Moroccan Almond and Sesame Biscotti

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 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 (60g) whole almonds 1/2 cup (60g) whole almonds
• 1/4 cup (35g) sesame seeds 1/4 cup (35g) sesame seeds

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 4g
• 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 large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, cumin, and sugar.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. 5.
   Fold in the almonds and sesame seeds, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. 6.
   Divide the dough in half and shape each half 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 into 1cm (1/2 inch) thick slices.
11. 11.
    Place the slices back onto the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the biscotti are crisp and lightly golden.
12. 12.
    Remove from the oven and let the biscotti cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant before adding them to the dough. This will enhance their flavor.
• Sesame seeds — Similarly, toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown before incorporating them into the dough. Toasting brings out their nutty taste.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of orange zest to the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter biscotti, you can drizzle them with a glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice after they have cooled.
• Store the biscotti in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.
• These biscotti make a lovely homemade gift when packaged in a decorative tin or jar.
• Experiment with different spices such as cardamom or nutmeg to customize the flavor to your liking.

Serving advice

Serve the Moroccan Almond and Sesame Biscotti alongside a cup of Moroccan mint tea or a strong espresso for a delightful snack or dessert. They can also be enjoyed on their own as a crunchy treat.

Presentation advice

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