Carquinyolis Catalan Almond Biscotti

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea or coffee during the festive holiday season, then these Carquinyolis Catalan Almond Biscotti are just the thing! Originating from Catalonia, a region in northeastern Spain known for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, these crunchy almond biscotti are the perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors. They’re a traditional Christmas delight that will transport your taste buds to the sunny streets of Barcelona. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring a touch of Catalan flair to your holiday baking!

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole almonds, toasted and roughly chopped

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the biscotti from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients together until well combined.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth. Slowly pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until a dough starts to form.

4. Once the dough is beginning to come together, fold in the toasted and roughly chopped almonds. The almonds will add a delightful crunch and nuttiness to the biscotti.

5. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Place these logs onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them as they will spread slightly while baking.

6. Bake the logs in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch. It’s important not to overbake them, as they will be baked again in the next step.

7. Remove the logs from the oven and let them cool for about 10-15 minutes. Once they have cooled slightly, use a sharp knife to slice the logs into 1-inch-thick biscotti.

8. Lay the sliced biscotti on their sides back on the baking sheet and return them to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they are crisp and lightly golden.

9. Once the biscotti are done baking, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. You can then store them in an airtight container for up to two weeks, or package them beautifully to give as homemade gifts to friends and family.

Enjoy your Carquinyolis Catalan Almond Biscotti with a steaming cup of coffee or a cozy mug of hot chocolate for the perfect holiday indulgence. These biscotti also make a lovely addition to a Christmas cookie platter or a thoughtful homemade gift for loved ones. Embrace the spirit of Catalonia this holiday season with this delightful recipe that combines tradition, flavor, and a touch of warmth from the Mediterranean.