Biscotto di Sant'Antonio with a Southern African Twist

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Italian Biscotto di Sant'Antonio is infused with the flavors of Southern Africa. The addition of warm spices like cinnamon and cardamom gives the biscuits a distinct aroma and taste. Furthermore, the original recipe is enhanced with the tropical sweetness of coconut, adding a unique twist to the traditional Italian treat. We alse have the original recipe for Biscotto di Sant'Antonio, 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 ground cardamom 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (50g) desiccated coconut 1/2 cup (50g) desiccated coconut

Nutrition

• Calories: 120 kcal / 502 kJ
• Fat: 7g (Saturated Fat: 2g)
• Carbohydrates: 13g (Sugar: 6g)
• Protein: 2g
• 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, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate large bowl, whisk together the sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. 5.
   Stir in the desiccated coconut until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. 6.
   Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
7. 7.
   Gently flatten each ball with the back of a fork, creating a crisscross pattern on the surface.
8. 8.
   Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown around the edges.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and allow the biscuits to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Desiccated coconut — Make sure to use unsweetened desiccated coconut for a more authentic flavor. If you prefer a stronger coconut taste, you can toast the coconut before adding it to the dough.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter biscuit, you can sprinkle some granulated sugar on top of each biscuit before baking.
• These biscuits are best enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.

Serving advice

Serve these Spiced Coconut Biscuits as a delightful accompaniment to your afternoon tea or coffee. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Presentation advice

Arrange the biscuits on a beautiful platter or a wooden board. Dust them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Serve alongside a pot of freshly brewed tea or coffee.