The main reason why people look for marzipan alternatives is because of allergy to nuts and it makes sense too since marzipan is made up of as much as 12% almond content by weight. In some of the marzipan confectionery, even rosewater is added and some people might be allergic to that as well. A third reason to go for marzipan alternatives can be because the almonds are too costly to be used in the day-to-day life.

1) PERSIPAN: This is a less expensive alternative to marzipan simple because it is made up of less expensive products like apricot or peach kernels, instead of almonds. Therefore, persipan is similar to marzipan, yet not as expensive.

2) CASHEW MARZIPAN: Cashews make for a natural substitute to almonds, specially if allergy, and not the cost, is the real reason you are looking for marzipan alternatives. Cashew marzipan is made with cashews, sugar and egg whites. You can also think of adding some vanilla flavor to it to give it a nice fragrance.

3) MAPLE CANDY: Made from maple sap, the maple sugar candy marzipan is equally a delicacy like the original marzipan and since it comes with the consistency of a pasty, it can easily be used as a crumbled filling or topping. Moreover, the Maple marzipan is also nutritious because it contains manganese and zinc.

4) HALVAH: Similar in color to marzipan, the halvah also boasts of a strong nutty flavor, which makes it somewhat similar to the original treat. Made out of sesame seeds, Halvah is actually devoid of any nuts, therefore, ideal for those who are allergic to nuts.

5) ALMOND PASTE: With much less quantity of sugar than the original marzipan, this alternative suits best those who don’t have much of a sweet tooth. In fact, if you prepare the almond paste at home, you could even end up controlling the quantity of sugar as per individual requirements.

6) FLAVORED MARZIPAN: For those looking for a totally nut-free marzipan alternative, there is a recipe called flavored marzipan, which makes use of, among other things, fruit flavors. This flavored marzipan is as much fun to work with as the original marzipan and there is a range of flavors to choose from – cocoa, cherry, mint, even rose water. (Photo courtesy: google images)