Marzipan
Marzipan is a favorite European confection and similar in some respects to the previous confections in that sugar crystals are present in its structure, giving a texture similar to a fudge. The characteristic flavor and texture of ground blanched almonds are added to give the unique confection so popular in France, Germany and Switzerland.
Variables affecting the properties of fondant
The key variables which affect the properties of fondant are described below.
Moisture content
The moisture content governs its firmness: the higher the moisture content, the softer the fondant. It ranges from 10 to 15% with a norm of 12.7% and must be controlled in manufacture and in the marketplace.
Crystal size of the sugar
The size of the sugar crystals is very important to both the texture and the rheological properties of fondant. (1 tia
The human palate can detect particles above 12-15 um in size, and anything below this tastes 'smooth'. In making fondant, crystal sizes below 15 um are usually desired to give a smooth texture in the confection. However, often much coarser particle sizes are used to give a rougher 'sharper' texture which can be appropriate, for instance, in 'after-dinner" mints to help "cleanse' the palate.
Basic steps in making the confections
Fondant
Fondant is made by: