Indulge in the delightful combination of cherry and almond with this biscotti recipe. Perfect for dipping into your morning coffee or enjoying as an afternoon treat, these twice-baked Italian cookies offer a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite.
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, you might need to pick up dried cherries and toasted sliced almonds if you don't already have them on hand. Make sure to check the dried fruit section and the baking aisle at your local supermarket to find these key components.
Ingredients For Cherry Almond Biscotti
Flour: The base of the biscotti, providing structure and texture.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to the biscotti.
Baking powder: Helps the biscotti rise slightly during baking.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
Eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet aroma and flavor.
Dried cherries: Provides a chewy, tart contrast to the crunchy biscotti.
Toasted sliced almonds: Adds a nutty flavor and extra crunch.
Technique Tip for Making Biscotti
When folding in the chopped dried cherries and toasted sliced almonds, ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This will help each biscotti slice have a balanced flavor and texture. Additionally, when shaping the dough into logs, wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking and to achieve a smoother surface.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the biscotti denser.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar to mimic the leavening effect of baking powder.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a more complex flavor profile.
large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoon water per egg. This is a good vegan alternative and adds extra fiber.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract will enhance the almond flavor in the biscotti.
chopped dried cherries - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries offer a similar tartness and chewy texture.
toasted sliced almonds - Substitute with toasted pecans: Toasted pecans provide a similar crunch and a slightly different but complementary flavor.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Biscotti
How to Store / Freeze Biscotti
Allow the biscotti to cool completely before storing. This ensures they maintain their crisp texture and don't become soggy.
Store the biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks. For added freshness, place a piece of parchment paper between each layer of biscotti.
If you want to keep the biscotti for a longer period, consider freezing them. Place the cooled biscotti in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
Once frozen, transfer the biscotti to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of their freshness. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen biscotti, remove the desired amount from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature. For a freshly baked taste, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can store the biscotti with a slice of apple or orange in the container. The moisture from the fruit will soften the biscotti slightly. Just be sure to replace the fruit slice every few days to prevent mold.
For an extra touch of flavor, consider drizzling the biscotti with melted chocolate or dipping one end in white chocolate before storing. Allow the chocolate to set completely before placing them in the container.
If gifting the biscotti, wrap them individually in cellophane bags tied with a ribbon. This not only keeps them fresh but also adds a personal touch to your homemade gift.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the biscotti on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-10 minutes until they are warm and slightly crisp.
Use a toaster oven set to a low temperature, around 275°F (135°C). Place the biscotti directly on the rack or on a small baking sheet. Toast for 5-7 minutes.
For a quick reheat, use a microwave. Place the biscotti on a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Note that this method may not retain the crispness as well as oven methods.
If you have an air fryer, set it to 300°F (150°C). Place the biscotti in a single layer in the basket and heat for 3-5 minutes, checking frequently to avoid over-browning.
For a stovetop method, use a dry skillet over low heat. Place the biscotti in the skillet and heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, pressing down gently with a spatula to ensure even warming.
Best Tools for Making Biscotti
Oven: Used to bake the biscotti logs and then to crisp the sliced biscotti.
Baking sheet: Holds the biscotti logs and slices during baking.
Parchment paper: Prevents the biscotti from sticking to the baking sheet.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the dry ingredients and to mix the wet ingredients with the dry.
Another bowl: Used to beat the eggs and vanilla extract together.
Spatula: Helps to fold in the chopped dried cherries and toasted sliced almonds.
Serrated knife: Used to cut the baked biscotti logs into slices.
Wire rack: Allows the biscotti to cool completely after the second bake.
Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of the flour, sugar, and other ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract.
Toaster or oven: Used to toast the sliced almonds before adding them to the dough.
How to Save Time on Making Biscotti
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting. This will streamline the baking process.
Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can quickly combine wet and dry ingredients, saving you time and effort.
Toast almonds in advance: Toast the sliced almonds ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.
Chop cherries efficiently: Use kitchen scissors to quickly chop the dried cherries.
Shape logs on parchment: Shape the dough logs directly on the parchment paper to avoid extra cleanup.
Cherry Almond Biscotti
Ingredients
Biscotti Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup dried cherries chopped
- 1 cup sliced almonds toasted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and vanilla extract together. Gradually add to the dry ingredients, mixing until combined.
- Fold in the chopped dried cherries and toasted sliced almonds.
- Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet and flatten slightly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the logs are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C). Using a serrated knife, cut the logs into ½-inch slices. Place the slices cut side down on the baking sheet.
- Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the biscotti are crisp and golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses for This Biscotti
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