Coussin de Lyon - French Almond and Chocolate Praline Pillows

Ingredients

• 200g (1 3/4 cups) ground almonds 200g (1 3/4 cups) ground almonds
• 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
• 100g (3.5 oz) dark chocolate praline 100g (3.5 oz) dark chocolate praline
• 1 tsp almond extract 1 tsp almond extract
• 200g (7 oz) green marzipan 200g (7 oz) green marzipan
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 15g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.01g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the ground almonds, granulated sugar, dark chocolate praline, and almond extract. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized balls and set aside.
3. 3.
   Roll out the green marzipan on a clean surface dusted with powdered sugar. Cut out small squares or circles, large enough to wrap around the almond filling.
4. 4.
   Place each almond filling ball in the center of a marzipan square or circle. Fold the marzipan over the filling, gently pressing the edges together to seal.
5. 5.
   Repeat the process until all the almond filling is used.
6. 6.
   Dust the Coussin de Lyon with powdered sugar for a final touch.
7. 7.
   Allow the Coussin de Lyon to set for at least 2 hours before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Make sure to use ground almonds for a smooth and consistent texture in the filling.
• Dark chocolate praline — Opt for a high-quality dark chocolate praline to enhance the richness of the filling.

Tips & Tricks

• To add a hint of citrus flavor, you can zest some lemon or orange and mix it into the almond filling.
• For a festive touch, decorate the Coussin de Lyon with edible gold leaf or silver dragees.
• If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the almond mixture.
• Store the Coussin de Lyon in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain their freshness.
• These delightful treats make for a perfect gift during special occasions or as a sweet surprise for loved ones.

Serving advice

Serve the Coussin de Lyon on a decorative platter or in individual paper cups. They can be enjoyed as a standalone dessert or paired with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Coussin de Lyon in a visually appealing pattern, showcasing their vibrant green color. Dust them with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch.