Marzipan is made mainly from finely ground almonds and sugar, and it often includes egg whites to help bind it into a smooth, moldable paste.

What’s in it

  • Blanched almonds or almond paste.
  • Sugar, usually confectioners’ sugar.
  • Egg whites in many traditional recipes.
  • Sometimes almond extract, glucose, or corn syrup for flavor and texture.

Easy distinction

Marzipan and almond paste use similar ingredients, but marzipan usually has more sugar, so it is sweeter and smoother.

Common uses

It’s often shaped into fruits, candies, or cake decorations, and it can also be used as a filling in pastries.