There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than by filling your home with the delicious aroma of freshly baked treats. This Christmas, why not whip up a batch of delightful Christmas Biscotti? These crunchy, twice-baked Italian cookies are perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace or sharing with loved ones during the festive season. Let’s dive into the recipe and spread some holiday cheer with these delightful treats!
**Christmas Biscotti**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
– 4 ounces white chocolate, melted (optional, for drizzling)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and orange zest together until smooth.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Gently fold in the dried cranberries and chopped pistachios until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Divide the dough in half. On a floured surface, shape each half into a log, about 2 inches wide and 12 inches long.
7. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the logs are lightly golden.
9. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the logs cool for about 10 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
10. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the logs into 1-inch-thick biscotti cookies.
11. Place the cookies back on the baking sheet, cut side down, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the biscotti are crisp and golden.
12. If desired, drizzle the biscotti with melted white chocolate and allow it to set before serving.
Indulge in these Christmas Biscotti with a warm drink or gift them to friends and family for a delicious holiday treat. Merry Christmas and happy baking!
