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Recipes

Spanish recipe dessert: panellets – A traditional marzipan treat

/ by Omar Allibhoy

⭐ Rating: 4.8/5 (based on home cooking experiences)

👨‍🍳 By Chef Omar Allibhoy

🕒 Prep Time: 45 minutes

🍳 Cook Time: 15 minutes

⏰ Total Time: 1 hour

🥘 Servings: 24 pieces

📊 Difficulty Level: Medium

As a Spanish chef passionate about sharing authentic recipes, I’m thrilled to present this Spanish recipe dessert: Panellets. These cherished marzipan cookies represent the heart of Spanish sweet-making tradition. When autumn arrives, kitchens across Spain come alive with the aroma of these delicate treats. Through this Spanish recipe dessert, I’ll show you how to create these magical little morsels that have been part of our culinary heritage for generations.

What are panellets?

This Spanish recipe dessert: Panellets (meaning ‘little breads’ in Catalan) represents one of Spain’s most treasured sweet traditions. These small marzipan-based cookies combine the richness of ground almonds with sweet potato, creating a unique texture and flavor that’s particularly celebrated during All Saints’ Day but enjoyed year-round in Spanish homes.

Ingredients for Spanish Recipe Dessert: Panellets

  • 500g finely ground almonds

  • 500g sugar

  • 200g mashed potato (for authentic texture)

  • 2 medium eggs

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • 200g pine nuts (for traditional coating)

  • 100g cocoa powder (for variation)

  • Extra egg for glazing

Step-by-Step Preparation

Create the base mixture

  1. Combine ground almonds and sugar in a large bowl

  2. Mix in mashed potato until well incorporated

  3. Add one beaten egg and lemon zest, mixing until smooth

Shape and coat

  •  Form small balls (approximately 20g each)

  • Roll in pine nuts for traditional style

  • Brush with beaten egg for golden finish

Baking your panellets

  • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)

  • Arrange on lined baking tray

  • Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden

Professional chef tips for perfect panellets

  • Use room temperature ingredients for optimal binding

  • Allow shaped panellets to rest for 1 hour before baking

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days

  • For authentic results, grind your own almonds just before use

Serving your spanish recipe dessert

These traditional Panellets pair beautifully with:

  • Sweet Spanish dessert wine

  • Traditional Spanish hot chocolate

  • Afternoon coffee or tea

  • Special occasions and family gatherings

Preserving Tradition

This Spanish recipe dessert: Panellets isn’t just about creating sweet treats; it’s about preserving a piece of Spanish culinary heritage. Each batch you make connects you to generations of Spanish bakers who have crafted these delightful cookies with love and care.

Whether you’re celebrating All Saints’ Day or simply wanting to experience authentic Spanish dessert making, these Panellets will bring a touch of Spanish sweetness to your table.

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