Homemade Biscotti - Homemade Hooplah (2024)

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What is biscotti?

In short, biscotti (also known as cantucci) are a traditional Italian pastry. Typically considered a type of cookie, their texture is dry and crisp, making them ideal for dipping in hot drinks like coffee or decorating with smooth, sweet coatings like melted chocolate. Biscotti can come in classic flavors like vanilla or almond, but there are also chocolate varieties or biscotti that are baked with fruit and nuts.

What ingredients are in biscotti?

In order to bake up this slightly Americanized version of biscotti, you’ll need to round up the following ingredients:

• All-Purpose Flour: A white flour that is commonly used in baking for its versatility and balanced gluten content, ideal for creating a firm yet tender biscotti texture.
• Almond Flour: A gluten-free flour made from ground almonds, adding a nutty flavor and a tender crumb to the biscotti.
• Baking Powder: A leavening agent that helps the biscotti rise and achieve a light texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Fine white sugar that sweetens the biscotti and contributes to the browning and crisp texture when baked.
• Salted Butter: Adds moisture, flavor, and a tender texture to the biscotti. The salt in the butter also enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together, add moisture, and help in creating structure for the biscotti.
• Vanilla Extract: A flavoring agent that adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the biscotti.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (Optional): Used for decorating the biscotti, adding a sweet and slightly bitter chocolate flavor that complements the cookie.

How can you decorate biscotti?

Once prepared, you can decorate biscotti in fun, decorative ways, with:

• Dipped or Drizzled with Chocolate: Dip one end of each biscotti in melted chocolate or drizzle chocolate over the top for a sweet, glossy finish. You can use various types of chocolate, such as milk, semi-sweet, dark, or white.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the biscotti for a rich, gooey topping that adds a buttery sweetness.
• Coated with Frosting: Apply a layer of your favorite frosting, such as tangy cream cheese or a sweet, hard-setting glaze, to add flavor and texture.
• Topped with Nuts or Dried Fruit: Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts, or add dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots on top of the frosting for extra crunch and flavor.
• Flaky or Shaved Coconut: Add tropical flair by topping your frosted biscotti with flaky or shaved coconut, providing a sweet, chewy texture.
• Served with Jams or Jellies: Pair your biscotti with a side of jam, jelly, or marmalade for dipping, adding a fruity, sweet contrast to the biscuit’s crunch.
• Seed or Nut Garnish: Press seeds like sesame or poppy, or finely chopped nuts into the dough before baking for added texture and flavor.

How long is biscotti good for?

Once prepared, biscotti can be stored in a sealed container on the counter for up to two weeks.

Can you freeze biscotti?

Yes, you totally can!

For best results, allow biscotti to cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer (without touching) on a baking sheet or large plate. Freeze the biscotti first, then once completely chilled, they can be transferred to a sealed container or freezer bag of your choice. If possible, separate layers of cookies with wax paper or parchment paper.

When stored correctly, baked cookies can be frozen forup to three months.

Step 1 – To start off, thoroughly mix the following ingredients in a medium bowl: all-purpose flour, almond flour, and baking powder.

Step 2 – Using a stand mixer (or hand mixer + large bowl), cream together the sugar and butter until fluffy.

Step 3 – Add the dry ingredients, eggs, and vanilla to the bowl, then mix everything together.

Step 4 – Divide the dough in half and place each on its own parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Wet your fingers with water, then shape each piece of dough into a long, flat loaf (about 8-10 inches long, 2.5 inches wide, and 1/2 inch thick).

Step 5 – Bake!

Step 6 – Allow the biscotti to cool, then slice the loaves crosswise into biscotti-shaped pieces. Arrange the biscotti back on the baking sheet, cut side up.

Step 7 – Bake again!

Step 8 – While the biscotti cools, prepare your decorations (if using), such as melting the chocolate per package instructions.

Step 9 – Decorate with chocolate or other toppings as desired.

Step 10 – Serve and enjoy!

Classic and elegant, this biscotti recipe makes deliciously crisp cookies from a simple, 7-ingredient dough. Great for decorating or dipping in hot drinks!

Author: Chrisy