Classic Biscotti is a delicious Italian treat that is perfect for dipping in coffee or tea. These twice-baked cookies are crunchy on the outside and have a delightful nutty flavor from the sliced almonds. Whether you’re enjoying them at breakfast or as an afternoon snack, biscotti are a delightful addition to any day.
Why Make This Recipe
Making your own Classic Biscotti at home is simple, rewarding, and allows you to customize flavors to suit your taste. Plus, homemade biscotti are fresher and healthier than store-bought versions. With just a few ingredients, you can create a batch that will impress friends and family, making them perfect for sharing or gifting.
How to Make Classic Biscotti
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup sugar
- 6 tablespoons butter (room temperature)
- 3 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- ⅔ cup sliced almonds
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400℉ and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to whip together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the eggs, vanilla, and almond extract.
- With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture, about ¼ cup at a time, mixing until just combined. Finally, fold in the almonds.
- On a lightly floured surface, shape the dough into a rough square. Cut the dough into 4 evenly sized rectangles. Roll each rectangle into 6-inch long logs and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced apart.
- Bake at 400℉ for 20-25 minutes, until the logs are a light golden color. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes.
- Lower the oven temperature to 325℉. Cut each log into about 1-inch slices, lay the slices flat on the sheet pan, and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the biscotti feel dry and are very golden.
- Remove from the oven and cool on a cooling rack until they reach room temperature. Enjoy!
- Optional: For a lovely garnish, you can dip the biscotti in some chocolate or drizzle it on top.
How to Serve Classic Biscotti
Classic Biscotti can be served on their own or with a side of your favorite beverage, such as hot coffee, espresso, or tea. They are perfect for dipping and add a delightful crunch to your drink.
How to Store Classic Biscotti
To keep your biscotti fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them in a sealed bag for up to three months.
Tips to Make Classic Biscotti
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Don’t skip the cooling period after the first bake; this helps you slice them easily.
- Mix the dough until just combined to keep the biscotti light and crunchy.
Variation
Feel free to experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or add chocolate chips for a sweeter twist. You can also try different flavor extracts like lemon or hazelnut.
FAQs
1. Can I make biscotti without almonds?
Yes! You can omit the almonds or replace them with another nut of your choice.
2. How do I know when my biscotti are done?
Biscotti should be golden brown and feel dry. You can crunch one to check the texture.
3. Can I make these biscotti gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend works for baking.
Classic Biscotti
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour Sifted
- 2 teaspoons baking powder Double check for freshness
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 0.75 cup sugar Granulated
- 6 tablespoons butter Should be at room temperature
- 3 pieces eggs Large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 0.25 teaspoon almond extract
Add-ins
- 0.67 cup sliced almonds Toast for enhance flavor if desired
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400℉ and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to whip together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the eggs, vanilla, and almond extract.
- With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture, about ¼ cup at a time, mixing until just combined.
- Finally, fold in the sliced almonds.
Shaping and Baking
- On a lightly floured surface, shape the dough into a rough square.
- Cut the dough into 4 evenly sized rectangles and roll each into 6-inch long logs.
- Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet, spaced apart.
- Bake at 400℉ for 20-25 minutes, until the logs are a light golden color. Allow to cool for 5 minutes.
- Lower the oven temperature to 325℉, cut each log into 1-inch slices, lay slices flat, and return to the oven.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the biscotti feel dry and are very golden.
Cooling
- Remove from the oven and cool on a cooling rack until they reach room temperature.
- Enjoy! Optional: Dip in chocolate or drizzle it on top for garnish.
