Almond Paste Versus Almond Filling

Almond paste and almond filling both are popular fillings for desserts and pastries. While both can be made at home, both also are available at most grocery stores.

Almond Paste

Made from ground, blanched almonds and sugar, almond paste is more similar to marzipan, a mixture of almond paste, sugar and egg whites, than to almond filling. Ground apricot or peach kernels sometimes are used as filler in almond paste to lower food costs.

Almond Filling

While almond filling is easy to make at home, it also is sold canned under several brand names, including Solo. Canned almond filling consists of corn syrup, sugar, water, almonds, evaporated whole milk and other ingredients. Homemade almond filling can be made with chopped almonds, powdered sugar, sour cream and vanilla.

Almond Paste Uses

Almond paste is used in bear claws, fruited Christmas breads and the Danish pastry "Kringle," which is a lot like a pretzel.

Almond Filling Uses

Almond filling is used in many pastries and desserts, including Danishes and nut rolls.

Availability and Storage

Both almond paste and canned almond filling are available in baking aisles in most grocery stores. Both should be refrigerated after opening.

References

• Gourmet Sleuth: Almond Paste
• Solo: Almond Filling