Biscotti

Biscotti: Crunchy cookies with nuts or almonds

If you're looking for a simple and quick recipe for a delicious dessert, biscotti are the perfect choice! This Italian dessert, crunchy and aromatic, is ideal to be enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee or tea. In this detailed guide, I will present the necessary steps to achieve perfect biscotti, with nuts or almonds, and I will offer you some useful suggestions to customize your recipe.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 20 biscotti

Ingredients:
- 1 cup nuts or almonds (toasted)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- 260 grams flour
- 150 grams sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or the seeds from a vanilla pod)

Step 1: Toasting the nuts or almonds
To intensify the flavor of the biscotti, it is essential to toast the nuts or almonds. You can do this in a non-stick pan, without any fat, over medium heat. Stir constantly to avoid burning, which can ruin the flavor. Alternatively, you can toast the nuts on a baking tray in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 8-10 minutes, until they turn golden. Let them cool before using.

Step 2: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until you have a fluffy and light mixture. Add the vanilla extract and mix well. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually integrate the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, stirring with a spatula until you achieve a smooth dough. Finally, fold in the toasted nuts or almonds, making sure to distribute them evenly.

Step 3: Shaping the biscotti
On a floured surface, shape the dough into two rolls about 3 cm wide. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them, as they will spread during baking.

Step 4: First baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, until they are golden and firm to the touch. Remove them from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Cutting the biscotti
After cooling, cut the rolls into slices about 1-1.5 cm thick. Place the slices cut side up on the baking tray and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until they are crispy and golden.

Step 6: Cooling and serving
Let the biscotti cool on a cooling rack. They can be served plain or with melted chocolate on top for an extra flavor boost.

Suggestions and variations:
For an even more interesting flavor, you can add pieces of dark chocolate or dried fruits, such as cranberries or raisins, to the dough. You can also experiment with flavors by adding cinnamon or citrus zest. Biscotti keep well in an airtight container and are perfect for gifting.

Enjoy these crunchy biscotti with a cup of coffee or tea and indulge in a quick and delicious dessert!

 Ingredients: 1 cup of walnuts or almonds, roasted 1 teaspoon of baking powder 1 pinch of salt 260 grams of flour 150 grams of sugar 3 large eggs vanilla