praline cream

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Intensity: Medium

Praline cream is a deliciously sweet and nutty spread made from caramelized sugar and toasted nuts, often hazelnuts or almonds, blended with cream and butter. This luxurious homemade praline cream can be used as a filling for cakes, a topping for ice cream, or simply enjoyed as a decadent treat on toast. It’s perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth or those who love the combination of nutty and caramel flavors.

This recipe is made with simple ingredients and can be whipped up in no time with minimal effort. Whether you’re making it for a special dessert or as a gift, this homemade praline cream is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 100g sugar (granulated)

• 50g hazelnuts (or almonds, or a mix of both)

• 100g heavy cream (whipping cream)

• 50g unsalted butter (cubed)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt (optional, to balance the sweetness)

Method:

Step 1: Toast the Nuts

1. Toast the Hazelnuts
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread the hazelnuts (or your choice of nuts) on a baking sheet in a single layer. Toast them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through to ensure even toasting. You want the nuts to become golden brown and fragrant.

2. Peel the Skins
   Once the nuts are toasted, transfer them to a clean kitchen towel and rub them together to remove the skins. Don’t worry if some skin remains; it’s perfectly fine. Chop the nuts roughly if you prefer smaller pieces in the cream.

Step 2: Make the Praline

3. Caramelize the Sugar
   In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the 100g sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon as the sugar begins to melt. Once the sugar has fully melted and turned into a golden amber color, remove the pan from the heat.

4. Add the Butter
   Quickly add the 50g butter to the hot caramelized sugar. Stir until the butter is fully incorporated. Be cautious, as the caramel will bubble up.

5. Add the Cream
   Slowly add the 100g heavy cream to the caramelized sugar and butter mixture. The mixture will bubble, so stir gently until it’s smooth and combined. If the caramel has hardened, return the pan to low heat and stir until it’s smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Praline with the Nuts

6. Add the Toasted Nuts
   Once the cream is smooth, add the toasted hazelnuts (or almonds) to the mixture. Stir to combine, ensuring the nuts are evenly coated in the creamy caramel sauce.

Step 4: Blend the Praline Cream

7. Blend for a Smooth Texture
   At this point, you have a slightly chunky praline cream. If you prefer a smoother texture, use a hand blender (immersion blender) or transfer the mixture to a regular blender or food processor. Pulse until the mixture reaches your desired consistency. You can make it completely smooth or leave it a little chunky for added texture.

8. Add Vanilla and Salt
   Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract for added flavor. If you like, you can also add a pinch of salt to balance out the sweetness and bring out the nutty flavor.

Step 5: Cool and Store

9. Cool and Store
   Allow the praline cream to cool to room temperature. It will thicken as it cools. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The cream will last for up to 2 weeks when stored properly.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Praline Cream:

• Nuts: While hazelnuts are the most traditional choice for praline cream, you can use other nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts. Roasted macadamia nuts would also work well for a richer cream.

• Consistency: The praline cream will thicken once it’s cooled. If you find it’s too thick, simply warm it up slightly and stir in a little more cream to adjust the consistency.

• Blending Options: If you want to keep some texture in the cream, pulse the mixture gently in a blender or food processor. If you prefer a completely smooth cream, blend it until silky.

• Flavor Variations: To make this cream even more decadent, you can add a small amount of melted chocolate or a splash of liqueur (like Amaretto or Frangelico) for an extra flavor boost.

• Serving Suggestions: Spread this praline cream on toast, pancakes, or waffles. It also makes an excellent filling for pastries, a topping for ice cream, or a drizzle over cakes and brownies.

Nutrition Information (Per 1 tbsp serving):

• Calories: 120 kcal

• Fat: 10g

• Saturated Fat: 5g

• Carbohydrates: 9g

• Sugars: 8g

• Protein: 1g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: 15mg

• Cholesterol: 20mg

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used. For more precise nutritional information, use a recipe calculator.

Final Thoughts:

This Homemade Praline Cream is a rich, indulgent treat that is surprisingly easy to make. With its nutty, caramel flavor and smooth, creamy texture, it adds a touch of elegance to any dessert. Whether you spread it on a slice of warm bread or use it as a topping for your favorite desserts, this praline cream is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Enjoy the sweetness and richness of this homemade praline cream—you’ll find it hard to resist!