Delicious Italian Biscotti Recipe

This delightful recipe will guide you through making a batch of aromatic and crunchy Italian biscotti. A versatile treat perfect for pairing with coffee or tea, these cookies are twice-baked to achieve the perfect crispiness. Their rich almond flavor is elevated with hints of lemon and vanilla, making them a heavenly snack. While the classic version includes almonds, you can easily adapt the recipe with other ingredients like dried fruits or different nuts. Preparing these biscotti is an excellent option for a homemade gift or a sweet addition to your family gatherings. With a large batch from this recipe, you can enjoy them fresh or store them for later, maintaining their delightful crunch. Whether you’re a baking novice or an experienced cook, these biscotti promise success. Join the ranks of Italian grandmothers by mastering this traditional recipe and delight your loved ones with authentic, homemade biscotti.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients: - 370 g sugar - 4 eggs - 7 g baking powder - 600 g flour - 500 g almonds with skin - 100 g butter - 50 g honey - 1 egg for brushing Spices and Flavorings: - 1 pinch salt - 1 packet vanilla sugar - 1/4 lemon zest

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes (includes prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Prepare the dry ingredients.** In a large bowl, sift the flour and mix it thoroughly with baking powder. Make a well in the center of the mixture. 2. **Incorporate the eggs.** Gradually add eggs into the well, mixing each time with a wooden spoon until well combined. 3. **Add the butter.** Incorporate the softened butter, cut into small pieces, along with the sugar and lemon zest. Mix until thoroughly combined. 4. **Enhance the flavor.** Add vanilla sugar, a pinch of salt, and honey to the mixture and mix well again. 5. **Mix in the almonds.** Add the almonds and knead the mixture with your hands. Initially, it may seem that the almonds don't integrate well, but continue kneading until the dough becomes pliable and the almonds are fully incorporated. 6. **Divide and shape.** Divide the dough into six parts and shape each into a long log to fit the width of your baking tray. 7. **Prepare for baking.** Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and place all dough logs on the same tray. 8. **Brush with egg.** Beat an additional egg with a fork and generously brush it over each dough log. 9. **First baking.** Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Remove and let them cool slightly. 10. **Slice the biscotti.** Using a very sharp knife, cut the logs diagonally into slices about 5-7 cm long. For best results, ensure the logs are properly cooled before slicing. 11. **Prepare for a second bake.** Place the biscotti slices back on the baking tray with the cut side up. 12. **Second baking.** Bake again for another 10 minutes, monitoring carefully to avoid over-browning. 13. **Cooling and storage.** Once cooled, store the biscotti in airtight containers to maintain their crispiness.

Tips

- **Dough Trouble:** If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour until it reaches the right consistency. - **Slicing Ease:** Cutting after the logs have rested makes slicing smoother and more precise. - **Storage:** Ensure biscotti is fully cooled before storing to prevent them from becoming soft.

Nutrition

- **Calories:** 90 per biscotti (approx.) - **Protein:** 2g - **Fats:** 4.5g - **Carbohydrates:** 12g

Variations

- **Nut Alternatives:** Swap almonds with hazelnuts or walnuts for a different flavor. - **Fruity Touch:** Add dried apricots or cranberries for a sweet fruity twist. - **Spices Galore:** Mix in some cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.

Serving Suggestions

- **Enjoy with Coffee:** Perfect companion to a morning espresso. - **Dipped in Chocolate:** Add an indulgent touch by dipping one end in dark chocolate. - **Paired with Dessert Wine:** Complements a sweet, after-dinner wine beautifully.

Best Places

1. **Caffè Gilli** - A historic café known for its exceptional biscotti and pastries. Location: Via Roma, 1/R, Florence, Italy. 2. **Sant Ambroeus** - Offers a sophisticated Italian experience, with a variety of traditional treats. Location: 1000 Madison Ave, New York, USA. 3. **Da Vinci's** - Offers some of the finest biscotti paired with excellent Italian coffee. Location: Via Roma, 58, Siena, Italy. 4. **Pasticceria Marchesi** - Renowned for its traditional Milanese pastries and biscotti. Location: Via Monte Napoleone, 9, Milan, Italy. 5. **Caffè Florian** - One of the oldest cafes in the world with an enticing selection of cookies and coffee. Location: Piazza San Marco, Venice, Italy. 6. **Café della Scala** - Known for its authentic pastries and cozy atmosphere. Location: Via della Scala, 16, Verona, Italy. 7. **Zibetto Espresso Bar** - Offers authentic Italian espresso and complementary biscotti. Location: 1221 6th Ave, New York, USA. 8. **Baratti & Milano** - Famous for its traditional desserts, including the delectable biscotti. Location: Piazza Castello, 27, Turin, Italy. 9. **Antico Caffè Greco** - A historic spot renowned for its exceptional range of classic Italian treats. Location: Via dei Condotti, 86, Rome, Italy. 10. **Fornetti Caffe** - A cozy spot that provides a taste of local biscotti varieties. Location: Corso Indipendenza, 6, Sicily, Italy.