In a large bowl(non-metallic), sieve the icing sugar and make a well in the centre

Prepare a hot bath

Place the metallic bowl in the hot bath and add water

Sprinkle the gelatin to the warm water

Stir to dissolve the gelatin. NB: if the water is hot lumps will form making it hard for gelatin to dissolve

Now add the glycerine, glucose syrup and essence to the dissolved gelatin and mix well

Ensure the mixture stays warm

Pour the liquid mixture at the centre of the icing sugar and start mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula in circular motion until it start getting stiff

Start kneading with your hands till it starts to form a dough

Add more icing sugar if the dough is too sticky

Transfer the dough to a smooth surface lightly dusted with corn flour

Keep kneading until smooth and pliable

When ready, it should be soft when pressed but not sticky

Let it rest in an airtight bag or wrap with a cling film for 30mins before using it. Once rested knead it again before covering the cake