Silesian Almond Biscuits

Ingredients

While the original Italian Biscottini di Novara are typically made with hazelnuts, this adaptation for Silesian cuisine replaces hazelnuts with almonds, which are more commonly used in Silesian desserts. The Silesian Almond Biscuits also incorporate a touch of vanilla to enhance the flavor profile, giving them a unique twist compared to the original recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Biscottini di Novara, so you can check it out.

• 200g (1 ¾ cups) all-purpose flour 200g (1 ¾ cups) all-purpose flour
• 150g (1 ¼ cups) ground almonds 150g (1 ¼ cups) ground almonds
• 150g (¾ cup) granulated sugar 150g (¾ cup) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 0.6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 6g
• 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 mixing bowl, combine the flour, ground almonds, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
5. 5.
   Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently until smooth.
6. 6.
   Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a log, approximately 2 inches wide and 10 inches long.
7. 7.
   Place the logs onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between them.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven 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 ½-inch thick slices.
11. 11.
    Arrange the slices on the baking sheet and return them to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they become crispy and lightly toasted.
12. 12.
    Once baked, transfer the Silesian Almond Biscuits to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Make sure to use ground almonds for this recipe, as they provide the desired texture and flavor. You can either purchase pre-ground almonds or grind whole almonds in a food processor until finely ground.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra flavor boost, you can add a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla extract.
• If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can sprinkle the sliced biscuits with a little powdered sugar before baking them for the second time.
• Store the cooled biscuits in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.

Serving advice

Serve the Silesian Almond Biscuits alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. They are perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet treat after a meal. You can also package them in a decorative box or jar to give as a homemade gift.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Silesian Almond Biscuits on a serving platter or a decorative plate. You can dust them with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Consider adding a few whole almonds or almond slices as a garnish to enhance the visual appeal.