A Brief History of Marzipan & Our Taste Tests

Let’s talk the best marzipan!

When folks are looking for marzipan, most people are searching for either decorated marzipan candy or plain marzipan to form into shapes as cake decoration. We’ll cover both in this article.

Marzipan’s history is interesting.

Most marzipan lore puts the treat’s origins in Lubeck, Germany—at least, that’s the place where modern marzipan (which is basically sugar and almonds) emerged.

Marzipan was most likely brought to Europe by way of Persia and Turkey. 

In the 1400’s, a drought in Germany caused a shortage of wheat. Bakers came up with a substitute for wheat flour by mixing eggs, sugar and almonds—the result was marzipan. 

Blind Taste Tests

When testing treats like marzipan, we think the best approach is a blind taste test. That way folks aren’t influenced by a brand or fancy packaging.

Here are the best marzipan picks from our tests!

Why Trust Us

We’ve been rating and reviewing products for the home and families since 1994. We do extensive research, evaluating products with an eye toward quality, ease of use and affordability. When we purchase a product for hands-on testing, we do so with our own money.

Here’s another key point: we don’t take money from the brands we review. No free samples, no sponsors, no “partnerships.” Our work is 100% reader-supported!