Almond Biscotti with a Twist

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (120g) almond flour 1 cup (120g) almond 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 teaspoon almond extract 1 teaspoon almond extract
• Zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 orange
• 1 cup (120g) whole almonds, toasted 1 cup (120g) whole almonds, toasted

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 0.4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 16g, 8g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, and orange zest until well combined.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. 5.
   Fold in the toasted almonds.
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.
    Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
11. 11.
    Using a sharp knife, slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices.
12. 12.
    Place the slices back onto the baking sheet, cut side down.
13. 13.
    Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the biscotti are crisp and dry.
14. 14.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until they become fragrant and lightly golden. This will enhance their flavor and add a nice crunch to the biscotti.

Tips & Tricks

• For a variation, you can dip one end of the biscotti in melted dark chocolate and let it set before serving.
• Store the biscotti in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.
• Feel free to add a handful of dried cranberries or chocolate chips to the dough for added flavor and texture.
• Serve the biscotti alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea for a perfect pairing.
• These biscotti make a wonderful homemade gift when packaged in a decorative tin or jar.

Serving advice

Serve the almond biscotti alongside your favorite hot beverage, such as coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. They are perfect for dipping and enjoying the delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Presentation advice

Arrange the biscotti on a serving platter or a decorative plate. You can dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Consider adding a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of orange as a garnish to enhance the presentation.