In brief
- Choose marzipan by almond content: it determines taste, fineness and price.
- For figurines, a high content (shape-holding); for fillings, a lower one is enough.
- Watch the texture, format (block, loaf, made-to-measure) and shelf life.
- FSSC 22000 certification and traceability are a must for professional use.
- Buying directly from the manufacturer gives you customisation and consistent quality.
Buying marzipan for professional use is a different matter from a small block at the supermarket. Almond content, texture, format, certification: every detail counts for your end result. At Silly, a Belgian manufacturer since 1988, we set out what you should look for before you order.
First determine your use
The right marzipan depends entirely on what you do with it. Figurines and decoration call for a fine, shape-holding marzipan with a high almond content; fillings and large runs can work with a lower content.
So don't start with the price, but with the application. Unsure about almond paste versus marzipan? First read our article « Almond paste or marzipan ».
Recommandation — Don't start with the price but with the application: figurines call for a shape-holding marzipan with a high almond content, fillings can work with a lower one.
Watch the almond content
Almond content is the most important choice: it determines taste, fineness, shape retention and price. Silly offers five qualities:
| Almond content | Profile | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| 22–30 % | Sweeter, economical | Fillings, large runs, promotional offers |
| 33–40 % | Balanced | Bars, chocolate-coated, everyday pastry |
| 50 % | Fine, very aromatic | Shape-holding figurines, premium creations |
As a manufacturer, Silly can also tailor the content to measure to your specifications.
Check texture, format and shelf life
Ask about the texture (fine and supple, with no greasy film), the available format (block, loaf, bar, or made-to-measure) and the shelf life. Good marzipan keeps for months if stored airtight and cool.
For smooth production, packaging matters too: easy-to-handle units, clear lot and shelf-life information, and formats that suit your volume.
Choose certification and traceability
For professional use, FSSC 22000 is a strong guarantee: it shows that the entire process is controlled and traceable. Also ask about allergen management and sustainability labels (such as Rainforest Alliance).
These guarantees protect your customers and your reputation, and are often contractually required by larger buyers.
Buying from a manufacturer or a distributor?
Buying directly from a manufacturer offers two major advantages: consistent quality (one controlled process) and customisation (almond content, texture, format). A distributor sources from varying suppliers and can rarely offer this.
Silly has made marzipan in Brussels (Jette) since 1988 and supplies directly to bakers, pastry chefs, chocolatiers, large-scale users and industry. Request a sample or quote via the contact page.
À retenir — Buying directly from a manufacturer offers two advantages a distributor rarely provides: consistent quality (one controlled process) and customisation in content, texture and format.
Frequently asked questions about buying marzipan
Which almond content should I choose for figurines?
For figurines and decorations that must hold their shape, choose a high almond content (40–50 %). This gives a fine, shape-holding and aromatic marzipan.
Which marzipan should I use for fillings?
For fillings and large runs, a lower almond content (22–33 %) is often enough: more economical and sweeter, while the quality is more than adequate for that use.
Why buy directly from a manufacturer?
A manufacturer offers consistent quality (one controlled process) and customisation in almond content, texture and format. A distributor sources from varying suppliers and can rarely guarantee this.
How long does professional marzipan keep?
Packed airtight and stored cool and dry (12–18 °C), marzipan keeps for several months. Protect it from air (drying out) and moisture (sugar crystallisation).
Does Silly supply made-to-measure marzipan?
Yes. As a manufacturer, Silly adapts the almond content (22–50 %), texture and format to your specifications, something a classic reseller can rarely do.
How do I request a sample?
Via the contact page of Silly Belgium you can request a sample or quote and test the marzipan in your own recipe before you decide.
Sources
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Silly Belgium has been making marzipan, brésilienne, nougatine and ground almonds in Brussels since 1988. Request a sample or a tailored quote.
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