Marrons Glacés: origins, what they are, and how to enjoy them
Marrons glacés are the pinnacle of confectionery art: whole chestnuts candied slowly, with a shiny surface and a soft heart. They are a luxury treat associated with the holidays. Discover the origins of marrons glacés, what they are, how they are made, and how to best enjoy those made with Mugello PGI Chestnuts.
The origins of marrons glacés
Italy and France both claim the noble origins of this treat. Some say they were born in the early 17th century in Cuneo, at the hands of a court chef for the Duke of Savoy, Charles Emmanuel I; others argue they originated in Lyon in the 16th century, thanks to pastry chefs who experimented with glazing candied chestnuts to preserve them. What is certain is that they became a privilege reserved for royal courts, a symbol of elegance and refinement.
What are marrons glacés
Marrons glacés (Italian for "candied chestnuts") are whole chestnuts transformed into a sweet through candying, a process that slowly replaces the water in the fruit with sugar syrup. Only a large, firm chestnut can withstand the process while remaining whole: this is why the quality of the raw material is everything.
How they are made: slow candying
In the La Fenice workshop, the chestnuts are selected one by one, peeled, and soaked for days in a syrup whose density is constantly adjusted: the fruits release water and absorb sugar. Only after about 10 days are they glazed, ready to melt in your mouth. It is a process that the industry shortens at the expense of taste; in artisanal production, time is the secret ingredient.
Whole or in pieces
- Whole marrons glacés — for special moments and as a prestigious gift.
- Marrons glacés in pieces — perfect for decorating cakes, ice cream, panettone, and creams.
They are part of our traditional range, organic and naturally gluten-free.
How to enjoy marrons glacés
- Plain, as a refined dessert accompanied by a dessert wine.
- In holiday desserts: panettone, semifreddo, Mont Blanc.
- With ice cream, crumbled on top.
- Paired with dark chocolate and chestnut cream.
How to store them and why they are the perfect gift
They should be stored at room temperature, in a cool, dry place, away from humidity, which would ruin the glaze. Due to their precious processing, they are an elegant and reliable gift idea for the holidays. Discover artisanal marrons glacés.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do marrons glacés cost more?
They require high-quality whole chestnuts and a slow, multi-day candying process with high waste: they are an artisanal sweet.
Are marrons glacés gluten-free?
Yes, chestnuts are naturally gluten-free. Ours are organic and gluten-free.
How long do marrons glacés last?
They last a long time if kept at room temperature in a cool, dry place, thanks to the sugar used to candy them.
What is the difference between marrons glacés and candied chestnuts?
They are the same thing: "marrons glacés" is the French name. The quality depends on the chestnut and the slowness of the candying process.
