So far, the only criticism I have of the praline selection I picked up at Hotel Chocolat is that only three types of pralines are included. That’s partially my own fault, since I didn’t pick up a larger selection box in the name of keeping my luggage light. Since I can’t go back in time and change that decision, all I can do is contemplate what remains after the Brownie Praline and Feuilletine pieces are gone: The Florentine Praline.
Visually, this praline is unique, in that it is an open chocolate in that it sits in a cup of milk chocolate. The milk chocolate cup itself is soft, smooth and creamy, with a subtle nutty flavor and slight hint of vanilla that prevent it from being overwhelmingly sweet. The crunchy Florentine top also visually intriguing, though it offers little more than that and a simple taste of almond and sugar.
Inside the milk cup and underneath that crunchy Florentine is a perfectly smooth and thick praline with a strong nutty flavor. Since each component of this praline offers something different - the chocolate shell offers a pleasing chocolate, the praline filling gives this creation a firm, nutty filling, and the crunchy Florentine topping offers a nice texture contrast – the best way to enjoy this is in small bites that involve some of each component. Though there is a bit of crumbling because topping is just a bit too strong for the soft praline interior and chocolate shell, it’s minor and is worth getting the entire effect in each bite. This is yet another winning praline from Hotel Chocolat that I’d like to see in my next boxed assortment. And one that your Valentine might want to see on the 14th.
What are your thoughts on open pralines like the Hotel Chocolate Florentine?
That praline looks the best out of all three to me!!! Its pretty, too! =P
ReplyDeleteI've never had the privilege to try something as delicious-looking as this chocolate, but it looks divine. I enjoy pralines immensely (southern upbringing?) so adding them to a chocolate cup sounds wonderful.
ReplyDeleteof the last three you've written about, this one is by far the one that looks best to me. I can't believe I lived in Boston for 4 years and never stepped foot in that store. What was I thinking???
ReplyDelete@fitchocoholic It is definitely quite pretty, and offered nice texture contrasts.
ReplyDelete@Mary at n00bcakes I think the solution is for me to make a praline recipe, post it, and for you to make your own.
ReplyDelete@NYgirl@heart Actually, the Hotel Chocolat store in Boston *just* opened this summer/fall. So my 5 years in Boston did nothing for me on that front either!
ReplyDeleteThis looks fandiddlytastic. I could get behind a truffle like this :)
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts: Yes.
ReplyDelete@Hannah Yes, come to the dark side. The dark side of delicious, nutty truffles. Welcome.
ReplyDelete@Jessica @ bake me away! I like the way you think. I mean in general. And in this case specifically.
ReplyDeleteI want a recipe for these as i think their stunning !!!!
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