What Is Marzipan: How To Use It, Curiosities And Tips
Marzipan is known to have originated in the Middle East. There are records showing it was a favourite as long ago as 965 BC. At this stage, it was known to have an orange or rose water flavour.
When the Arabs invaded Spain and Portugal, marzipan was brought to the US. At the time it was a delicacy, reserved only for Kings, Queens and other people of high standing.
It wasn’t until the late 19th century that marzipan became affordable to the general population.
What Is Marzipan Made Of?
What is marzipan? It’s best described as a sweet paste with a delightful almond flavour.
Marzipan's main ingredients are almonds and sugar. The almonds are pressed before being combined with sugar to create the paste. The fact that marzipan ingredients include sugar explains why it was originally a luxury item.
It wasn’t until the 19th century that sugar started to be produced from sugar beet, making it, and therefore marzipan, significantly more affordable.
How To Make Marzipan
Most people are happy to purchase marzipan in their local store, as it’s the best way to ensure the flavor and texture is the same every time.
However, it is possible to make marzipan at home: you simply need to know the marzipan ingredients. You’ll need almonds, powdered sugar, almond extract and water.
It’s necessary to grind the almonds, ideally in a food processor, until they become a powder. Then add the sugar and almond extract and mix. Finally, add a teaspoon of water at a time to get a crumbly dough.
Marzipan ingredients all store well, meaning you can keep the marzipan main ingredients handy and make it when you need it. However, if you prefer to make it in advance, marzipan can be stored in the freezer for long periods.
Adding flavoring to your marzipan is optional.
What Is Marzipan Used For
What is marzipan used for is an excellent question! There are several popular uses for marzipan.
Marzipan Fruits
If you want a realistic reproduction of fruit, then you’re best off purchasing them readymade. However, if you’re a bit more flexible regarding the finished product or simply want to amuse the children for an afternoon, you can purchase a block of marzipan and craft your own shapes. Drops of food colouring help to create the right look.
Of course, you won’t match the quality of the professional effort, which is definitely the recommended approach if you’re trying to impress anyone. It’s one of my favorite additions to almost any event.
Confectionary
Marzipan is sweet, making it the perfect ingredient for a variety of confectionary delights. A personal favourite is marzipan balls. They’re sure to satisfy any sweet cravings.
Simply take your marzipan, cut small pieces off and roll them into balls. Then, coat the balls in melted chocolate and leave them to set. You can even add flavoring to the marzipan to enhance the confectionery treat.
Cake Decoration
Nothing improves a cake more than a layer of marzipan between it and the icing. It adds consistency, flavor and helps the icing stick to the cake.
It’s a popular option in many countries and easy to do. Just take a block of marzipan and roll it out.
Pastries
The main ingredients in marzipan are sugar and almonds, meaning they can enhance almost any mixture. That’s why many pastry chefs will add marzipan to the ingredients. It’s particularly popular as a filling in croissants and similar pastries.
Summing Up
The best way to answer what is marzipan is as a sweet treat. However, if you haven’t tried it before, then I’d recommend starting with marzipan fruits. It’s a delight you’ll want time and time again.
