Unmolding Gelatins

Appears in
top 1000La Varenne Pratique
La Varenne Pratique

By Anne Willan

Published 1989

  • About
Once set, molded gelatin desserts need to be loosened from the mold and inverted on to a plate for serving. The same technique is used for all gelatin molds, whether or not they are foamy with eggs and cream.

  1. Lower the mold into hand-hot water so it almost reaches the rim. Leave 2-3 seconds for metal molds, 5-8 seconds for ceramic ones. Lift out the mold and dry the base.

  2. Tip the mold sideways and gently pull the mixture away from the edge with your fingertips to break the air lock.

  3. Rinse the serving plate with water so that if the mold does not land centrally, it can be pushed into place. Set the plate upside down on the mold; quickly turn over both together, holding them firmly.

  4. Give a quick forceful shake sideways and down, and the dessert will fall on to the plate. If it sticks, give several shakes. If it still sticks, put a hot, wet cloth over the mold for 10-20 seconds.