Frutta Martorana

Ingredients

Almond meal

2 cups

Granulated sugar

1 cup

Water

1/2 cup

Almond extract

1 teaspoon

Food coloring

various colors

Icing sugar

for dusting

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond meal and granulated sugar until well mixed.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Carefully pour the boiling water over the almond meal and sugar mixture. Stir quickly until a thick paste forms.
3. Add the almond extract to the mixture and use your hands to knead the dough until it is smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small portions, depending on the number of different fruits and vegetables you wish to create.
5. Shape each portion into the desired fruit or vegetable form, using your hands for smaller shapes or molds for more intricate designs.
6. Once shaped, use food coloring to paint the marzipan fruits and vegetables, creating realistic details.
7. Allow the shaped Frutta Martorana to dry at room temperature for several hours or until firm.
8. Before serving, dust the marzipan creations lightly with icing sugar to enhance their appearance.