Get ready to indulge your sweet tooth with these 20 decadent recipes that showcase the rich, almond-like flavor and versatility of marzipan. From classic treats like tart and cookies to innovative twists on traditional desserts, we’ve gathered a collection of mouthwatering ideas that will satisfy any marzipan craving.
Marzipan, made from equal parts ground almonds and sugar, has been a beloved ingredient in many cultures for centuries. When used in baked goods, it adds a unique texture and flavor dimension that’s both elegant and indulgent. Whether you’re looking to impress your friends with a show-stopping dessert or simply want to treat yourself to something special, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
In this article, we’ll explore the many ways marzipan can elevate your baking game. From classic combinations like chocolate and raspberry to unique pairings like nutella and coconut, you’ll find inspiration for any occasion. So go ahead, get creative, and let the sweet magic of marzipan begin!
Marzipan-Stuffed Chocolate Cookies
These rich and chewy cookies are elevated by the surprise of a sweet marzipan center, perfectly balanced with dark chocolate chips. Perfect for a special treat or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup marzipan, crumbled
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in vanilla extract.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Roll dough into balls, about 1-inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
7. Flatten each ball slightly and place a small piece of marzipan in center.
8. Fold dough over marzipan to seal. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Classic Marzipan Almond Tart
This traditional French tart is a masterpiece of simplicity and elegance, featuring a delicate marzipan filling atop a buttery almond crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) ground almonds
– 1/4 cup (50g) confectioner’s sugar
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons marzipan paste
– Confectioner’s sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground almonds, confectioner’s sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbs form.
4. Press mixture into a 9-inch (23cm) tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow the crust to cool completely.
7. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream and marzipan paste until smooth.
8. Pour filling over cooled crust and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until filling is set.
9. Dust with confectioner’s sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Marzipan and Raspberry Danish Pastries
These flaky, buttery pastries are filled with a sweet and tangy marzipan and raspberry filling, perfect for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup ground almonds (marzipan)
– 1/4 cup raspberry jam
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread a thin layer of marzipan mixture (confectioners’ sugar and ground almonds) onto the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Spoon raspberry jam over the marzipan, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Place pastries on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
German Marzipan Kartoffeln (Potato-Shaped Candies)
A traditional German treat that’s perfect for a sweet surprise. These potato-shaped candies are made with marzipan and coated in a layer of white chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup marzipan
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– White chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate (about 1 ounce)
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Knead the marzipan until it becomes pliable and easy to shape.
2. Roll out the marzipan into a long rope, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Cut the rope into small pieces, each about 1-2 inches long.
4. Shape each piece into a potato shape by gently pulling and molding the marzipan.
5. Melt the white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Dip each potato-shaped candy into the melted white chocolate, coating completely.
7. Place the coated candies on a piece of parchment paper and dust with confectioner’s sugar.
Cooking Time: None required
Marzipan-Filled Croissants
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with these buttery, flaky croissants filled with a sweet and nutty marzipan surprise. This recipe combines the classic French pastry with the warmth of almond-based filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm milk
– 1/4 cup active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup marzipan (almond paste)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, melted butter, and sugar to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Cut into triangles and roll each into a croissant shape, placing a small piece of marzipan in the center.
6. Brush with egg wash and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon and Marzipan Loaf Cake
This moist and flavorful loaf cake combines the sweetness of marzipan with the brightness of lemon zest, perfect for a springtime dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup marzipan, crumbled
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until smooth. Add lemon zest and juice; mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in crumbled marzipan.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Marzipan-Topped Apple Pie
This classic apple pie gets a creative boost from a sweet and sticky marzipan topping, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture to the traditional recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4-6 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup marzipan (almond paste)
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and cold butter; use pastry blender or fingers to work into crumbs.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, trimming excess crust.
4. Arrange apple slices in the crust.
5. Mix marzipan with honey and vanilla extract; spread evenly over apples.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cherry and Marzipan Crumble Bars
Cherry and Marzipan Crumble Bars: A Sweet and Tangy Treat
These bite-sized bars combine the sweetness of marzipan with the tartness of cherries, topped with a crunchy crumble topping. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup marzipan
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 1/2 cup cherry preserves
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine marzipan, granulated sugar, and flour. Mix until smooth.
3. Press the marzipan mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Top with cherry preserves, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. In a small bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and chopped pecans (if using). Add melted butter and stir until crumbly.
6. Spread the crumble topping evenly over the cherry preserves.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Nutella and Marzipan Swirl Bread
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this unique bread recipe that combines the rich flavors of Nutella and marzipan. This indulgent treat is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup Nutella
– 1/4 cup marzipan
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar. Gradually add warm water, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Roll out the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness. Spread Nutella over half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Top with marzipan, spreading evenly.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Marzipan-Covered Chocolate Truffles
Transform ordinary chocolate truffles into extraordinary treats by coating them with a layer of sweet and nutty marzipan. This elegant dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) marzipan
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Roll the chilled truffle mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
5. In a small bowl, knead the marzipan until pliable.
6. Roll each truffle ball in the marzipan to coat evenly.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld together.
Coconut and Marzipan Macaroons
Coconut and Marzipan Macaroons: A sweet and indulgent treat that combines the tropical flavors of coconut with the nutty richness of marzipan.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup marzipan, crumbled
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, sugar, and marzipan until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the egg mixture into the coconut mixture until no white streaks remain.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown on the bottom.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Marzipan-Frosted Carrot Cake
This classic carrot cake recipe gets a sweet and nutty twist with the addition of marzipan frosting. The combination of spices, carrots, and walnuts creates a moist and flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– Marzipan frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Fold in carrots and walnuts.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Marzipan Frosting:
– 1/2 cup marzipan
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Beat together marzipan, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread over cooled cake.
Apricot and Marzipan Thumbprint Cookies
These chewy cookies are infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of apricots, paired with the richness of marzipan. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these bite-sized treats are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup apricot jam
– 2 tbsp marzipan, finely chopped
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in apricot jam and marzipan.
4. Beat in egg until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Marzipan-Stuffed French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this unique twist on classic French toast. Marzipan-stuffed French toast is a sweet and savory treat that’s perfect for special occasions or just a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 1/2 cup marzipan
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place a tablespoon of marzipan in the center of each bread slice.
5. Fold the bread over the marzipan to form a triangle or a square shape.
6. Cook the French toast for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with melted butter and maple syrup (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiced Marzipan Fig Rolls
Sweet and savory meet in these delightful treats, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup marzipan
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup fig jam
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine marzipan, confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 4 equal squares.
4. Place a tablespoon of fig jam in the center of each square. Top with a small ball of marzipan mixture.
5. Fold the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush tops with egg wash and cut a small slit in the top of each roll.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Marzipan and Dark Chocolate Brownies
Elevate your brownie game with the perfect blend of sweet marzipan and rich dark chocolate. These fudgy treats are sure to satisfy any chocolate craving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (60g) marzipan, crumbled
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and marzipan.
4. In a large bowl, combine melted chocolate, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and flour mixture. Stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted 2 inches from the edge comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey-Roasted Almond and Marzipan Tart
Sweet and savory, this Honey-Roasted Almond and Marzipan Tart is a delightful treat that combines the richness of marzipan with the crunch of roasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup (60g) marzipan, crumbled
– 1/4 cup (30g) honey
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 cup (50g) sliced almonds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3mm). Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together marzipan, honey, and thyme. Spread evenly over the center of the tart, leaving a 1-inch (2.5cm) border around the edges.
4. Roast almonds in a separate pan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes or until fragrant and lightly browned. Sprinkle over the marzipan mixture.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pistachio and Marzipan Baklava
Experience the sweet and nutty delight of this unique baklava variation, combining the crunch of pistachios with the smoothness of marzipan.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/2 cup marzipan, finely crumbled
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together pistachios, marzipan, sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
3. Layer phyllo dough in a 9×13-inch baking dish, brushing each layer with melted butter.
4. Spread the pistachio-marzipan mixture evenly over the top phyllo layer.
5. Fold the edges of the phyllo under and press gently to seal.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Orange-Blossom Marzipan Cupcakes
Brighten up your dessert table with these delightful cupcakes infused with the sweetness of orange blossom water and the richness of marzipan. These moist and flavorful treats are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons orange blossom water
– 1/2 cup marzipan, chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Add orange blossom water and mix until combined. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped marzipan.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Marzipan and Cherry Clafoutis
This classic French dessert combines the sweetness of marzipan with the tartness of cherries, resulting in a delightful and unique flavor combination. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) marzipan
– 2 cups (250g) fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1/4 cup (60ml) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine marzipan, sugar, and flour.
3. Add cherries, salt, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Pour in milk and stir until a smooth batter forms.
5. Pour the mixture into a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature, dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Indulge your sweet tooth with these decadent recipes featuring marzipan’s unique sweetness. From classic treats like Marzipan-Stuffed Chocolate Cookies and Classic Marzipan Almond Tart to innovative creations like Nutella and Marzipan Swirl Bread and Marzipan-Covered Chocolate Truffles, there’s something for every dessert lover. These mouthwatering recipes also showcase marzipan’s versatility, combining it with fruits like raspberries and apricots, nuts like almonds and pistachios, and even savory elements like figs and honey. Treat yourself to a world of sweet delights with these 20 decadent marzipan recipes!
