Ingredients

• 2 cups - granulated sugar
• 4 cups - ground almonds (or almond meal)
• 2 - egg whites
• Powdered sugar for dusting

How to Make Marzipan

• Place the sugar and 2/3 cup water in a large heavy saucepan and heat gently, stirring, until the sugar dissolves.
• Uncover and boil until the temperature reaches soft-ball stage, 240 degrees on a candy thermometer.
• Place the bottom of the saucepan in the cold water you have prepared, stirring the sugar mixture constantly until it becomes thick and creamy.
• Stir in the ground almonds and the egg whites, and place it back over low heat.
• Stir for 2 minutes more until the mixture is thick.
• Spoon the marzipan onto your prepared work surface, and turn it with a metal spatula until it cools down enough to touch.
• Coat your hands in powdered sugar and begin to knead the marzipan, working it until it is smooth and pliant.
• Marzipan can now be used immediately or stored, wrapped in plastic wrap, in an airtight container.