Nougatine

Nougatine refers to a crisp preparation of caramelised sugar mixed with chopped almonds or hazelnuts, rolled out while hot and then hardened. Still pliable off the heat, it can be cut, moulded or sculpted to form bases and decorations for elaborate showpieces. Once cool, it offers a brittle texture and a roasted caramel flavour. Ground to a powder, it flavours creams and ice creams under the name pralin, a versatile building block in classic pastry.