Providing Gloss or Sheen to Sauces, Fillings, and Glazes

Many thickening and gelling agents form a smooth layer that clings to the surfaces of ingredients. This smooth layer reflects light in a way that provides gloss or sheen to many sauces, fillings, and glazes. Mirror glazes on cakes are a good example of this feature. Mirror glazes are commonly made with gelatin or pectin, two gelling agents that not only provide sheen but also are crystal clear.