicious candies. Whether you are a candy making enthusiast or a professional confectioner, knowing candy moulds is very important. This article will introduce you a comprehensive guide on candy moulds to help you better understand the world of candy moulds. Let's dive into the magical world of candy moulds and add a touch of sweetness to your candy making journey!
What types of candy moulds are there?
Pouring mould:
- Flat die
Flat mould is a common candy mould, also known as "flat mould" or "plate mould". It's usually made of metal or silicone and has a flat bottom and shallow box-like shape. The flat mould is suitable for making candies in flat shapes, such as sugar chips, chocolate chips, etc.
- 3D mould
It is a candy mould with a three-dimensional shape. Unlike traditional flat moulds, three-dimensional moulds can create candy shapes with depth and three-dimensionality. It can be used to make three-dimensional candies, such as animal shapes, character shapes, flower shapes, etc.
- Servo mould
Servo Mould is a special type of mould that is often used in injection moulding process. Compared with traditional moulds, it has higher precision and controllability. Servo moulds achieve a more precise injection moulding process by using servo motors to control the movement of the mould.
- Lollipop mould
It is usually made of food-grade silicone or plastic material, with a stick-like shape and internal structure suitable for lollipop making.
- Fondant mould
It's usually made of food-grade silicone or another soft material and has grooves of various shapes and sizes for shaping the fondant. Fondant moulds are widely used in home-made fondant, commercial candy manufacturing, and festival celebrations. It provides convenient and creative options for making personalized and creative fudge.
Compression moulding mould:
- Disc Moulding Die
The disc moulding mould is a mould specially used for making disc-shaped candies. It's usually made of food-grade silicone or plastic material and has disc-shaped grooves that shape the candy disc.
- Chain Moulding Mould
Also made of food-grade silicone or plastic material, it has a series of connected grooves to form a chain-like structure for shaping the shape of a chain of candies.
The role of candy moulds in candy making
Candy making is inseparable from candy moulds. The following are several important functions of candy moulds in candy making:
- Shape shaping
Candy moulds can give candies a specific shape and look, such as animal shapes, flower shapes, hearts, and more. By choosing different moulds, various candy shapes can be made, adding to the attractiveness and uniqueness of the candy.
- Consistency & Precision
Candy moulds ensure candy consistency and precision. The grooves or raised structures inside the moulds ensure that each candy has the same size, shape and detail, resulting in a uniform and beautiful candy appearance.
- Improved production efficiency
Using candy moulds can greatly improve the efficiency of candy making. Compared with hand-made, the mould can make multiple candies at the same time, and can be reused, reducing the production time and labor costs.
- Creative Expression
Candy moulds provide a platform for creating unique, creative candies. Making candies with specific themes or candy moulds designed according to personal creativity allows makers to fully express their creativity and imagination.
How to choose a suitable candy mould?
1.Crafting needs: Consider your crafting needs and determine the type and amount of candy you want to make. Different moulds are suitable for different types of confectionery, such as pouring moulds for pouring liquid materials, and compression moulding moulds for compression moulding of solid materials.
2.Appearance and shape: Consider the appearance and shape of the candy you want to make. Candy moulds offer a wide variety of shape options such as animals, fruits, letters, and more. Choose the corresponding mould according to your preferences and theme needs.
3.Material and quality: The material and quality of the mould directly affect the production process and the quality of the candy. Choose food-grade mould materials, such as food-grade silicone or plastic, to ensure that the moulds are hygienic, durable and easy to clean.
4.Ease of operation and use: Consider the ease of operation and use of the mould. Moulds should be easy to fill with material, demould and clean. Choose a mould with good design and structure to improve the efficiency and convenience of use.
5.Creativity and Personalization: If you want to achieve unique creativity and personalization, you can choose custom moulds. Custom moulds can be made to your specifications and designs to meet specific creative needs.
Can I customize hard candy molds?
The process of customizing hard candy molds is to first choose the shape and size you want, and then send these requirements to the company or individual who specialize in making molds. You can provide the pattern you designed or describe the shape you want, and they will make corresponding hard candy molds according to your requirements.
How about the price of hard candy mold?
The price of hard candy molds can vary depending on several factors. The following are some of the main factors that influence the price:
Size and shape: Larger or complex molds will usually be more expensive than smaller or simpler molds.
Material: Hard candy molds are usually made of food-safe silicone or plastic. The cost may vary from material to material.
Quantity: If you need a large number of custom hard candy molds, the supplier may offer volume discounts.
Design complexity: If your design is very complex or requires special processing, the cost of making the molds may increase.
Suppliers: Prices may vary from supplier to supplier, so it is recommended that you compare and negotiate with multiple suppliers.
Benefits of Hard Candy Molds
Diversified Shapes: The hard candy molds can be customized into various shapes and patterns, such as animals, flowers, letters, etc. This allows you to create unique and personalized hard candy products.
Tips for using candy moulds
Preparation:
Before using the candy moulds, make sure the moulds are clean and dry. To clean moulds, use warm water and a mild detergent, then allow to dry thoroughly. Make sure there is no residue or grease on the surface of the moulds to preserve the quality and appearance of the candies.
Apply lubricant:
Before filling the confectionary material, apply an appropriate amount of edible lubricant (such as cooking oil or vegetable spray) to the inner surface of the mould. This prevents the confectionary material from sticking to the mould and makes demoulding easier.
Control the temperature and viscosity of the material:
According to the requirements of the candy material, control the temperature and viscosity of the material. Different confectionery materials may require different temperatures and viscosities to fill the moulds. Follow the directions in the candy recipe and adjust the temperature of the material by heating or cooling for the best filling.
Fill the mould evenly:
Fill the confectionery material evenly into the mould. Using a tool such as a funnel or squeeze bag, pour the confectionery material into the grooves or spaces of the mould, making sure the filling is even and free of air bubbles.
Be careful with angles and gentle handling when unmoulding:
after the candy has completely set, start unmoulding. Gently twist or tap the back of the mould to help the candy come out of the mould. Make sure to release at the right angle and force to avoid damaging the candy or the mould.
How to prevent candies from sticking to candy moulds?
Apply Lubricant:
Before filling with confectionery material, apply a generous amount of lubricant to the inside of the mould. Common lubricants include cooking oil or vegetable sprays. Lubricants reduce the adhesion of the confectionery material to the mould surface, making it easier for the confectionery to release from the mould.
Control the viscosity of the material:
According to the characteristics of the candy material, control the viscosity of the material. If the candy material is too viscous, it will increase the contact area between the candy and the mould, causing sticking. The viscosity of the confectionery material can be adjusted by adding the appropriate amount of water or other liquid, or by adjusting the heating and cooling times.
Cooling and setting:
After filling the moulds, make sure the confectionery material is sufficiently cooled and set. Once the candies are completely set, it will be easier to unmould. The mould can be placed in the refrigerator to speed up the cooling and setting process.
Proper handling when demoulding:
Pay attention to proper angles and gentle handling when demoulding. Gently twisting the mould or using a gentle tap will help the candy to release from the mould while reducing friction and sticking to the mould.
Warm water soak:
If the candy is still stuck to the mould, you can soak the mould in warm water for a while to soften the sticking candy. Then gently rub the mould or clean it with a soft brush to remove the candy from the mould.
What is the difference between soft candy moulds and hard candy moulds?
Soft candy moulds and hard candy moulds are two different types of candy moulds with some differences between them.
- Soft Candy Moulds
Material: Soft candy moulds are usually made of food-grade silicone or soft plastic material with a soft texture.
Elasticity and flexibility: The soft candy mould has high elasticity and flexibility, which makes it easier for the candy to come out of the mould.
Applicable candy types: Soft candy moulds are suitable for making soft candies, jelly, jelly candies and other candies that require a soft texture.
Details and Textures: Soft candy moulds can take on more details and textures, giving the candies a more refined look.
- Hard Candy Moulds
Material: Hard candy moulds are usually made of plastic or metal materials with a hard texture.
Rigidity and Stability: Hard candy moulds have high rigidity and stability, allowing the confectionery material to retain its shape and be easy to handle.
Applicable candy types: Hard candy moulds are suitable for making hard candies, chocolate candies, mints and other candies that require a hard texture.
Accuracy and Consistency: Hard candy moulds can provide higher precision and consistency, making the candy shape more regular and uniform.
How long will the candy moulds last?
The lifespan of candy moulds varies based on a number of factors, including mould material, frequency of use, care and storage, and more. Generally speaking, good quality candy moulds will last a long time with proper use and care. Food-grade silicone moulds generally have a long service life, while plastic moulds may have a relatively short service life. To prolong the life of the candy moulds, it is recommended to clean the moulds regularly, avoid excessive stretching or twisting, and store in a dry place out of direct sunlight. Please evaluate the condition of the mould according to the actual situation and replace it in time to ensure the quality and appearance of the produced candies.
How to choose the size of the candy mould?
Candy Sizes:
Determine the size range of candies you wish to make. According to the desired size of candy, choose the corresponding mould size. If you want to make small candies, choose a small size mould; if you want to make large candies, choose a large size mould.
Quantity to make:
Consider how many candies you want to make at one time. If you need to make candy in batches, choose a mould with multiple grooves or bits, which will allow you to make multiple candies at once for greater efficiency.
Candy appearance and shape:
The size of the mould is also related to the appearance and shape of the desired candy. According to the design and shape requirements of the candy, choose the appropriate mould size. For example, if you want to make slim lollipops, choose the slim mould size.
Ease of operation:
Choose the mould size that suits your operation. Consider your hand dexterity and comfort and choose a size that is easy to fill and release.
Making space:
When choosing a candy mould size, also consider your making space and storage space. Make sure the mould you choose is the right size for your work area and storage space, and avoid oversized or non-portable moulds.
What's the best way to clean candy moulds?
Warm Water and Mild Detergent: Using warm water and a mild detergent to clean candy moulds is a common and effective method. Mix warm water with a small amount of mild detergent, then gently wipe the surface of the mould with a soft cloth or sponge to remove stains and residue.
Vinegar: If the mould has a stubborn stain or smell, try cleaning it with vinegar. Mix vinegar with warm water, then dip a brush or sponge into the vinegar solution, gently scrub the surface of the mould, and then rinse with clean water.
Bleach: For moulds that need to be thoroughly sanitized, bleach can be used. Mix diluted bleach with water, then soak the mould for about 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with clean water to ensure that there is no residual bleach on the surface of the mould.
Avoid sharp tools: When cleaning candy moulds, avoid using sharp tools that can scratch or damage the surface of the moulds. Choose a soft brush, sponge or cloth for cleaning.
The Easiest Steps to Clean Candy Moulds
- Prepare warm water
- Add neutral detergent
- Stir water and detergent
- Scrub mould
- Flush mould
- Dry mould
How to find a good candy mould maker?
If you are looking for a candy mould maker , ESM Candy Machinery is a candy mould maker with a good reputation. They are known for offering high quality and innovative candy moulds. ESM Candy Machinery's products are manufactured with food-grade materials for superior durability and long life. They have a wide selection of mould designs to meet different confectionary making needs. In addition, ESM Candy Machinery also provides customized mould services, making moulds according to customers' special requirements and designs. They are committed to providing their customers with quality products and excellent customer service. By choosing ESM Candy Machinery, you get reliable and innovative candy moulds to help you create beautiful candies.
