Cinnamon Hazelnut Biscotti
Cinnamon Hazelnut Biscotti offers a crunchy, sweet treat with warm cinnamon and toasted hazelnuts, perfect for dipping in coffee or tea and ideal for sharing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or grease it.
- In a medium bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined.
- Fold in hazelnuts.
- Divide dough in half and shape into two logs on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let cool for about 10 minutes.
- Slice logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
- Return slices to baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes until crisp.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, you can substitute hazelnuts with chopped almonds or even omit nuts entirely for a classic biscotti. Make sure to cream the butter and sugar well for a light texture. If you prefer a sweeter biscotti, consider increasing the sugar by a couple of tablespoons. You can also experiment by adding chocolate chips or dried fruit to the dough for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful biscotti are perfect for dipping into coffee or tea. Serve them alongside a selection of cheeses and fruits for a lovely afternoon snack. They pair beautifully with a rich hot chocolate or a dessert wine. For a delightful treat, consider serving with a side of Quick Italian Asparagus to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store the biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze the slices in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To enjoy them later, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in a low oven for a few minutes to restore their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cinnamon Hazelnut Biscotti contains roughly 393 calories, with 8g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 746mg per serving (32% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may alter the texture slightly, making the biscotti denser. For best results, blend half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour to maintain a balanced texture while incorporating some whole grain goodness.
How do I know when the biscotti are done baking?
The biscotti are done when they are lightly golden and firm to the touch. After the initial baking, they should be allowed to cool before slicing. If they feel soft when you take them out, they will harden as they cool. The second bake will give them that desired crispness.
Can I add other spices to the biscotti?
Absolutely! You can customize your biscotti by adding spices like nutmeg, ginger, or even a hint of cardamom for a unique flavor twist. Just be cautious with the amounts; a teaspoon of an additional spice should suffice without overpowering the cinnamon.
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).