The Story of Fondant Cakes - Default Tricks Fondant Cakes have been enjoying increasing popularity in recent times. We all may have seen those gorgeous looking fondant cakes at a birthday party or wedding and immediately made a note to self about getting one for our own party we would throw in the future. So what makes them special? Fondant is actually a type of icing on the top of the cake. Not surprisingly, the word Fondant itself is derived from the French word “fondre” which means “to melt”. It is the most commonly used icing or frosting ingredient because of its availability and versatility. This sugary-icing can also be stored for long periods of time.