Praline Paste

Usually a mixture of ground almonds and hazelnuts with sugar, but can also be found as pure hazelnuts with sugar. When the nuts are ground, they release their oils and form an oily paste with a consistency like smooth, old fashioned peanut butter. It is always made commercially because it is impossible to grind the nuts finely enough without special equipment. When stored, the oil often separates. Just mix it together before using. Store it in the refrigerator. Praline paste can be hard to find, check with a gourmet store or food distributor.