Italian Christmas baking is a cherished tradition, filled with warmth, flavor, and love. One particular recipe that captures the essence of the season is a delightful almond and orange biscotti. Perfect for dipping into coffee or enjoying on its own, this classic treat is sure to bring festive cheer to your holiday gatherings. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a batch of these delectable Italian Christmas biscotti.
Title: Almond and Orange Biscotti
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole almonds
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the almonds on a separate baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until fragrant. Let them cool, then roughly chop them and set them aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the sugar and eggs together until light and fluffy.
5. Stir in the orange zest, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully incorporated.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a cohesive dough forms.
7. Gently fold in the toasted almonds until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
8. Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
9. Bake the biscotti logs for 25-30 minutes, or until lightly golden and firm to the touch.
10. Remove the logs from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes. Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
11. Using a sharp knife, cut the logs into 1/2-inch thick slices on a slight diagonal.
12. Arrange the biscotti cut-side down on the baking sheet and return them to the oven.
13. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the biscotti are crisp and lightly golden.
14. Let the biscotti cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Enjoy these delightful Almond and Orange Biscotti with your loved ones this holiday season. Their crunchy texture, nutty flavor, and subtle citrus notes make them a perfect addition to any Christmas gathering. Share the joy of baking with those around you and savor the magic of the season with every delicious bite.
