Creating Marzipan Wedding Figures: A Step-By-Step Guide

Marzipan is a type of almond paste that can be used in a variety of ways, from covering cakes to creating intricate figures. Making marzipan figures is a fun and creative process that can be used to decorate cakes, especially wedding cakes, or simply enjoyed as a sweet treat. With its soft and malleable texture, marzipan is a forgiving material to work with, making it easy to correct mistakes and add intricate details.

To make marzipan figures, start by kneading and colouring the marzipan to your desired shade. Then, create the legs by rolling the marzipan into a sausage shape, flattening both ends, and folding it in half. Be sure to make the feet big enough to support the figure. Set the legs aside to dry while you work on the body, which can be made in a similar way, adding details like shirt buttons and pockets. For the arms, create two separate ropes of marzipan, remembering to sculpt little hands at the ends.

The head may be the trickiest part, especially when it comes to adding facial features. Roll the marzipan into a ball and sculpt it into the desired shape, using a modelling tool or a toothpick to create the face. Joining the parts together can be done by using dry spaghetti or cooled boiled water. Finally, let your marzipan model set before placing it on your cake.

Choosing the right marzipan

Type of Marzipan

There are two main types of marzipan: almond paste and rolled marzipan. Almond paste is typically coarser and has a higher concentration of almonds, making it difficult to roll out and shape. Rolled marzipan, on the other hand, usually has added sugar syrup, water, or other ingredients that make it more pliable and easier to work with. For creating wedding figures, rolled marzipan is a better choice as it can be easily shaped and manipulated without cracking.

Almond to Sugar Ratio

The ideal almond to sugar ratio for rolled marzipan is around 50% almonds to 50% sugar by weight. However, you can adjust this ratio slightly to suit your taste preferences. Increasing the percentage of almonds will result in a less sweet marzipan, while using more sugar will make it sweeter. Experiment with different ratios to find the perfect balance for your wedding figures.

Ingredients and Flavourings

When choosing marzipan, consider the ingredients and flavourings used. Some marzipan may contain added preservatives, artificial flavours, or fillers, which can affect the taste and texture. Look for marzipan with minimal added ingredients, as this will allow you to control the flavour and quality better. You can also add your own flavourings, such as almond extract, lemon extract, or cocoa powder, to enhance the taste of your marzipan.

Texture and Workability

The texture and workability of the marzipan are crucial factors to consider. You want to choose a marzipan that is smooth and pliable, as this will make it easier to shape and mould into your desired figures. Avoid marzipan that is too dry and crumbly, as it will be difficult to work with and may not hold its shape. Look for a product that is soft and slightly sticky, as this will give you the flexibility you need to create intricate details.

Freshness and Storage

Always check the freshness of the marzipan before purchasing. Marzipan can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks or frozen for longer periods. Choose a product that has a long shelf life, especially if you plan to make your wedding figures in advance. Additionally, consider the storage conditions required for the marzipan. Some types may need to be refrigerated or frozen to maintain their freshness and texture.

Brand and Reviews

Research different brands of marzipan and read reviews from other customers to get an idea of the quality and taste. Look for brands that are known for using high-quality ingredients and producing consistent results. Reading reviews can give you insights into the flavour, texture, and workability of the marzipan, helping you make an informed decision.

Remember, the key to choosing the right marzipan for your wedding figures is to find a product that is pliable, has a good almond to sugar ratio, contains minimal added ingredients, and suits your taste preferences. By taking the time to select the best marzipan, you'll be well on your way to creating beautiful and delicious wedding figures.

Shaping the figures

Step 1: Creating the Legs

Take a lump of marzipan and knead it to make it pliable. You can add food colouring paste and knead until you achieve the desired colour. Then, roll it into a sausage shape and flatten both ends. Fold the marzipan in half so that the flattened ends, which will be the feet, are together. Ensure the feet are large enough to support the figure. Dust with icing sugar if the marzipan becomes sticky. Set the legs aside to dry while you work on the body.

Step 2: Modelling the Body

Create the body in a similar way, but be sure to add details like shirt buttons, pockets, and other unique touches to make your figure more lifelike and characterful. Be careful not to make the body too big in comparison to the legs, or your figure may topple over.

Step 3: Forming the Arms

For the arms, create two separate ropes of marzipan, making sure to sculpt little hands at the ends.

Step 4: Sculpting the Head

This is often the trickiest part, especially when adding facial details. Roll the marzipan into a ball and then begin to shape it into the desired head shape. Use a modelling tool or a simple toothpick to create the face. Remember, if you make a mistake, you can always smooth the marzipan over and try again.

Step 5: Assembling the Figure

There are two methods for joining the parts together. One way is to use small sections of dry spaghetti as skewers. This creates a solid join, but remember to warn anyone eating the marzipan to slide the parts off first. The other method is to use cooled boiled water; simply apply a coat to the surfaces of the parts and press them together.

Step 6: Finalising the Figure

Allow your marzipan figure to set before placing it on your cake. With patience and practice, you'll be creating cute and tasty toppers for any occasion!

Joining the parts

It's important to reinforce the connection between the body and the head with a toothpick to ensure the head doesn't roll off. Be sure to inform the couple about the toothpick before they eat the topper.

Painting the details

If you want to add a little colour to your marzipan before sculpting, you can knead in some food colouring paste. You can also use petal dust to add highlights and make your figures look more realistic.

If you want to add a little sparkle to your figures, you can use shimmery white eyeshadow to paint details such as the bride's dress.

Setting and storing

Once you have created your marzipan wedding figures, you will need to let them set. You can do this by leaving them uncovered at room temperature for 24 hours. After this, they can be stored longer, lightly covered at room temperature. Marzipan figures can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for several days, up to a week. They are at their best during the first couple of days after making them.

If you have made your figures in advance, you can wrap them in plastic and seal them in a ziplock bag. They will keep in the fridge for six weeks or can be frozen for six months or more.

Marzipan is a great medium for creating figures to decorate the top of your cake. It is quite a forgiving material to work with, as it is very malleable, so it is easy to correct any mistakes as you go.

Frequently asked questions