Almonds

Almonds contain 54.2 percent fat and can be used whole, chopped, or ground. They can also be found in almond paste and marzipan. American almond paste usually contains only almonds and 25 to 35 percent sugar. Marzipan is usually made with almonds, powdered sugar, and corn syrup, though the most delicious and silky varieties are made with bitter almonds and finely crystallized poured fondant. My favorites are Lübek marzipan and BIA marzipan (available at Whole Foods and Dean & DeLuca), although the Odense supermarket brand works perfectly well for making decorations.