Biscotti Di Mamma("S" Cookies)
Delicious Italian biscotti with a hint of vanilla and lemon, perfect for dunking in coffee or tea, and customizable with flavorings like anise or almond.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat eggs, sugar, vanilla, and lemon juice.
- Add melted and cooled shortening to the egg mixture.
- Gradually combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients until a dough forms.
- Add flavorings such as anise or almond if desired.
- Divide dough into two or more logs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
- Slice logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick biscotti slices.
- Arrange slices on baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until crisp.
- Cool completely before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding anise or almond extract to the dough. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute half of the shortening with applesauce. Ensure the dough is not too sticky; if it is, gradually add more flour until manageable. Using a kitchen scale for measuring flour can help achieve consistency in texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful biscotti alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a classic pairing. They also make a lovely accompaniment to a dessert platter featuring treats like Grandma Lombardi's Ravioli or Hot Garlic-Herb Bread. For a festive touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the biscotti and let it set before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze the biscotti in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To enjoy them warm, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Biscotti Di Mamma("S" Cookies) contains roughly 836 calories, with 16g protein, 170g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (89% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2386mg per serving (104% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fat instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute unsalted butter or coconut oil for shortening. Keep in mind that using butter may alter the flavor slightly and could change the texture, making it a bit more tender.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Be cautious not to add too much flour, as it can make the biscotti dense.
How do I know when the biscotti are done baking?
The biscotti are done when they are golden brown and feel firm to the touch. After the first bake, you can also check them by slicing a log; they should be slightly soft but hold their shape. The second bake will crisp them up.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).