Tozzetti with Almonds and Orange Zest

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (150g) whole almonds, toasted and roughly chopped 1 cup (150g) whole almonds, toasted and roughly chopped
• 3 large eggs 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 orange
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 17g, 9g
• 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 with the 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 toasted almonds and orange zest, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. 6.
   Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log, approximately 2 inches wide and 12 inches long.
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 lightly golden brown.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes.
10. 10.
    Using a sharp knife, slice the logs diagonally into 1-inch thick slices.
11. 11.
    Arrange the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet and return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the Tozzetti are golden and crispy.
12. 12.
    Allow them to cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Make sure to toast the almonds before chopping them. This will enhance their flavor and add a delightful crunch to the Tozzetti.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of citrus flavor, you can drizzle the cooled Tozzetti with a simple orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice.
• To enhance the nuttiness, you can substitute half of the almonds with hazelnuts or pistachios.
• Store the Tozzetti in an airtight container to maintain their crunchiness for several days.
• These make wonderful edible gifts for friends and family during the holiday season.
• Serve alongside a glass of Vin Santo, a traditional Italian dessert wine, for a truly authentic experience.

Serving advice

Tozzetti are best enjoyed with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. Serve them on a platter or in a decorative tin for a charming presentation.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Tozzetti on a rustic wooden board or a colorful dessert plate. Dust them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Garnish with a few strips of orange zest to add a pop of color.