National Marzipan Day | January 12th 2023

National Marzipan Day is a festive national holiday celebrated on January 12th by many countries around the world. It is an occasion to appreciate and enjoy the delicious sweet treat of marzipan.

If you’ve never heard of this holiday or are wondering exactly how it’s celebrated, here’s a quick guide.

⬇️ Table of Contents

History of Marzipan
How To Observe National Marzipan Day
Exploring Different Ways to Enjoy Marzipan
Recipes Using Marzipan

Marzipan and fresh almond on cutting board

History of Marzipan

History of national Marzipan, also known as almond paste, made from ground almonds (almond meal), sugar, glucose syrup, and other special ingredients.

The origin of marzipan can be traced back to ancient Persia, around the 2nd century BC.

From there, it quickly spread to Germany, France, Spain, and many other countries. In the 18th century, it became popular in England and France, where marzipan was used to decorate cakes and pastries.

How To Observe National Marzipan Day

On National Marzipan Day, you can enjoy marzipan by baking or purchasing some type of confection made with marzipan. If you are feeling creative, you could also make your own marzipan from scratch from raw almonds. It is possible to use almond flour.

There are several ways that you can celebrate National Marzipan Day! Here are just a few ideas:

Bake your marzipan treats, such as cakes, cookies, or macarons.
Make your marzipan sculptures and figures—this is a great activity for kids!
Visit your local bakery or candy store to purchase some marzipan-based treats.
Check out recipes for traditional European dishes that use marzipan, such as Kransekake or Spanische Windtorte.
Try out different flavors of marzipan, such as rosewater, chocolate, or fruit-flavored varieties.
Share photos of your favorite marzipan dishes and creations on social media using the hashtag #NationalMarzipanDay

Exploring Different Ways to Enjoy Marzipan

Marzipan is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in many ways that can now be found in grocery stores. It can be eaten as it is, used to decorate cakes or pastries, or even made into chocolates and candy bars.

Marzipan can also be dyed in different colors or pressed into molds to create shapes like animals, fruits, and flowers.

Recipes Using Marzipan

Here are some of our favorite recipes using premade marzipan, almond oil, or almond extract, even from fresh almond meal.

From adding food coloring to corn syrup for added sweetness, your marzipan creations are sure to be a party hit.

Marzipan Macarons
Chocolate-Covered Marzipan Strawberries
Marzipan Cake
Baked Marzipan Apples
Marzipan Muffins
Stuffed Dates with Marzipan and Almonds
Marzipan Truffles
Marzipan Crepes
Almond-Cranberry Marzipan Tartlets
Marzipan Coconut Squares
Chocolate and Marzipan Fudge

How Do You Store Marzipan?

Marzipan should be stored in a cool, dry place and can last up to six months if properly sealed. It can also be stored in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life.

Summary

National Marzipan Day is a special day that celebrates the centuries-old sweet confection made of ground almonds, almond meal, or almond paste and sugar.

This day serves as an opportunity to learn about the history and tradition of marzipan, explore different ways to enjoy it, and share your creations with others!