Almond and Orange Biscotti Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of almonds and oranges, especially when it comes to baking. I recently had the pleasure of trying out an Almond and Orange Biscotti recipe that turned out to be a delightful treat for my family. The aroma that filled the kitchen as these biscotti baked was simply irresistible. My family, who are avid coffee drinkers, found that these biscotti perfectly complemented their morning brew. The subtle citrusy notes of the orange zest and the crunchy, nutty texture of the almonds made each bite a little moment of joy. Even my kids, who aren’t usually fans of biscotti, couldn’t resist having a piece or two. It’s amazing how a simple recipe can bring so much warmth and satisfaction to a household.

Ingredients

Creating this Almond and Orange Biscotti is a straightforward process, and it all begins with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 large orange)
• 1 cup whole almonds, toasted and coarsely chopped
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon almond extract for a more intense almond flavor

These ingredients are not only easy to find, but they also come together to create a biscotti that is both fragrant and flavorful. The key is to ensure that the almonds are fresh and toasted to bring out their natural oils, which enhance the nutty taste of the biscotti.

Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the process of making these delicious biscotti:

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the biscotti from sticking.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are well-combined and evenly distributed.
3. Prepare wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with a hand mixer until light and frothy. Add the vanilla extract, orange zest, and almond extract if using, and mix until well incorporated.
4. Combine mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing with a spatula until a dough forms. Fold in the chopped almonds.
5. Shape the dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts. On a floured surface, roll each portion into a log about 12 inches long and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between them to expand.
6. First bake: Bake the logs for 25-30 minutes, or until they are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes.
7. Slice and second bake: Using a serrated knife, slice the logs into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Lay the slices cut side down on the baking sheet. Bake for another 10-15 minutes until the biscotti are dry and crisp.
8. Cool and store: Allow the biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them in an airtight container.

Following these steps will yield biscotti that are perfectly crisp and ready to be enjoyed with your favorite beverage.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe yields approximately 24 biscotti, with each serving containing about 120 calories. It’s a delightful treat that can be enjoyed without too much guilt, especially when you’re looking for something to satisfy your sweet tooth without going overboard.

Preparation Time

The total preparation time for this Almond and Orange Biscotti is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including baking time. The initial preparation for mixing the ingredients and forming the dough takes about 20 minutes, while the baking and cooling process requires approximately 55 minutes. It’s a relatively quick recipe, considering the delightful results!

How to Serve

There are numerous ways to enjoy these delicious Almond and Orange Biscotti:

• With coffee: Dunk the biscotti in a hot cup of coffee for a perfect morning or afternoon treat.
• As a dessert: Serve the biscotti with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple yet elegant dessert.
• With tea: Enjoy the biscotti with a cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea for a soothing experience.
• Gift idea: Package the biscotti in a decorative tin or box for a homemade gift for friends and family.
• Breakfast treat: Pair the biscotti with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for a wholesome breakfast.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Almond and Orange Biscotti turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

1. Use fresh ingredients: Fresh orange zest and almonds will significantly enhance the flavor of your biscotti.
2. Don’t overmix: Once the dough comes together, avoid overmixing to prevent the biscotti from becoming tough.
3. Slice carefully: Use a serrated knife to slice the biscotti for clean edges and to prevent crumbling.
4. Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the biscotti during the second bake to ensure they don’t overbake and become too hard.
5. Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a variation on the classic recipe.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Almond and Orange Biscotti:

1. Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?
   While almond flour can add a rich, nutty flavor, it’s best to stick to all-purpose flour for the right texture. Using almond flour could result in a denser biscotti.
2. How can I store the biscotti to keep them fresh?
   Store the biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature. They should remain fresh for up to two weeks.
3. Is it possible to make biscotti without nuts?
   Absolutely! You can omit the almonds or substitute them with another ingredient like chocolate chips.
4. Can I freeze the biscotti dough?
   Yes, you can freeze the dough logs before the first bake. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
5. What if I don’t have fresh oranges?
   If fresh oranges aren’t available, you can use dried orange peel or orange extract as a substitute, though fresh zest is recommended for the best flavor.

With these detailed sections, you’re now equipped to make a batch of Almond and Orange Biscotti that will impress your family and friends. Happy baking!