Praline paste is a little sweet wonder made with caramelized hazelnuts and almonds, perfect for adding a rich and deliciously crunchy taste to your Ninja Creami ice creams. Whether you incorporate it directly into an ice cream base or use it as a topping, the praline paste always works! And the good news is, it’s easy to make at home.
Ingredients :
- 150 g whole hazelnuts (unsalted)
- 150 g whole almonds (unsalted)
- 200 g of sugar
- 50 ml of water
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon of neutral oil (optional, to adjust the texture)
Preparation :
- Prepare the hazelnuts and almonds
Start by roasting the hazelnuts and almonds in the oven for around 10 minutes at 150°C. This step is important because it will intensify the flavors. Let them cool slightly then rub them between your hands to remove the skins from the hazelnuts (no need to be too careful, but removing a good portion of the skins makes for a smoother dough). - Make the caramel
In a saucepan, heat the sugar and water over medium heat until the mixture takes on a golden color and forms a caramel. Be careful not to burn it, it must remain amber! - Coat the dried fruit
Once your caramel is ready, immediately add the roasted hazelnuts and almonds to the pan and mix quickly to coat the dried fruit with caramel. - Let it cool.
Spread everything on a sheet of baking paper and let it cool completely. The caramel will harden and form a sort of block of caramelized hazelnuts and almonds. - Heavy Blending
Break the block into pieces and put them in a blender. Start mixing, this will first form a powder (the famous praline), then by continuing to mix, the oil from the dried fruits will be released and the mixture will become creamier. If you want a very smooth dough, mix for a few more minutes. If the dough seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon of neutral oil to soften it. - Store your praline paste
Pour the praline paste into an airtight jar and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep for several weeks (but I bet it will be devoured long before then!).
Ninja Creami Tip:
Praline paste is ideal for creating a creamy praline ice cream with your Ninja Creami. You can also add it swirled into vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an ultra-delicious marbled effect. For chocolate-hazelnut fans, it is perfect as a topping on hazelnut ice cream or even coffee ice cream. A small spoonful of praline paste, and your dessert goes to the next level!
And there you have it, your homemade praline paste is ready! Easy, right? Whether to incorporate it directly into your ice cream or use it as a topping, this dough brings incomparable richness to all your Ninja Creami frozen creations.
Ready to take action? Let me know what delicious combinations you’ve tried!
