Lemon Almond Biscotti Recipe

Introduction

Delight in a delicious and crunchy treat with this Lemon Almond Biscotti recipe. Biscotti, originating from Italy, are twice-baked cookies that come in various flavors, making them the perfect accompaniment to coffee or tea. This version infuses the bright, zesty flavor of lemon with the rich, nutty notes of almonds, resulting in a delightful cookie that is both refreshing and satisfying. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, these biscotti are sure to impress family and friends.

Preparation Time

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 cup whole almonds, toasted
• Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Rubber spatula
• Sharp knife or bench scraper
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the biscotti from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate them thoroughly. Then, stir in the lemon zest, vanilla extract, and almond extract until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense biscotti.

Step 5: Fold in the Almonds

Gently fold in the toasted whole almonds, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Shape the Biscotti Logs

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between them for expansion.

Step 7: First Bake

Bake the biscotti in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the logs are lightly golden and firm to the touch. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 8: Slice the Logs

Once slightly cooled, transfer the logs to a cutting board. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, slice them diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces. This diagonal cut gives the biscotti a beautiful shape.

Step 9: Second Bake

Arrange the sliced biscotti cut-side down back on the baking sheet. Return them to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are crisp and lightly golden.

Step 10: Cool Before Serving

Remove the biscotti from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once they are cool, they are ready to serve!

Variations

You can customize your Lemon Almond Biscotti by making a few simple adjustments:

• Chocolate-Dipped: Melt some dark chocolate and dip the ends of the cooled biscotti into the chocolate for an indulgent treat.
• Fruit-Infused: Add dried cranberries or apricots for a fruity twist.
• Nut-Free: Replace the almonds with sunflower seeds or omit nuts altogether for a nut-free version.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage

To keep your biscotti as fresh as possible, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing the biscotti. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last up to 3 months. Simply thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Lemon Almond Biscotti are wonderfully versatile. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience:

• Serve with a side of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Pair with a fruit compote or lemon curd for a refreshing dessert.
• Crush finely and use as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
• Wrap them in decorative bags and gift them to friends or family for a personal touch during holidays or special occasions.

Conclusion

Embrace the delightful combination of zesty lemon and crunchy almonds with this easy-to-follow <Lemon Almond Biscotti> recipe. With its balanced flavors and satisfying texture, it is a perfect pick-me-up for any time of day. Enjoy baking and savoring every bite of this Italian classic!