Delia Smith Marzipan Recipe

Instructions to Make Delia Smith Marzipan

To make Delia Smith’s marzipan, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Almond Mixture

• Sift the icing sugar and caster sugar into a large mixing bowl, and stir in the ground almonds.
• This will create a fine and uniform mixture that will form the base of the marzipan.

Step 2: Heat the Egg

• In a small saucepan, gently heat the egg over a low heat, whisking constantly, until it is slightly warm and frothy.
• Do not let it boil or scramble, as this will ruin the marzipan.
• The egg will act as a binder and a moisturizer for the marzipan.

Step 3: Add the Flavourings

• Remove the saucepan from the heat, and stir in the almond extract and brandy.
• The almond extract will enhance the almond flavor of the marzipan, and the brandy will add a subtle kick and aroma.
• You can also use other liquors, such as rum, whisky, or amaretto, depending on your preference.

Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Make a well in the center of the almond mixture, and pour in the egg mixture.
• Stir the liquid into the dry ingredients, and then use your hands to bring the mixture together into a smooth dough.
• If the mixture is too dry, add a little more egg. If the mixture is too sticky, add a little more icing sugar.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

• Knead the dough on a surface lightly dusted with icing sugar, until it is smooth and pliable.
• Do not overwork the dough, as this will make the marzipan tough and rubbery.
• Kneading the dough will help to distribute the ingredients evenly and create a smooth texture.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

• Roll out the dough to the size of your cake, using a rolling pin and a cake tin or board as a guide.
• Keep turning the dough a quarter turn after each roll, to keep it round and even.
• Do not roll the dough too thin, as this will make the marzipan crack and tear. The dough should be about 5mm thick, or slightly thicker if you prefer.

Step 7: Cover the Cake

• Carefully lift the dough and place it over your cake, smoothing it down with your hands.
• Trim off any excess dough, and use it to make decorations or store it in an airtight container for later use.
• You can also color and shape the marzipan into various decorations, such as fruits, flowers, or animals.

Step 8: Enjoy or Store

• Enjoy your homemade marzipan, or store it in the fridge until you are ready to ice your cake.
• Do not refrigerate the marzipan after you have covered your cake, as this will make the marzipan sweat and lose its shape. Keep the cake in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

What Do I Serve With Delia Smith Marzipan?

Delia Smith’s Marzipan is a versatile accompaniment to various desserts:

• Cake Pairings: It’s the perfect complement to any type of cake, be it a rich fruit cake, a light sponge cake, or a decadent chocolate cake.
• Dessert Enhancements: For an indulgent treat, pair it with whipped cream, custard, or ice cream. Each of these options adds a different but equally delicious dimension to your dessert.
• Enjoy on Its Own: Alternatively, savour the marzipan as a standalone sweet treat or a delightful snack, enjoying the full flavor of this exquisite almond paste.

Pro Tips to Make Perfect Delia Smith Marzipan

Here are some pro tips to make perfect Delia Smith Marzipan:

• Sugar Choice: Opt for golden caster sugar over regular caster sugar for a deeper flavor and richer color.
• Almond Extract: Use pure almond extract rather than artificial flavorings to achieve a more authentic almond taste.
• Brandy for Flavor: Incorporate brandy instead of water to add a subtle depth and aroma. Alternatively, rum, whisky, or amaretto can be used to suit your taste preferences.
• Egg Temperature: Ensure eggs are at room temperature for optimal blending with other ingredients, preventing curdling or premature cooking.
• Egg Heating: Warm the egg gently, avoiding overheating to keep the marzipan from becoming hard and dry. Aim for a slightly warm and frothy texture.
• Dough Handling: Knead the dough just until smooth and pliable. Overworking can result in a tough, rubbery texture.
• Rolling Thickness: Roll the dough to about 5mm thickness, avoiding too thin a roll which can cause cracking.
• Preventing Drying: To keep the dough from drying out, wrap it in cling film or a damp cloth, store it in an airtight container or fridge.
• Post-Covering Care: Once the cake is covered with marzipan, avoid refrigerating to prevent sweating and shape loss. Store the cake in a cool, dry place.

Variations of Delia Smith Marzipan

Customize your marzipan with these variations:

• Chocolate Marzipan: Mix in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the almond-sugar mixture, reducing the icing sugar accordingly.
• Lemon Marzipan: Add the zest and juice of 1 lemon to the egg, reducing the brandy as needed.
• Pistachio Marzipan: Substitute half of the ground almonds with ground pistachios, adding a few drops of green food coloring.
• Rose Marzipan: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of rose water and a few drops of pink food coloring.

How do I store Delia Smith Marzipan Leftovers?

Preserve leftover marzipan effectively:

• In the Fridge: Wrap tightly in cling film or a plastic bag, storing in the fridge for up to a week.
• In the Freezer: Similarly, wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before use.
• In the Cupboard: Wrap and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat Delia Smith Marzipan Leftovers?

Reheat marzipan carefully:

• Microwave: Cut into small pieces and microwave in short bursts until soft, avoiding overheating.
• Oven: Preheat to 180°C/160°C fan/gas mark 4 and bake on a parchment-lined tray for 5-10 minutes until slightly golden.
• Steaming: Steam in a basket over simmering water for 10-15 minutes until soft and moist, without oversteaming.