Tuscan Almond Biscuits

Ingredients

While the original German Wibele are small, crispy, and lightly sweetened biscuits, the Tuscan Almond Biscuits have a distinct Tuscan twist. The use of finely ground almonds and lemon zest adds a unique flavor profile to the biscuits, giving them a nutty and citrusy taste. Additionally, the Tuscan Almond Biscuits have a softer and chewier texture compared to the crispiness of Wibele. We alse have the original recipe for Wibele, so you can check it out.

• 200g (1 ¾ cups) finely ground almonds 200g (1 ¾ cups) finely ground almonds
• 150g (1 ¼ cups) all-purpose flour 150g (1 ¼ cups) all-purpose flour
• 150g (¾ cup) granulated sugar 150g (¾ cup) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 0.6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 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 large mixing bowl, combine the finely ground almonds, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. 3.
   Add the eggs to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a ball. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
5. 5.
   Bake the biscuits for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
6. 6.
   Remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
7. 7.
   Once cooled, dust the Tuscan Almond Biscuits with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Make sure to use finely ground almonds for the best texture in the biscuits.
• Lemon zest — Use organic lemons for the zest to avoid any bitterness from pesticides.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a splash of almond extract to the dough.
• If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, you can add a little lemon juice to the dough.
• Dust the biscuits with powdered sugar just before serving to enhance their appearance.

Serving advice

Serve the Tuscan Almond Biscuits as a sweet treat alongside a cup of espresso or a glass of Vin Santo, a traditional Tuscan dessert wine. They are also delightful when enjoyed with a scoop of gelato or a dollop of whipped cream.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Tuscan Almond Biscuits on a beautiful platter and sprinkle some additional powdered sugar on top for an elegant presentation. You can also garnish with a few slivered almonds or a twist of lemon zest.