Dacquoise is a French dessert made of crisp, nutty meringue layers, usually incorporating ground almonds or hazelnuts, sandwiched with whipped cream or buttercream. It takes its name from the town of Dax in southwestern France. The nut flour in the meringue gives it a chewier, more substantial texture than a plain meringue shell, with layers that are crisp outside and slightly soft within. It's a classic pâtisserie item, often finished with fresh fruit or a dusting of powdered sugar and served for special occasions.