Description
Crunchy, twice-baked Italian Biscotti (Cantucci) studded with whole almonds and brightened with lemon zest make the perfect accompaniment to coffee or dessert wine. This traditional Tuscan cookie recipe is easy to prepare and ideal for gifting or enjoying year-round.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven:
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
-
Prepare Dough:
-
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
-
In another bowl, beat eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until combined.
-
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing to form a dough.
-
Fold in whole almonds evenly.
-
-
Shape Logs:
-
Divide dough into two equal parts. On a lightly floured surface, shape each into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide.
-
Place logs on the prepared baking sheet, spaced apart.
-
-
First Bake:
-
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until logs are golden brown and firm.
-
Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
-
-
Slice and Second Bake:
-
Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
-
Using a serrated knife, slice logs diagonally into ½-inch thick slices.
-
Arrange slices cut side down on the baking sheet.
-
Bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp and golden.
-
-
Cool and Store:
-
Allow biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack before storing.
-
Notes
-
For a softer biscotti, shorten the second bake slightly.
-
Substitute almonds with other nuts like pistachios or walnuts.
-
Store biscotti in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40–45 minutes total (two bakes)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian