Biscotti del Lagaccio - Italian Almond Biscotti

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (120g) blanched almonds, coarsely chopped 1 cup (120g) blanched almonds, coarsely chopped

Nutrition

• Calories: 120 kcal / 502 kJ
• Fat: 4g (0.3g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 19g (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 large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. 5.
   Fold in the chopped almonds until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. 6.
   Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log, approximately 12 inches long and 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 1/2-inch thick slices.
11. 11.
    Arrange the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet and return to the oven.
12. 12.
    Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the biscotti are crisp and lightly golden.
13. 13.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — To achieve a smoother appearance, blanch the almonds by placing them in boiling water for a minute, then draining and removing their skins. This step is optional but recommended for a more refined biscotti.

Tips & Tricks

• For a variation, you can add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dough for a citrusy or chocolatey twist.
• To enhance the biscotti's flavor, toast the almonds before chopping them.
• Store the biscotti in an airtight container to maintain their crispness and enjoy them for up to two weeks.

Serving advice

Serve the Biscotti del Lagaccio alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. They are perfect for dipping and make a delightful addition to any afternoon tea or coffee break.

Presentation advice

Arrange the biscotti on a serving platter or in a decorative jar to showcase their golden color and inviting texture. Dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.