Disguised Fruits

Add a touch of elegance and tradition to your end of year celebrations with a plate of exquisite disguised fruits! These bite-sized desserts are a classic treat that have been enjoyed for generations. Picture a stunning platter filled with an array of dried fruits, each stuffed with a decadent marzipan filling and expertly coated in a shimmering crystallized confectionary shell. The result is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that is sure to impress your guests. As we gather together with our loved ones during this festive season, I am reminded of my early days as an apprentice pastry chef. Apprenticeship started at a young age for me, and at 14 years old, I would already be hard at work by 4 am. A few weeks before Christmas, it was the apprentices' responsibility to create these exquisite disguised fruits, which were incredibly popular throughout Europe. If you're looking to create some special memories with your children during the Christmas holidays, making disguised fruits is the perfect activity. Not only will it bring a sense of joy and creativity to your kitchen, but it will also delight your little ones as they participate in the process. It's a great opportunity to teach them about the art of confectionery and the importance of tradition. One important thing to note is that disguised fruits require some advance planning. It's best to make them a week ahead of time, as this allows the flavors to develop and the confectionary shell to fully crystallize. This also means that you won't have to worry about last-minute preparations during the busy holiday season. To create these delectable treats, you'll need a variety of dried fruits such as dates, figs, apricots, and prunes. The marzipan (choose high quality) filling adds a sweet and creamy element to each bite.