Cretan Cinnamon Biscotti

Ingredients

In this adaptation of the original Italian biscotti, we incorporate ingredients and flavors commonly found in Cretan cuisine. The use of Cretan honey and olive oil adds a unique Mediterranean twist to the recipe, enhancing the taste and texture of the biscotti. Additionally, we infuse the biscotti with the warm and comforting flavor of cinnamon, which is a staple spice in Cretan cooking. We alse have the original recipe for Biscotti alla cannella, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) Cretan extra virgin olive oil 1/2 cup (120ml) Cretan extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) Cretan honey 1/4 cup (60ml) Cretan honey
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (60g) chopped almonds 1/2 cup (60g) chopped almonds

Nutrition

• Calories: 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat: 8g (1g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 18g (10g sugars)
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, sugar, honey, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
5. 5.
   Fold in the chopped almonds.
6. 6.
   Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log, approximately 25cm (10 inches) long and 5cm (2 inches) wide.
7. 7.
   Place the logs onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
8. 8.
   Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the logs are golden brown and firm to the touch.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let the logs cool for 10 minutes.
10. 10.
    Using a sharp knife, slice the logs diagonally into 1.5cm (1/2 inch) thick slices.
11. 11.
    Place the slices back onto the baking sheet, cut side down, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the biscotti are crisp and lightly toasted.
12. 12.
    Remove from the oven and let the biscotti cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cretan honey — Use high-quality Cretan honey for an authentic flavor. If unavailable, substitute with any good-quality honey.
• Cretan extra virgin olive oil — Choose a fruity and robust Cretan olive oil to enhance the taste of the biscotti. If not available, use any good-quality extra virgin olive oil.
• Chopped almonds — Toast the almonds before chopping them to bring out their nutty flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dough.
• To achieve a softer texture, reduce the baking time during the second bake.
• Customize the biscotti by adding dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries to the dough.
• Serve the biscotti with a drizzle of Cretan honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Store the biscotti in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.

Serving advice

Enjoy these Cretan Cinnamon Biscotti with a cup of Greek coffee or a glass of raki. They are perfect for dipping and savoring the flavors of Crete.

Presentation advice

Arrange the biscotti on a platter, dusted with powdered sugar, and garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Serve alongside a small dish of Cretan honey for dipping.