Gammy'S Italian Cookies, Biscotti
Crispy, buttery biscotti with a hint of vanilla, perfect for dunking in coffee or tea, appealing to those who enjoy crunchy, sweet treats with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the Crisco or lard, sugar, and butter together.
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in flour, baking powder, baking soda, vanilla, and salt.
- Wrap the sticky dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Drop teaspoons of dough onto a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using unsalted butter instead of Crisco or lard. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can add chocolate chips or dried fruits like figs or apricots. Make sure to chill the dough well to prevent spreading during baking. If the dough is too sticky, dust it lightly with flour before shaping.
Serving Suggestions
These Italian cookies are delightful on their own but pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, serve them alongside Aunt Mae's Pizzelle or a slice of Savory Italian Bread. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter at gatherings or as a sweet treat after a meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their crispness, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other. If you want to enjoy them warm later, reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes until they are heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gammy'S Italian Cookies, Biscotti contains roughly 328 calories, with 5g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (30% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2340mg per serving (102% 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 freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies. Once cooled, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and serve.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of mashed banana for a vegan option. Ground flaxseed mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) is another excellent substitute that works well in cookies.
How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are golden brown around the edges and slightly firm to the touch in the center. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-baking, as they will continue to firm up once taken out of the oven.
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).