Almond paste is a sweet mixture made primarily from ground almonds and sugar, often used in baking and confectionery. It has a smooth, thick texture and a rich, nutty flavor, making it a popular ingredient in various desserts, such as marzipan, pastries, and cakes. Typically, almond paste contains about 50% almonds and 50% sugar, though recipes can vary. It is different from marzipan, which has a higher sugar content and is often used for decorative purposes. Almond paste can be found in stores or made at home by blending blanched almonds with sugar and a small amount of water.