This dense gel colour is easy to turn into “edible watercolours”. Dab a little colour onto a palette or small plate and dilute it with a few drops of clear high-proof spirit (vodka works well). The more alcohol you add, the lighter and more translucent the shade – just like with watercolour paints. Paint with a fine brush directly onto dried fondant or set icing; the alcohol evaporates in moments, leaving just clean colour behind. Let each layer dry before adding the next, and feel free to shade from lightest to darkest. Water works too, but it dries slower and the result is usually less crisp.

ProGel is gluten-free, suitable for vegetarians and vegans, and certified halal and kosher. It won't affect the taste of your bake, so you can add colour without worrying it'll change the character of your dessert.

Add the colour in small drops and build it up gradually – you can always add more, but you can't take it away. As a guide, up to 3 g of colour should be enough for 1 kg of cake and decoration. Store the tube sealed at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.

ProGel Purple – gel food colouring. / Ingredients: glycerol, silicon dioxide, propylene glycol, colours: E122, E133. / E122 (azorubine) may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children. / Weight: 25 g. / Use: gel colour for colouring fondant, buttercream, marzipan, batters and other confectionery pastes. Apply in small amounts. / Storage conditions: store sealed at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. / Best before: see packaging. / Suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Gluten-free. Halal and kosher certified. / Country of origin: United Kingdom.