Marzipan Dates

• 2 oz (or 2 heaped tablespoons) icing sugar, sieved
• 2 oz

Find a medium-sized mixing bowl, a knife and a small saucer to hold the castor sugar for coating.

Mix the sifted icing sugar, the castor sugar and ground almonds together in a mixing bowl. Add the lightly beaten egg and a few drops almond essence. Mix to a smooth firm dough in the bowl, then turn out on to a clean working surface. Sprinkle with a little castor sugar and knead lightly.</