Watch video video - How to cook

You either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Flash Player installed. Please turn JavaScript on or update your Flash Player.

Marzipanning a cake

How to cover a cake with marzipan.

Points to remember

Boil the apricot jam with a splash of water, then strain out any lumps using a sieve.
Brush the the plate or cake board where you want to place the cake. This will help it stick.
Level the top of the cake if necessary. Turn it over and stick down. This will give you a flat surface to decorate.
Use a piece of string to measure the top and sides of the cake. Cut the string. You'll then know how big to roll out the marzipan.
Brush the cake with jam so the marzipan will stick.
Roll out the marzipan slightly wider than the string - this makes it easier to mould onto the cake.
Use the rolling pin to lift the marzipan. Lift over the cake and carefully unroll.
Ease down the sides, smooth the surface and trim the base.

Useful tips

If you use a cake recipe that's specifically designed for decorating as well as the correct tin size, the cake will ideally be level and won't need trimming. However as baking has many variables including slightly different oven temperatures, don't worry if yours doesn't behave!

Fruit cake recipes

Your binder

Please enter your email address below and we will send the relevant information to you.

Your binder

Here are three other great reasons to sign up:

You get an online binder, where you can store all your favourite recipes and create menus.
You can add your own recipes to this site for others to try; plus, rate and make comments on recipes, and share your views on our blog.
You can sign up for our weekly newsletter (sent out on Wednesdays) - it's packed with recipes, special offers and competitions.