Praline & Nougatine

The praline and nougatine used by the pastry cook should not be confused with the candies of the same name, although like the candies, both are based on a mixture of caramel and nuts. Praline is made with whole almonds or hazelnuts and has a wonderfully fragrant taste. It is a favorite dessert flavoring for mousses, pastry cream and ice cream. It can be bought ready-made from specialty baking shops as a compact brown paste, or made at home. Nougatine is cut into decorative shapes or used as a base for gâteaux and to line molds.