Save to Pinterest Brighten your coffee breaks with these exquisite Candied Orange Biscotti. These traditional Italian cookies offer a delightful crunch, infused with the aromatic essence of fresh orange zest and generously studded with sweet, chewy bits of candied peel. Twice-baked to perfection, they are the ultimate companion for your favorite warm beverage or a chilled glass of dessert wine.
Save to Pinterest Originating from the city of Prato, biscotti have long been a staple of Italian confectionery. The secret to their unique texture lies in the double-baking process, which removes moisture and creates a firm, dry cookie. In this variation, the inclusion of melted butter and eggs ensures a balanced crumb that isn't too hard, while the sliced almonds provide a nutty contrast to the sweet citrus notes.
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Wet Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon finely grated orange zest
- Mix-Ins:
- 2/3 cup (100 g) candied orange peel, diced
- 1/2 cup (60 g) sliced almonds (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 3
- In a large bowl, beat sugar and eggs until pale and thick (about 2 minutes). Mix in melted butter, vanilla extract, and orange zest.
- Step 4
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Step 5
- Fold in candied orange peel and sliced almonds, if using.
- Step 6
- Divide dough in half. On the prepared baking sheet, shape each half into a log about 12 inches (30 cm) long and 2 inches (5 cm) wide. Flatten slightly.
- Step 7
- Bake for 25 minutes, until lightly golden and set. Remove from oven and cool for 10 minutes.
- Step 8
- Reduce oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).
- Step 9
- Using a serrated knife, slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick biscotti. Lay slices cut side down on the baking sheet.
- Step 10
- Bake for 10 minutes, then flip biscotti and bake for another 10 minutes, until crisp and golden.
- Step 11
- Cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve the best results, use an electric mixer to beat the eggs and sugar until they reach a thick, pale consistency. Ensure you have a sharp serrated knife for the second cut; this prevents the logs from crumbling. For storage, keep your biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain their signature crispness.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly adaptable. You can substitute the sliced almonds with pistachios for a beautiful green color contrast, or omit the nuts entirely for a nut-free version. For an extra layer of decadence, dip one side of the cooled biscotti into melted dark chocolate and allow it to set on parchment paper before serving.
Serviervorschläge
The classic way to enjoy these treats is by dipping them into a fresh espresso or a creamy cappuccino. For a more traditional Italian dessert experience, serve them alongside a glass of Vin Santo or another sweet dessert wine. They also make a sophisticated addition to a festive cookie platter or can be packaged in jars as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Save to Pinterest Baking these Candied Orange Biscotti fills your kitchen with a wonderful citrus aroma that is just as inviting as the cookies themselves. Whether shared with friends or enjoyed as a solitary treat, these twice-baked gems bring a taste of Italian tradition to your home. Enjoy the perfect balance of crunch, zest, and sweetness in every mouthful.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → What gives these biscotti their crisp texture?
The twice-baking process dries out the biscotti, creating their characteristic crispness perfect for dipping.
- → Can almonds be omitted or replaced?
Yes, almonds can be omitted or swapped for pistachios to suit preferences or dietary needs.
- → How does the candied orange peel affect flavor?
It imparts bursts of sweet citrus flavor, enhancing the bright orange zest throughout the biscotti.
- → What is the ideal way to store these biscotti?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to maintain crispness.
- → Are there suggested additions to enhance the biscotti?
Dipping cooled biscotti in melted dark chocolate adds richness and complements the citrus notes beautifully.
