Almond paste is a common ingredient in many traditional Italian dishes, especially some of the best typical products of Sicily. It’s incredibly versatile but often overlooked by chefs across the globe.
We’re here to help you understand what it is and how many uses for almond paste there are!
If you’re wondering what is almond paste, it’s made from almonds, sugar, almond extract and corn syrup or glucose. That’s it: the ingredients in almond paste are very simple. You can make it yourself or purchase it at your local store.However, if you opt to buy it check the label first. Different manufacturers will change the amount of nuts and sugar in the mixture. This will affect the flavor and how your final product tastes.
What Is Almond Paste Used For
One of almond paste uses includes a filling for a variety of pastries, such as Bear Claws (a firm favorite in the US) and all forms of Italian pastries.It has multiple uses around the globe. In Italy, we’re particularly fond of using it to make pignoli. That’s chewy cookies covered in pine nuts. It’s also in our Amarena cookies, well worth trying!In France, another one of almond paste uses include a filling in croissants - that’s very popular - and inside the Galette des Rois, an annual speciality.
Sweden is passionate about almond paste: they use it in biscuits, muffins and buns. It’s also an important ingredient in Shrove Tuesday semla.Of course, you’ve probably already tasted it the way the Finnish like it, as a filling in chocolates.
Almond Paste vs Marzipan
It should be noted that, while almond paste may seem similar to marzipan, they are different. For example, if considering almond paste vs marzipan, it depends on your goal. The ingredients in almond paste are coarser than marzipan. The result is marzipan is sweeter.In addition, almond paste is also used as an ingredient in pastries or as a filling for sweet treats. Marzipan has a more solid form and is used on cakes and to create shapes.
You can eat marzipan by itself, the same is not true for almond paste. However, almond paste is the main ingredient in marzipan!
Storing Almond Paste
Thanks to almond paste ingredients and the careful preparation by experts, it will last for a long time in your cupboard. However, it’s a paste and, once the packet has been opened, it will start to lose its moisture. That will damage the flavor and consistency.To make sure this isn’t an issue, the best option is to wrap the paste up and then put it in an airtight container before storing it in a refrigerator. This will keep it fresh and usable for weeks. Your challenge will be to avoid using it for that long!
It’s also possible to freeze almond paste. This will allow it to keep for months.
A Little History
Although almond paste is associated with Italy, it’s actually believed to have originated as long ago as the 3rd century BC! There are references to it being transported from Arab countries to Sicily. They were responsible for an array of other spicy exotic dishes coming to the West.Of course, the Arabs didn’t bring it to Sicily until the 11th century, for many years it was simply an Indian/Persian secret.
Summing Up
Now you know what is almond paste and that there are many uses for almond paste. More importantly, you know how important it is in traditional Sicilian cooking and how you can purchase authentic products directly from us.
Don’t delay, order today and scintillate your taste buds!
FAQs
If you're wondering what is almond paste, it's made from almonds, sugar, almond extract and corn syrup or glucose. That's it: the ingredients in almond paste are very simple. You can make it yourself or purchase it at your local store. However, if you opt to buy it check the label first.
What does almond paste do? ›
Almond paste is a flavorful spread made from ground blanched almonds, sugar, and egg whites. The sweet paste appears in a variety of baked goods, whether folded into pastries and almond cakes as almond cream; breakfast fare like bear claws, almond croissants, and waffles; or enjoyed on its own as marzipan candy.
Should almond paste be refrigerated? ›
Commercially produced almond paste has a long shelf life. However, to keep it from drying out, once opened it should be tightly wrapped and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.
What is the history of almond paste? ›
Some date the first almond paste ever existed around the end of 1100, placing it in the Martorana convent of Palermo, annexed to the church of Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio; according to their reading, the name “real” would have been born precisely because of its goodness, implying that it was a delicacy “worthy of a ...
How do you store almond paste after opening? ›
What is the best way to store my opened Almond Paste or Marzipan? A. Wrap any remaining Almond Paste or Marzipan tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a sealable plastic bag. You can then refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks, or freeze it up to 3 months.
Can you eat almond paste by itself? ›
Marzipan has a more solid form and is used on cakes and to create shapes. You can eat marzipan by itself, the same is not true for almond paste.
Can you eat almond paste raw? ›
Don't worry about the raw egg white; the paste will be used in baking, not eaten raw. Almond Extract: For even more almond flavor, be sure to add almond extract to the paste.
What is another name for almond paste? ›
It can be confusing that recipes sometimes use the terms "almond paste" and "marzipan" interchangeably, as they're actually quite different. Almond paste has a coarser texture but is much softer than marzipan, which allows it to be spread as a filling.
Why is almond paste bitter? ›
This bitter taste comes from amygdalin, a chemical compound within the nut that defends the nut from being eaten in the wild.
Is it OK to freeze almond paste? ›
You can, also, store the extra almond paste in the freezer. It will last even longer when frozen. Get your paste ready to go. Tomorrow's cookies are to die for!
So the finely grated almond paste essentially breaks down, softens, "melts" during baking and becomes the centerpiece - making a gloriously melty, almond filling for your buns.
How do you make almond paste softer? ›
Occasionally I end up with a sugar or almond paste "rock." In lieu of tossing it, I have softened it by adding a piece of bread for a day or two, in an airtight container. The moisture in the bread returns the original texture of the item.
Is almond paste good for your hair? ›
Consuming almonds or applying its paste will provide your roots with nourishing oils and increase blood circulation in the scalp, thereby promoting hair growth and shine. Pro tip: Eat 4-5 soaked almonds every morning or topically apply its paste on the scalp.
What happens if we apply almond paste on face? ›
Almonds have been used for centuries to improve skin health. It is not only a natural cleanser, but it also exfoliates your skin, removing dead skin cells, grime, and oil. Rub your face with almond paste to boost blood circulation and get glowing skin.
What's the difference between almond filling and almond paste? ›
The almond paste and almond filling are very different products and should not be used interchangeably in a recipe. The Almond Filling is a jam-like filling for cakes, pastries, and cookies. The Almond Paste is usually mixed or cut into a recipe for an almond flavor, or as a layer in tarts and pies.
Is almond paste good for cough? ›
Almonds are a good remedy for cough. Soak about 5-8 kernels in water overnight. After removing the brown skin, grind the softened kernels into a fine paste. Add 20 grams of butter and sugar to this paste.
