Hazelnut Praline — the foundational hazelnut praline paste
Hazelnut praline is one of the great foundations of French (and Italian) patisserie — toasted hazelnuts coated in caramelised sugar, then ground to a smooth paste. The paste is then used as the basis for fillings, mousses, ice creams and ganaches. The combination of caramel and roasted nuts is profoundly satisfying.
i. Origin & history
Praline (the French praliné, distinct from American "praline" candy) dates to the 17th century at the court of Marshal Plessis-Praslin, whose cook reportedly invented the technique. Today it is the backbone of countless French desserts.
ii. Ingredients
Makes 1 servings · scroll the side panel to adjust
- 300 g blanched hazelnuts
- 200 g caster sugar
- 60 ml water
- Pinch salt
iii. Method
- Heat oven to 170 °C. Toast hazelnuts 10 min until deeply golden. Rub off any remaining skins.
- Combine sugar, water and salt in a heavy pan. Cook to 130 °C / 265 °F.
- Off heat, tip in the warm hazelnuts; stir until they crystallise into a sandy white coating.
- Return to medium heat; the crystallised sugar will re-melt as deep amber caramel coating each nut. Stir until evenly caramelised.
- Tip onto a lined tray; cool fully.
- Break into pieces; grind in a food processor 5-8 min — first to crumbs, then to a sandy paste, then to a smooth runny paste as the oils release.
iv. Tips & common mistakes
- Use the freshest ingredients you can. The recipe relies on them.
- Read the method through first. Several steps must be ready in advance.
- Season patiently. Sweetness and salt are tuned at the end, not the start.
v. Variations
Almond praline uses almonds. Mixed-nut praline combines hazelnut and almond. Pistachio praline is vivid green. The paste keeps for months refrigerated.
vi. Common questions
What is hazelnut praline?
Hazelnut Praline is the foundational hazelnut praline paste, from french cuisine. The paste is then used as the basis for fillings, mousses, ice creams and ganaches
Where is hazelnut praline from?
Hazelnut Praline is from the french dessert tradition; the recipe and history are detailed above.
How long does hazelnut praline keep?
See the storage note in the Quick facts panel: 2 months refrigerated.