Posted by Mel on 13th Jul 2026
Edible Glitter vs Lustre Dust: What’s the Difference and How Do You Use Them?
Want to add sparkle, shimmer or a metallic finish to your cakes?
Edible glitter and lustre dust can both create beautiful effects, but they are used in different ways. This guide explains the difference, how to apply each one and which product will give you the finish you want.
Important: check the label
Only use products clearly labelled as edible or made from approved food-grade ingredients. Products labelled “non-toxic” or “for decorative use only” are not the same as fully edible products and should not be applied directly to food that will be eaten.
Edible Glitter vs Lustre Dust
Edible Glitter
Edible glitter creates a noticeable sparkle. Depending on the product, it may be very fine and shimmery or made from larger flakes that reflect more light.
Best for:
- Cupcakes and buttercream swirls
- Cookies and biscuits
- Celebration cakes
- Chocolate decorations
- Adding sparkle to finished details
Finish: Sparkly, bright and eye-catching.
Lustre Dust
Lustre dust is a fine powder used to create a soft pearl, satin or metallic finish. It can be brushed on dry for a subtle shimmer or mixed into a paint for a stronger effect.
Best for:
- Fondant-covered cakes
- Gumpaste flowers and decorations
- Chocolate and moulded details
- Painting lettering and accents
- Gold, silver and pearl finishes
Finish: Smooth, pearlescent or metallic.
The Quick Difference
Choose edible glitter when:
You want visible sparkle that catches the light.
Choose lustre dust when:
You want a smooth shimmer, pearl effect or metallic finish.
How to Apply Edible Glitter
Edible glitter can be sprinkled directly over freshly piped buttercream, wet icing, chocolate or other slightly tacky surfaces.
For more control:
- Use a clean, soft food-safe brush to flick glitter onto the surface.
- Use a pump spray for a fine, even covering over a larger area.
- Apply a small amount of edible glue where you want the glitter to stick.
- Work over baking paper so excess glitter can be collected and reused where appropriate.
Mel’s Tip
Start with a very small amount. Edible glitter is designed to catch the light, so you usually need much less than you expect.
How to Apply Lustre Dust
Dry Brushing
Dip a large, soft food-safe brush lightly into the lustre dust, tap off the excess and gently brush it onto dry fondant, gumpaste or modelling chocolate.
This creates a soft, blended shimmer and is ideal for highlighting flowers, textures and raised details.
Wet Painting
Mix a small amount of lustre dust with a suitable food-grade alcohol-based medium, such as rose spirit, until it reaches a paint-like consistency.
Use a fine food-safe brush to paint lettering, borders, drip details, moulded decorations or metallic accents.
Creative Ways to Use Them
Highlight Details
Brush lustre onto flowers, moulded decorations and raised fondant patterns.
Add Cupcake Sparkle
Sprinkle edible glitter over freshly piped buttercream for an instant party finish.
Paint Metallic Accents
Mix lustre dust into paint for names, numbers, borders and cake details.
Mix Your Effects
Use lustre for a smooth base and finish with edible glitter for extra sparkle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can edible glitter be used on buttercream?
Yes. Apply it while the buttercream is still slightly tacky so the glitter adheres properly.
Can lustre dust be mixed into buttercream?
Lustre dust usually gives the best effect when applied to the surface. Mixing it through buttercream may not produce the same metallic or pearlescent finish.
Can I mix lustre dust with water?
Water may cause some fondant surfaces to become sticky and often does not dry as quickly. A suitable food-grade alcohol-based medium generally gives a smoother finish and evaporates faster.
How should edible glitter and lustre dust be stored?
Keep them tightly sealed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, steam and moisture.
Ready to Try It Yourself?
Whether you're looking for eye-catching sparkle or a beautiful metallic finish, we've got everything you need to make your cakes shine.