Biscotti recipe: classic biscotti (Cantucci)

This authentic biscotti recipe requires only a few ingredients. Cantucci, are traditional Italian cookies known for their delightful crunch and rich almond flavour perfect for dipping in coffee or sweet wine. You should also try equally delicious Amaretti biscuits.

By Italian Kitchen Confessions

This classic almond biscotti recipe has a well-balanced nutritional profile. With a lower sugar content and no butter, these cookies provide a satisfying crunch without the guilt. The inclusion of almonds adds healthy fats and protein, making them a delightful treat. (Nutri-score)

Equipment

• Baking tray
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Serrated knife
• Wire cooling rack
• Zester

Ingredients

For the Biscotti

• All-purpose flour: 2¼ cups
• Caster sugar: ¾ cup
• Eggs: 2 large
• Lemon zest: 1 tsp, grated
• Baking powder: 1 tsp
• Vanilla extract: ½ tsp
• Whole blanched almonds: 1 cup

Method

Prepare the Dough

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, beat together the sugar and eggs until pale and fluffy.
• Add vanilla extract and lemon zest; mix well.
• In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
• Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until combined.
• Stir in the whole almonds until evenly distributed.

Bake the Biscotti Logs

• Shape the dough into one or two logs about ¾-inch thick and place them on the prepared baking tray.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes until lightly golden; the center should be slightly soft.
• Remove from the oven and let cool for 30 minutes before slicing.

Slicing and Second Bake

• Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (175°C).
• Slice the logs diagonally into ½-inch thick pieces using a serrated knife.
• Place the slices cut side up on the baking tray.
• Bake for an additional 12-16 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
• Cool on a wire rack before serving.

Recommended Wine Pairing

Majestic: Vin Santo del Chianti Classico, Castello di Meleto
This sweet Tuscan dessert wine features notes of vanilla and caramel that beautifully complement the nutty flavors of almond biscotti. Its sweetness balances the biscotti’s crunch, making it an ideal pairing.

Tesco: Moscato d’Asti, La Spinetta
A lightly sparkling Italian wine with fruity aromas of peach and apricot. Its sweetness enhances the flavors of biscotti while providing a refreshing contrast to their crunchy texture.

Sainsbury’s: Taste the Difference Passito di Pantelleria
This luscious dessert wine from Sicily offers rich flavours of dried fruits and honey. Its complex sweetness pairs perfectly with almond biscotti, creating a delightful tasting experience.

Nutri-score Health Check

Nutri-Score: B (Well balanced)

This classic almond biscotti recipe receives a Nutri-Score of B, indicating it is well balanced. The score considers several factors:

Positive aspects:
– Contains healthy fats and protein from almonds
– Lower sugar content compared to many other cookies
– No butter used, resulting in a lighter texture

Negative aspects:
– Still contains sugar (¾ cup), which contributes to calorie density

The B score suggests that while these biscotti can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, moderation is key. The score has been automatically calculated from the ingredients in the recipe and is only a guide.

Recipe FAQ

• • Can I use different nuts in this biscotti recipe?
    Yes, you can substitute almonds with pistachios, hazelnuts, or walnuts for different flavours.

• • How long do these biscotti stay fresh?
    When stored in an airtight container, they can last up to a month.

• • Can I freeze almond biscotti?
    Yes, they freeze well. Store them in an airtight container for up to three months.

• • What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
    If your dough is sticky, mix in a small amount of flour until it becomes manageable.

• • Why do I need to let the logs cool before slicing?
    Cooling prevents crumbling; slicing when warm can cause them to break apart.

• • Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
    Absolutely! You can mix in dark or white chocolate chips for added flavour.

• • If I want softer biscotti, can I add butter?
    You can add a small amount of butter for flavour but keep in mind it will change the texture to be less crunchy.

• • This recipe calls for eggs; can I make it vegan?
    To make vegan biscotti, you can use flax eggs or other egg substitutes suitable for baking.

• • I don’t have blanched almonds; can I use raw ones?
    Yes, raw almonds work well too; just chop them if desired.

• I want smaller cookies; how should I adjust this recipe?
  You can divide the dough into smaller logs for smaller biscotti or cut them thinner after baking.