Cantucci Biscotti

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Are you ready to take a delightful journey into the world of Italian sweets? Cantucci biscotti, those wonderfully crunchy little cookies, are perfect for dipping in your morning coffee or enjoying as a sweet snack throughout the day.

With their nutty flavor and aromatic hints of citrus, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

So, let’s roll up our sleeves and bake a batch together!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Cantucci biscotti are not just any cookies; they are a beautiful staple of Italian cuisine, often known as almond biscotti.

This recipe is super easy to follow and requires simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.

They are perfect for gifting, perfect with your coffee, and ideal for satisfying that sweet tooth without being overly sweet.

Plus, they’re incredibly crunchy, just as a good biscotti should be!

Ingredients

To make this delightful treat, here’s what you’ll need:

• 5 tablespoons (70 g) unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) pure vanilla extract
• Grated zest of half a lemon or orange
• 2 ¾ cups (340 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¼ cups (175 g) raw almonds

Now that you have everything ready, let’s head to the kitchen and start baking!

How To Make Cantucci Biscotti

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

This step is crucial because a properly heated oven is key to achieving that nice, crispy texture.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon or orange zest.

Beat the mixture with a whisk until it’s well combined and slightly frothy.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

This mix ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients.

You can use a spatula or your hands to combine the mixture.

Be careful not to overmix; just mix until the flour is incorporated.

Step 6: Fold in the Almonds

Gently fold in the raw almonds.

These will add a delightful crunch and rich flavor to each bite.

Step 7: Form the Biscotti Logs

Divide the dough into two portions and shape each into a flat log, about 2 inches wide and 12 inches long.

Make sure the logs are spaced apart on the baking sheet.

Step 8: First Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the logs are lightly golden and firm to the touch.

Step 9: Let Cool

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the logs cool for about 10-15 minutes.

This is essential as it makes slicing easier.

Step 10: Slice the Biscotti

Using a sharp knife, slice each log diagonally into ½ inch thick slices.

Place the slices cut-side down back on the baking sheet.

Step 11: Second Bake

Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake the biscotti for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 12: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack.

Once cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed or stored!

Expert Tips

• For even more flavor, consider toasting the almonds before adding them to the dough.
• Don’t skip the citrus zest; it adds a lovely brightness that complements the cookies beautifully.
• Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet when you place the biscotti for the second bake to allow for even cooking.
• Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor further.

Variations and Customizations

• Add chocolate chips or dried fruit like cranberries or apricots for a twist on the classic recipe.
• Swap half of the almonds for pecans or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
• Use almond extract in place of vanilla for a richer almond flavor.
• Try adding a dash of espresso powder for a coffee-flavored biscotti.

How to Store Leftovers

Once your Cantucci biscotti have cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

They can last up to two weeks, but trust me, they won’t last that long.

If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container.

Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving after freezing.

FAQ

Can I use different nuts for this recipe?

Absolutely! While almonds are traditional, you can use any nuts you love, like walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts.

Is it necessary to use butter in this recipe?

While traditional recipes use butter for richness, you can substitute it with a suitable margarine or a plant-based butter if you prefer.

How do I know when the biscotti are done baking?

The biscotti should be golden brown and crisp to the touch.

A good rule of thumb is to make sure they are evenly browned on the outside.

Can I make these biscotti gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour, and they should turn out just as delicious.

Conclusion

There you have it! A classic Cantucci biscotti recipe that’s easy to follow and full of flavor.

Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot cup of coffee or giving them as a sweet gift, these cookies are sure to impress.

Baking biscotti is not only a delightful kitchen activity, but it also fills your home with a wonderful aroma that everyone will love.

So, gather your ingredients, and let’s make this beautiful Italian treat! Enjoy every crunchy bite!

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