Simple, elegant and perfect for gatherings, this recipe transforms ripe persimmons into beautiful little bites stuffed with homemade marzipan. A sophisticated dessert that requires almost no cooking!
What is marzipan?
Marzipan (or massepain in French) is a sweet almond paste made with equal parts ground almonds and sugar. Traditionally associated with Christmas, Saint Nicholas Day and other festivities, it’s used to make the famous marzipan fruits and sweets. Its exact origins are disputed — Middle East, Greece or Northern Europe all have claims — but it has been beloved across the world for centuries.
Ingredients (makes 8–10)
- 4–5 ripe persimmons (kakis)
- 150 g ground almonds
- 150 g icing sugar
- 1–2 tbsp rose water (or orange blossom water)
- A few drops of almond extract (optional)
Instructions
- Make the marzipan: mix the ground almonds and icing sugar together. Add the rose water a little at a time, kneading until you have a smooth, pliable paste. Taste and adjust sweetness.
- Cut the persimmons in half and scoop out a small well in each half.
- Roll small amounts of marzipan into balls or ovals. Press gently into each persimmon half.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
Enjoy! 🧡✨