Praline Paste

Praline paste, made from hazelnuts, is best purchased because specialized equipment is required to reduce the hard hazelnut to a silky smooth consistency. Different brands of commercial praline paste vary widely between 20 to 50 percent sugar. Some contain almonds as well as hazelnuts, some producers roast the nuts, and some use caramelized sugar, all of which have a great impact on flavor. I recommend American Almond praline paste, which uses 100 percent roasted hazelnuts and contains 33 percent sugar. I also recommend Maison Glass praline paste, which contains 100 percent hazelnuts and 35.3 percent caramelized sugar.