Double Almond Biscotti
Crunchy, nutty almond biscotti with a hint of lemon and vanilla, perfect for dunking in coffee or tea, appealing to those who enjoy sophisticated, crunchy treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat a dry 8-inch skillet over low heat. Add 3/4 cup chopped almonds and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently until golden.
- Set the toasted almonds aside to cool.
- In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter or margarine and granulated sugar until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract and grated lemon peel.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
- Stir in the cooled toasted almonds.
- Divide dough in half and shape each into a log on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
- Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick biscotti slices.
- Arrange slices on baking sheets and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, turning once, until crisp and lightly browned.
- Cool completely on wire racks before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper almond flavor, consider using almond extract in place of some of the vanilla extract. If you prefer a crunchier texture, extend the second baking time by a few minutes. You can also substitute the slivered blanched almonds with other nuts like pistachios or hazelnuts for a unique twist. Ensure the butter is softened for easier mixing.
Serving Suggestions
These biscotti are perfect for dipping into coffee or tea. Consider pairing them with Italian Whipped Cream Icing for a delightful treat. They also complement a cheese platter or can be enjoyed alongside a sweet dessert wine. For a light meal, serve with Best Ever Italian Salad for a well-rounded experience.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To enjoy them warm, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Double Almond Biscotti contains roughly 1677 calories, with 7g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 140g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (35% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1423mg per serving (62% 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 almonds instead of slivered?
Yes, you can use whole almonds, but you'll need to chop them into smaller pieces to ensure even distribution in the dough. This will also help them toast more effectively during baking.
How do I know when the biscotti is fully baked?
The biscotti should be golden brown and firm to the touch after the first bake. For the second bake, they should be crisp and lightly browned. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, especially during the last few minutes.
Can I make these biscotti gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the baking powder is also gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but they should still turn out delicious.
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).