Crispy Almond Biscotti: Perfectly Crunchy and Flavorful

Introduction

Crispy Almond Biscotti are classic Italian twice-baked cookies that are ideal for pairing with a cup of coffee or tea. These crunchy treats are infused with almond flavor and are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 cup whole almonds, toasted and coarsely chopped
• Optional: 1/4 cup sliced almonds (for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Prepare the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until well combined. Add the melted butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir until a dough forms. Fold in the chopped almonds.
5. Shape the dough: Transfer the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Divide it into two equal portions and shape each portion into a log, about 10 inches long and 3 inches wide. Leave space between the logs as they will spread during baking. If desired, sprinkle sliced almonds on top and gently press them into the dough.
6. First bake: Bake the logs in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
7. Slice the biscotti: Once the logs are cool enough to handle, use a sharp serrated knife to slice them into 1/2-inch thick pieces diagonally.
8. Second bake: Arrange the biscotti slices cut-side down on the baking sheet. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, then flip the biscotti and bake for another 8-10 minutes, or until both sides are golden and crisp.
9. Cool and serve: Let the Crispy Almond Biscotti cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Store in an airtight container to keep them crisp.

Enjoy these crunchy, nutty biscotti with a cup of coffee, tea, or even dipped in hot chocolate!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 biscotti. The total preparation time is about 20 minutes, with the first bake taking 25-30 minutes and the second bake taking an additional 18-22 minutes. Overall, expect a total time of approximately 60-70 minutes.

Variations

• Chocolate Almond Biscotti: Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
• Citrus Biscotti: Substitute lemon or orange extract for the almond extract and add 1 tablespoon of lemon or orange zest.
• Spiced Biscotti: Incorporate a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cardamom for added warmth and spice.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain their crispiness.
• Reheating: If the biscotti lose their crunch, refresh them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? Yes, but omit the additional salt in the recipe.
2. Can I use other nuts instead of almonds? Yes, walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts can be used as alternatives.
3. Is it necessary to toast the almonds? Toasting enhances the flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
4. Can I freeze the biscotti? Yes, biscotti can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
5. What type of flour should I use? All-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe to ensure the biscotti have the right texture.
6. Can I make these biscotti gluten-free? Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
7. Can I use liquid sweeteners like maple syrup instead of granulated sugar? Granulated sugar is best for the texture, but if you use a liquid sweetener, you may need to adjust the amount of flour.
8. Why is the second bake important? The second bake ensures that the biscotti become extra crisp and dry out completely.
9. What if I don’t have a serrated knife? A sharp regular knife can work, but a serrated knife helps achieve clean cuts and prevent crushing the biscotti.
10. Can I add other flavors to the biscotti? Yes, feel free to add spices or extracts of your choice to customize the flavor.

Conclusion

Crispy Almond Biscotti are a delightful treat that brings a touch of Italian tradition to your table. Their crunchy texture and rich almond flavor make them an ideal companion for your coffee or tea. Whether you enjoy them as a simple snack or a sophisticated dessert, these biscotti are sure to impress with their deliciously satisfying crunch. Enjoy baking and sharing these homemade delights!

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