Which nut is traditionally used to make marzipan?

Almonds are the traditional nut used to make marzipan.

Marzipan is made by grinding almonds with sugar, sometimes adding egg white, rose water, or almond extract to produce a smooth, moldable confection. It can be shaped into fruits, animals, and decorative figures, or used as a coating for cakes and pastries.

The history of marzipan is disputed. Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines both contain early almond-and-sugar confections, while European traditions developed strongly in places such as Spain, Italy, Germany, and Hungary. Lübeck and Toledo are particularly famous for their marzipan traditions. The product should not be confused with almond paste, which generally contains less sugar and is used mainly as a baking ingredient.