Nonpareils are those tiny, colorful, round sprinkles that add a little bit of crunch and sweetness to desserts. They’re incredibly versatile and can be used to decorate everything from cupcakes and cakes to cookies, cake pops, and even fairy bread!
You can find nonpareils in almost any color imaginable, including some pretty unique and exclusive color blends.
What are nonpareils?
Nonpareils are tiny, perfectly round candy sprinkles that add a touch of sweetness and a bit of texture to any treat. Their name, which means “without equal” in French, hints at their unique charm.
Originating in the Netherlands, nonpareils have been used for centuries to decorate cakes and candies. Nowadays, they’re a globally recognized and beloved confectionery decoration. They’re particularly delightful when paired with chocolate.
Variety and options
Nonpareils come in a huge range of colors, from classic primary colors to unusual and exclusive blends. Use them to match the theme of a party, create patterns on baked goods, or simply add visual appeal.
If you have special dietary needs, you may be able to find gluten-free or vegan nonpareils. It’s always a good idea to check the label for allergens like soy or nuts, which may be present depending on how and where the sprinkles are manufactured.
You can buy nonpareils in small jars or giant bags. Bulk sizes and wholesale pricing may be available, so if you have a bakery or another business that uses a lot of sprinkles, that might be the way to go.
How can you use nonpareils?
Nonpareils are a classic addition to all kinds of desserts. You’ll commonly find them on cupcakes, cakes, cookies, fairy bread, and cake pops.
If you’re feeling creative, you can use them to make borders or patterns on your baked goods, or even cover the entire surface of a cake or cookie.
Beyond desserts, you can also use nonpareils to decorate ice cream, chocolate-covered pretzels, or even savory dishes if you’re looking to add a whimsical touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do they call them nonpareils?
The name “nonpareil” comes from the French term meaning “without equal” or “unrivaled.” It’s a pretty bold claim for such a simple candy, right? The name dates back to the 18th century when these sugary sprinkles were considered a fancy and decorative confectionery, especially the colored ones. They were thought to be so unique and beautiful that they were deemed “nonpareil,” meaning there was nothing else quite like them.
What kind of candy is a nonpareil?
A nonpareil is essentially a flat, typically round, chocolate disc covered in tiny, colorful sugar sprinkles. The chocolate is usually dark or semi-sweet, providing a rich base for the sweet and crunchy sprinkles. While the classic version features chocolate, you can sometimes find variations with white chocolate or even peanut butter bases. The sprinkles themselves are made of sugar, cornstarch, and food coloring, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite. They’re a pretty simple candy, but that’s part of their charm!
Wrapping Up
Whether you call them sprinkles, hundreds and thousands, or nonpareils, there’s no denying the simple, effective charm of these tiny bits of candy.
Next time you’re baking, consider the many ways you can use nonpareils to enhance your goodies. Experiment with different colors and sizes, and have fun with application techniques to create delicious, unique treats.