National Marzipan Day

National Marzipan Day is a sweet American holiday dedicated to marzipan, every year on January 12th. This delicacy, in its simplest form, is a mixture of almond flour and powdered sugar or syrup, often prepared with honey. In modern variations, marzipan can be found with different glazes, such as lemon or chocolate.

History

The taste of marzipan is unmistakable, successfully combining sweet honey and almond notes with a pleasant elastic texture that enhances its flavor. While the exact origins of National Marzipan Day are unclear, the day celebrates this delicious and natural sweetness whose origin is still widely debated.

Most researchers agree that marzipan was invented in Persia. It reached Europe via merchants from Turkey, who often carried this sweet treat with them.

In the US, marzipan is prepared by first crushing, blanching, and turning almonds into almond paste, which contains about 30% sugar or more. The next step is roasting followed by cooling. Finally, sugar and a binder (such as corn syrup) are added to give the marzipan its elastic texture.

Interesting facts

• In the Middle Ages, marzipan was considered a medicine. This idea was actively promoted by the French physician Arnaldus de Villa Nova, who lived at the end of the 13th century.
• Marzipan was considered a status delicacy, often given to emperors and upper-class individuals and served to foreign guests.
• In Western European countries, marzipan is considered a Christmas sweet and is a must-have on the festive table.

How to celebrate

Gather with family or friends and enjoy this sweet treat on National Marzipan Day. If you enjoy cooking, study a recipe for homemade marzipan and prepare the delicacy yourself. Create marzipan figurines to make a sweet composition and use food coloring to add vibrant colors to your treat!

Share information about the holiday on social media, tell interesting facts about marzipan, and discuss the best ways to make this sweet treat at home on culinary forums.

When is National Marzipan Day in 2025?

National Marzipan Day is observed on January 12 each year.

Observations