Almond paste substitutes
Almond paste substitutes — 5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Marzipan
Same amount as the almond paste
Similar sweet, nutty paste with smooth texture.
The best substitutes for almond paste are marzipan, hazelnut paste, or cashew paste.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of almond paste | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marzipanbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Hazelnut pastebaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Cashew pastebaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Pistachio pastebaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Walnut pastebaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
Marzipan
similar taste and texture
Similar sweet, nutty paste with smooth texture.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, confectionery, cooking
Very similar to almond paste in flavor and texture.
Hazelnut paste
similar taste and texture
Similar sweet, nutty paste with smooth texture.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, confectionery, cooking
Very similar to almond paste in flavor and texture.
Cashew paste
similar taste and texture
Similar sweet, nutty paste with smooth texture.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, confectionery, cooking
Very similar to almond paste in flavor and texture.
Pistachio paste
similar taste and texture
Similar sweet, nutty paste with smooth texture.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, confectionery, cooking
Very similar to almond paste in flavor and texture.
Walnut paste
similar taste and texture
Similar sweet, nutty paste with smooth texture.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, confectionery, cooking
Very similar to almond paste in flavor and texture.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use marzipan instead of almond paste?
Yes, marzipan is an excellent substitute for almond paste. It has a very similar sweet, nutty flavor and smooth texture, making it good for the same applications.
What's the difference between almond paste and hazelnut paste?
Almond paste is a sweet, nutty paste made from ground almonds with a smooth texture, while hazelnut paste is a similar sweet, nutty paste with a similar smooth texture. Both work well in similar applications but have different cultural origins.
Can I make almond paste at home?
Yes, you can make almond paste at home by properly grinding almonds with sugar and other ingredients. However, this process requires careful attention to grinding times and can be time-consuming.
How long does almond paste last?
Almond paste can last for 3-5 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. However, it's best to use it within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and texture.
Tips for substituting almond paste
7 tips- Almond paste is best when used in baking and desserts for its sweet, nutty flavor
- Store almond paste in the refrigerator and use within 3-5 days
- Almond paste pairs well with fruits, chocolate, and other ingredients
- For baking, almond paste adds depth and richness to dishes
- Almond paste can be used in both sweet and savory applications
- Add almond paste gradually to avoid overpowering other flavors
- Almond paste works well in marinades, dressings, and sauces