Marzipan figures have long been a staple on festive tables, and the simple marzipan recipe makes a charming dessert for Christmas celebrations. The process is friendly for families, offering a delightful afternoon of creativity with little ones. This treat has deep roots in our culinary history, and its easy preparation invites cooks of all levels to enjoy a playful, delicious project during the holiday season.
Legends abound about the origin of marzipan, with one enduring tale pointing to the nuns of the Convent of San Clemente in Toledo. During a time of famine, they crafted a humble confection using only almonds and sugar. Whether or not this story is true, it resonates as a symbol of resourcefulness and shared sweetness that has traveled across generations and borders.
For those who love Christmas desserts, here are the steps and ingredients needed to bake charming marzipan figures in under an hour. The result is a colorful assortment of tiny sculptures that can adorn the holiday table or be shared as edible gifts.
Ingredients for six servings:
- 225 grams of sugar
- 250 grams of ground almonds
- 1 egg
Detailing process
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Begin by blending the ground almonds and sugar until a smooth, cohesive mixture forms. Next, separate the egg white from the yolk, saving the white for the dough.
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Stir the egg white into the almond-sugar base, mixing thoroughly until all components come together into a unified dough.
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Then it is time to knead. With clean hands, knead until the dough becomes soft and pliable. If a richer color or flavor is desired, a touch of cocoa powder can be folded in. Divide the dough into portions and shape into a variety of figures using small molds.
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Finally, bake the figures. Preheat the oven to about 200 degrees with the grill function. Brush the tops with a little egg yolk for a glossy finish and bake for eight to ten minutes, watching closely to achieve a golden hue. Once baked, allow the figures to cool before enjoying. This quantity yields roughly 24 marzipan figures.