drages

Drages, more commonly written dragées, are small confectioneries consisting of a center coated with a hard sugar shell. The center is typically an almond, but other kernels such as hazelnuts or peanuts, or even small candies, are used. The sugar shell is produced by applying a warm sugar syrup to the center, which gradually crystallizes into a glossy, protective coating. Some dragées also feature colored or flavored shells or chocolate centers.

Origin and use

The term dragée comes from French and has been used in European confectionery since the medieval and early modern periods. Dragées have long been associated with celebrations, including weddings and baptisms, where they are commonly given as favors or used as decorative elements on desserts. In English-speaking contexts, the almond-centered version is often linked with weddings and is frequently referred to as Jordan almonds.

Variations and applications

Beyond the classic almond dragée, varieties include dragées with chocolate centers, or centers of other nuts or candies, all encased in a hard sugar shell that may be colored or flavored. Dragées are used both as standalone candies and as decorative accents on cakes, pastries, and dessert displays in many countries.

Notes

The plural form in French is dragées; in English, it is commonly written with or without the accent. Dragées are widely available from confectioners and brands specializing in wedding favors and festive confections.