Monday, February 15, 2010

Biscotti

A friend of mine gave me a biscotti (sorry, biscotto) when I was at his restaurant the other day, and it reminded me that I haven't made them in a while. So I went home and did just that.


Biscotti

1/2 c whole almonds
1/3 c butter
3/4 c sugar
2 eggs
1 t vanilla
1/4 t almond extract
2 t grated orange zest
2 1/4 c flour
1 1/2 t baking powder
1/8 t nutmeg
1/4 t salt

Toast the almonds in a 325 degree oven for 8-10 minutes. Let cool, then chop into 2-3 pieces each.

Cream the butter with the sugar, then add the eggs, vanilla, almond extract and orange zest.  Mix in the flour, baking powder, nutmeg and salt, just until blended. Fold in the almonds.

Divide dough in half, and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long and 3 inches wide. Place on a greased and floured baking sheet at least 2 inches apart from each other. Bake for 23 minutes at 325 degrees. Remove from the oven, transfer to a rack, and let cool for 5 minutes.

With a serrated knife, cut each log into pieces about 3/4 of an inch wide, at a 45 degree angle. I found that I end up with fewer broken pieces if I gently press down, rather than saw back and forth.



Place the pieces cut side down on the baking sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes more, flipping the pieces over halfway through. Let cool on a rack, and store in a covered container.



I brought these to my friend, and he said they were better than the one he gave me. He even offered to sell them in his restaurant for me. Looks like I may have found myself a part-time job.

10 comments:

Bob said...

That would be exciting! You'll have to let us know how that turns out for you. They look awesome, I love good biscotti.

Vicki said...

Hey Bob - I can see doing a couple batches a week, but since I don't have a mixer, I'm not sure I'd want to do more than that :)

Mom said...

Way to go, Vicki. Remember, your Mom stopped baking when you were 11 years old because you took it over.

Vicki said...

Mom - 11? I thought it was more like 12 :)

pinknest said...

I have never tried my hand at biscotti. I don't know why. I like dunking it in my coffee. Looks yummy!

Vicki said...

Hi Pinknest - You should try making them, it's well worth it!

lynndianne said...

Vicki...I made your biscotti and they were absolutely wonderful.

Lynn
Western N.C.

Vicki said...

Hi Lynn - I'm glad you liked them :)

Damaris @Kitchen Corners said...

last night I dram about biscottis. yum

Vicki said...

Hi Damaris - It's a sign. You should make them :)