Learn more about the timeless appeal of marzipan confections!
If you adore the taste of almonds, you’re probably familiar with the appeal of marzipan. At its most basic, marzipan is a soft and sweet almond paste. While marzipan can be found in chocolate bars, breads, cakes, and pastries, it can also be enjoyed by itself when shaped and carefully colored to look like beautiful fruit. At Wockenfuss Candies, we appreciate the beauty and artistry of marzipan confections. If you also enjoy this dessert—or you want to learn more—discover the lengthy history of this endlessly appealing sweet treat.
How Old Is Marzipan?
Marzipan is common throughout Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America. The earliest written references to “marzipan” are found in Italy and Spain in the 16th century, but this treat is believed to have been around much longer. There is a reference to almond paste in the Arabian Nights stories from the 8th to 14th centuries!
The Meaning of Marzipan
It’s unclear exactly when marzipan became the term for these desserts, as many variations have been found across cultures and history. “Marzapane” is documented in Italian quite early, with its name referring to the Latin “martius panis” or “bread of March.”
An almond and sugar marzipan variant known as “postre regio” in Spain has been traced back to as early as 1150. Certain European cities and regions claim marzipan as their specialty: Spain’s Toledo, Italy’s Palermo, and Germany’s Lübeck.
Marzipan Ingredients
The appeal of marzipan lies in its simple construction. The building blocks are blanched almonds and sugar. These are ground into an emulsion and might include additional components like almond oil, honey, or almond extract. Marzipan is typically molded into a shape unless it’s used to give flavor to a pastry or sits under a layer of chocolate.
Other Uses for Marzipan
Besides being enjoyed by itself or as part of a delicious fruit-shaped variety package, marzipan gives essence to almond croissants, Mardi Gras king cakes, Stollen, and some holiday cookies. It can also be used as a fondant-like layer for cake decoration.
Fruit-Shaped Desserts
Fruit-shaped desserts that are not trying to taste like fruit are “trompe l’oeil,” which means “deceive the eye.” Marzipan is excellent for “deceiving the eye,” as this almond paste can be molded into various shapes representing fruits, vegetables, and animals!
At Wockenfuss Candies, you can find a delicious gift package of Bergen Marzipan. These fruit-shaped marzipan confections are designed to look like oranges, strawberries, lemons, limes, and apples. These sweets are not just beautiful to look at but taste delicious! They make for excellent gifts of appreciation at any time of the year. If you understand the tasty appeal of marzipan, don’t hesitate to enjoy these timeless confections.
A Wide Selection of Delicious Treats from Wockenfuss Candies
Head to WockenfussCandies.com and browse our wide selection of chocolates and candies; we promise you won’t be disappointed! Wockenfuss Candies is one of the oldest candy makers in Baltimore. We opened our doors in 1915 and have proudly served the people of Baltimore ever since. If you have any questions about our wide selection of chocolates, please contact Wockenfuss Candies by calling 1-800-296-4414 or email info@Wockenfusscandies.com. When you’re not savoring our sweets, stay satisfied by following us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest!