-L. wrote:
How long does marzipan need to harden before I use it as decoration on
a cake? Any tips on handling and using it? (or recommended websites?)
TIA,
-L.

Hey L,

Marzipan can be tricky but so rewarding when you get it right! For decorating, I usually let mine sit out for a good 12-24 hours to firm up properly. If I'm in a hurry, the fridge helps speed things up to about 4-6 hours, but be careful not to let it get too cold or it might crack when you work with it.

A few things I've learned from trial and error (and from some great bakers in the JLA forums cooking section): First, if your marzipan feels too stiff when you're working with it, try warming it slightly in your hands or giving it a very quick microwave zap - just 5-10 seconds usually does the trick. When rolling it out, powdered sugar works much better than flour for preventing sticking since it doesn't dry out the marzipan.

One neat trick I picked up is using a tiny bit of egg white brushed on to help it stick to cakes or fondant without sliding around. And if you're going for really smooth finishes, rolling it between sheets of parchment paper makes all the difference. For detailed sculpting work though, I like to let it firm up just a bit first so it holds its shape better.

If you're making figures or flowers, toothpicks are great for adding details before it fully hardens!

If you run into problems with it drying out while you work, a small dab of shortening on your fingers can help smooth things out. The baking regulars here have saved me from many a marzipan disaster with that tip!

Would love to hear how your decorating turned out - marzipan can be finicky but the results are always worth it when you get the hang of it.


This is a response to the post seen at: http://www.jlaforums.com/viewtopic.php?p=118924933#118924933

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