Honey And Spice Biscotti

Biscotti, the delightful crunchy Italian treat, gets a festive makeover in this delightful UK Christmas baking recipe – Honey And Spice Biscotti! Perfect for holiday gatherings or for cozying up by the fire with a warm cup of tea, these biscotti bursts with the flavors of honey and spices that capture the essence of the season. These biscotti are also a lovely homemade gift option for friends and family – just wrap them up in a beautiful ribbon and add a handmade tag for a personal touch.

**Ingredients:**

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or almonds (optional)
– Zest of one orange

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

3. In a separate large mixing bowl, beat together the honey, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a sticky dough forms. If using nuts, gently fold them into the dough along with the orange zest.

5. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log roughly 10 inches long and 2 inches wide, placing them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

6. Bake the logs in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until lightly golden and firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes.

7. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Using a sharp serrated knife, carefully slice the baked logs into 1/2 inch thick slices at a slight angle.

8. Place the sliced biscotti cut side down back onto the baking sheet and return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the biscotti are golden and crispy.

9. Once done, remove from the oven and let the biscotti cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

These Honey And Spice Biscotti are best enjoyed dipped into a warm cup of tea or coffee, allowing the flavors of honey and spices to shine through. Alternatively, gift them to loved ones in a pretty jar or box for a homemade touch that will be appreciated beyond the holiday season. Slice, savor, and share the festive joy with these delicious homemade biscotti this Christmas!