MY TINY TREAT - SMALL BATCH HEALTHY RECIPES

Homemade Marzipan (Almond Paste) — A Healthier Fondant Alternative

If you’ve ever tried decorating a cake and thought, “Why is fondant basically edible plastic?” — this recipe is for you. This homemade marzipan (almond paste) is soft, pliable, naturally sweetened, and made with real ingredients you can pronounce. It rolls beautifully, holds its shape, and tastes so much better than store-bought fondant. Even better? You can color it naturally, without artificial dyes. Perfect for: Covering cakes Decorating birthday cakes Shaping little figures Rolling, cutting, and embossing

12/14/20251 min read

photo of white staircase
photo of white staircase
Why Use Marzipan Instead of Fondant?
  • Made from almonds, not corn syrup

  • Naturally gluten-free

  • Softer and more forgiving to work with

  • Actually tastes good

  • Easy to color with real food powders

This is especially great for kids’ cakes, smash cakes, and anyone trying to avoid ultra-processed decorations.

Ingredients
  • 3/4 cup almond flour

  • 9 tbsp powerded stevia or monkfruit

  • 1 1/2 tbsp water

  • 1 tsp almond extract

How to Make Homemade Marzipan
  1. Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender or food processor.

  2. Blend until the mixture comes together into a smooth, pliable dough.

    • If it looks too dry, add ½ teaspoon water at a time until it forms a soft paste.

  3. Remove and knead briefly by hand until smooth.

✨ Use immediately or wrap tightly and store in the fridge until ready to roll, shape, or color naturally with beetroot or spirulina powders.

How to Color Marzipan Naturally

Divide dough into portions and knead in natural color powders:

🌿 Green or Blue
  • Spirulina powder (start with ¼ tsp)

🌸 Pink
  • Beetroot powder (¼–½ tsp)

Add powder slowly and knead until color is even. If dough dries slightly, add a drop of water or maple syrup.

How to Use It
  • Dust surface lightly with powdered monkfruit or cornstarch

  • Roll to ⅛–¼ inch thickness

  • Drape over cakes or cut shapes with cookie cutters

  • Smooth with hands or a rolling pin

💡 Tip: If it becomes sticky, chill for 5–10 minutes. If it cracks, knead in a few drops of liquid.

Storage
  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap

  • Store at room temperature for 2 days

  • Refrigerate up to 1 week

  • Freeze up to 2 months

Let come to room temperature before rolling.

Why This Works for Kids’ Cakes

This marzipan:

  • Uses real food ingredients

  • Avoids artificial dyes

  • Is softer and easier to chew

  • Works beautifully for small cakes and mini bakes

It’s the perfect compromise between beautiful cakes and better ingredients.

💛 More healthier decorating ideas, small-batch bakes, and family-friendly recipes at:
👉 www.mytinytreat.com

If you try this recipe, I’d love to see your creations — tag them so I can cheer you on from my messy kitchen 💛