The Hairy Bikers’ Marzipan recipe is a simple yet delicious homemade almond paste that’s perfect for covering cakes, making sweets, or even as a standalone treat. This marzipan has a rich, almondy flavor and smooth texture, making it an ideal choice for adding a professional touch to Christmas cakes, fruitcakes, and other festive treats.
What is Hairy Bikers Marzipan?
Hairy Bikers’ Marzipan is a traditional almond paste made with ground almonds, powdered sugar, and eggs. It has a deliciously nutty flavor and a pliable consistency, perfect for covering cakes or making edible decorations. This recipe is quick and easy, offering a homemade alternative to store-bought marzipan with a fresher taste.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Fresh, Nutty Flavor: Homemade marzipan is more flavorful than store-bought.
- Easy and Quick: Minimal ingredients and no cooking required.
- Perfect for Cakes: Great for covering fruitcakes or decorating desserts.
- Customizable Texture: Adjust to your preferred firmness for shaping or rolling.
- Great for Holiday Baking: A must-have for Christmas cake preparation.
Ingredients Needed to Make Hairy Bikers Marzipan
- 250g Ground Almonds: The main ingredient, giving marzipan its almond flavor.
- 250g Icing Sugar (sifted): Sweetens and smooths the marzipan.
- 1 Large Egg (beaten): Helps bind the ingredients.
- 1 tsp Almond Extract: Enhances the almond flavor.
- 1 tsp Lemon Juice: Adds freshness and balances the sweetness.
Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers Marzipan
Step 1. Sift the Icing Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, sift the icing sugar to remove any lumps, then add the ground almonds and stir to combine.
Step 2. Add Almond Extract and Lemon Juice
Add the almond extract and lemon juice to the dry ingredients, stirring to distribute the flavor evenly.
Step 3. Mix in the Egg
Gradually add the beaten egg to the almond mixture, mixing until it forms a firm, pliable dough. Add the egg slowly to avoid making the marzipan too sticky; you may not need the entire egg.
Step 4. Knead the Marzipan
Dust a clean surface with a little icing sugar, then knead the marzipan lightly until smooth. Avoid over-kneading to keep the marzipan from becoming too oily.
Step 5. Wrap and Store
Form the marzipan into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge if not using immediately, as it will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
What Goes Well With Hairy Bikers Marzipan
- Fruitcake – Classic choice for a marzipan layer under fondant.
- Chocolate Coating – Dip marzipan in chocolate for a sweet treat.
- Almond Pastries – Add marzipan to croissants or Danish pastries.
- Fresh Berries – Complements marzipan’s sweetness with fresh, fruity flavors.
- Coffee or Tea – Perfect for enjoying with a slice of marzipan-topped cake.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Hairy Bikers Marzipan
To make the best marzipan, keep these tips in mind:
- Control Consistency – Add egg gradually to achieve your desired firmness.
- Dust Lightly with Icing Sugar – Prevents stickiness while kneading.
- Use Fresh Almonds – Fresh ground almonds enhance flavor and aroma.
- Refrigerate for Easy Handling – Chill before rolling or shaping for stability.
- Avoid Over-Kneading – Over-kneading can cause the marzipan to release oil, making it greasy.
Easy Variations of Hairy Bikers Marzipan
Try these variations for unique flavors:
- Orange Zest – Adds a fresh citrusy flavor, great for holiday treats.
- Add Rose Water – Swap almond extract with rose water for a floral twist.
- Make Chocolate Marzipan – Mix in cocoa powder for a chocolate version.
- Add Cinnamon – A pinch of cinnamon adds warmth and pairs well with almonds.
- Use Honey – Replace some of the sugar with honey for a more complex sweetness.
Best Practices to Store Hairy Bikers Marzipan
- Store in an Airtight Container – Keeps marzipan fresh for up to 1-2 weeks at room temperature.
- Refrigerate for Longer Storage – Marzipan can last up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
- Freeze for Up to 3 Months – Wrap well and freeze, thawing at room temperature before use.
Best Practices to Use Hairy Bikers Marzipan on Cakes
- Brush Cake with Jam – Use a thin layer of apricot jam to help the marzipan adhere.
- Roll Evenly – Roll marzipan out to a consistent thickness for a smooth finish.
- Allow to Set – After applying marzipan, let it set for a day before adding fondant.
- Use a Smooth Surface – Roll on a lightly dusted, smooth surface to prevent sticking.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 110
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 16g
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Hairy Bikers Marzipan
- Prep Time: 15
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 500g of marzipan 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: European
Description
Hairy Bikers’ Marzipan is a traditional almond paste made with ground almonds, powdered sugar, and eggs. It has a deliciously nutty flavor and a pliable consistency, perfect for covering cakes or making edible decorations. This recipe is quick and easy, offering a homemade alternative to store-bought marzipan with a fresher taste.
Ingredients
- 250g Ground Almonds: The main ingredient, giving marzipan its almond flavor.
- 250g Icing Sugar (sifted): Sweetens and smooths the marzipan.
- 1 Large Egg (beaten): Helps bind the ingredients.
- 1 tsp Almond Extract: Enhances the almond flavor.
- 1 tsp Lemon Juice: Adds freshness and balances the sweetness.
Instructions
Step 1. Sift the Icing Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, sift the icing sugar to remove any lumps, then add the ground almonds and stir to combine.
Step 2. Add Almond Extract and Lemon Juice
Add the almond extract and lemon juice to the dry ingredients, stirring to distribute the flavor evenly.
Step 3. Mix in the Egg
Gradually add the beaten egg to the almond mixture, mixing until it forms a firm, pliable dough. Add the egg slowly to avoid making the marzipan too sticky; you may not need the entire egg.
Step 4. Knead the Marzipan
Dust a clean surface with a little icing sugar, then knead the marzipan lightly until smooth. Avoid over-kneading to keep the marzipan from becoming too oily.
Step 5. Wrap and Store
Form the marzipan into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge if not using immediately, as it will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
