Biscotti (Italian Cookie)
Crunchy, twice-baked biscotti packed with vanilla and a sweet, buttery crumb—perfect for coffee or tea, a timeless Italian treat for any gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugar in a mixing bowl.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla.
- Add flour and baking powder a little at a time, mixing until dough holds together.
- Knead the dough until smooth.
- Form the dough into balls or finger shapes.
- Place the shapes about 2 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F until light brown, about 10 minutes.
- Cool the biscotti.
- Dust with confectioners sugar frosting before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. To add flavor, try mixing in chopped nuts or dried fruit such as cranberries or almonds. Ensure you mix the ingredients until they are just combined to avoid tough biscotti. These cookies are perfect for dipping in coffee or tea, making them a great companion for your afternoon break.
Serving Suggestions
Serve biscotti alongside a cup of espresso or tea for a delightful treat. They also pair beautifully with a dessert wine or a creamy dessert like Light Fettuccini Alfredo. For an added touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled biscotti or serving them with a fruit compote.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to three months. To refresh, simply reheat in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes, allowing them to regain their crisp texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Biscotti (Italian Cookie) contains roughly 1517 calories, with 23g protein, 276g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (75% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and potassium (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1331mg per serving (58% 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 butter or margarine for the shortening in this recipe. Keep in mind that butter will add a richer flavor, while margarine may slightly alter the texture. If using butter, ensure it is at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar.
How can I make these biscotti more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to the dough. You can also incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Additionally, folding in chocolate chips or flavored extracts can create a unique twist on the classic recipe.
What is the best way to slice biscotti?
For perfectly sliced biscotti, allow them to cool for about 10 minutes after baking, then use a serrated knife to cut into your desired shapes. A gentle sawing motion will help prevent the biscotti from crumbling. Slice them at an angle for traditional shapes.
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).