Danish marzipan
When it comes to sweet treats, Scandinavia is not typically the first region that comes to mind. However, there is one dessert that has become synonymous with Scandinavian cuisine and that is marzipan. Often associated with Christmas and Easter, marzipan has been a beloved sweet treat in Denmark for centuries.
Marzipan is a confection made from ground almonds, sugar, and egg whites. It has a slightly grainy texture and can be shaped into various forms, making it a popular decoration for cakes and candies. In Denmark, marzipan is often molded into miniature fruits, animals, and holiday shapes, and is commonly used in bakery items such as pastries and cookies.
The origins of marzipan can be traced back to the Middle East, but it was introduced to Europe during the Crusades. The almond-based confection quickly became popular, and by the 16th century, marzipan had found its way to Denmark. It became an instant hit, and its popularity has only continued to grow over the centuries.
If you’re looking to make your own homemade marzipan, it’s important to source the highest quality almonds you can find. In Denmark, the best almonds come from Valencia, Spain, where the warm, sunny climate produces rich, flavorful almonds. To make marzipan, you will need blanched almonds, powdered sugar, and egg whites. You can also add a few drops of almond extract to enhance the flavor.
To start, pulse the blanched almonds in a food processor until they are finely ground. Make sure not to over-process, as the almonds may release their oils, causing the mixture to become oily. Next, add the powdered sugar and pulse again until the mixture is well combined. Finally, add the egg whites and pulse until the mixture forms a thick paste.
Once you’ve made the marzipan, you can shape it into various forms. Traditionally, marzipan is shaped into miniature fruits, such as apples, cherries, and oranges. You can also use cookie cutters or silicone molds to create different shapes. Marzipan is commonly used to decorate cakes and pastries, but it can also be enjoyed on its own as a sweet snack.
In Denmark, marzipan is often associated with Christmas and Easter. During the holiday season, bakeries throughout the country sell marzipan treats, such as marzipan pigs and almond crowns. These treats have become a beloved tradition in Denmark, and are enjoyed by both young and old alike.
Overall, marzipan is a sweet and delicious treat that has become an integral part of Danish cuisine. Whether you’re making it from scratch or enjoying it on a pastry, marzipan is a versatile and beloved sweet that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
- 200 grams of blanched almonds
- 200 grams of powdered sugar
- 1 egg white
- 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract
- A few drops of rosewater (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Spread the almonds on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for around 10 minutes, or until they are light golden brown.
- Let the almonds cool for a few minutes, then transfer them to a food processor.
- Add the powdered sugar to the food processor and process the mixture until the almonds are finely ground and the sugar is well incorporated.
- Add the egg white, almond extract, and rosewater (if using) to the almond mixture and process it until it forms a thick, smooth paste.
- Transfer the marzipan to a clean work surface and knead it with your hands for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
- Wrap the marzipan in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least an hour before using.
- Use the marzipan to make decorative shapes or roll it out into thin sheets to use in pastries or cakes. Enjoy!