Holiday Biscotti
Festive biscotti infused with anise and fennel seeds, featuring dried cranberries, pistachios, and apricots—perfect for holiday gatherings and cookie gift boxes.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter or margarine ⓘ
- 1 cup sugar ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon baking powder ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda ⓘ
- 3 eggs ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract ⓘ
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons aniseed ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon fennel seed ⓘ
- 1 cup dried cranberries ⓘ
- 3/4 cup whole shelled pistachios ⓘ
- 1/2 cup dried apricots
- Egg Wash (recipe follows) ⓘ
Instructions
- Beat butter or margarine in a mixing bowl for 30 seconds.
- Add sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt; beat until combined.
- Beat in eggs, vanilla, and almond extract.
- Gradually beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer.
- Stir in remaining flour, aniseed, fennel seed, cranberries, pistachios, and apricots.
- Turn mixture out onto a lightly floured board.
- Cover and refrigerate for several hours or until easy to handle.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using browned butter instead of regular butter. If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute the pistachios with sunflower seeds. You can also experiment with dried fruits like cherries or figs in place of cranberries and apricots. Ensure to chill the dough thoroughly for easier handling before shaping it into logs.
Serving Suggestions
These biscotti are perfect for dipping into coffee or tea, making them an ideal accompaniment for breakfast or a light snack. They also pair beautifully with a lovely Mimosa Salad for a festive brunch. Consider serving them alongside a selection of cheeses or as part of a dessert platter featuring other sweet treats.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover biscotti, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a resealable bag, and they will keep well for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or toast briefly in the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Biscotti contains roughly 733 calories, with 9g protein, 143g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 825mg per serving (36% 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 make these biscotti gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that is designed for baking. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum or add it separately to mimic the texture of traditional flour.
How do I make the egg wash for the biscotti?
To make the egg wash, simply beat one egg with a tablespoon of water until smooth. Brush this mixture over the shaped biscotti before baking for a shiny, golden finish.
What variations can I try with this biscotti recipe?
You can personalize these biscotti by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or by incorporating chocolate chips for a sweeter touch. Using different nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, can also change the flavor profile.
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).