Almond-Cranberry Biscotti

🍪 Almond-Cranberry Biscotti 🍪

Almond-Cranberry biscotti is a delightful Italian cookie known for its crunchy texture and the perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors, with a burst of tartness from cranberries. These twice-baked biscuits are typically enjoyed with a cup of coffee, tea, or dessert wine.

📜 History:
Biscotti, which means “twice-cooked” in Italian, has a long history dating back to ancient Rome. Originally, they were made as a portable and durable food for travelers and soldiers. The modern version of biscotti, like Almond-Cranberry Biscotti, likely originated in Tuscany, Italy. They gained worldwide popularity in the 20th century, becoming a beloved treat for people of all ages.

🧁 Components:
The main components of Almond-Cranberry Biscotti include:

• Almonds: Sliced or whole almonds add a nutty and crunchy element to the biscotti.
• Cranberries: Dried cranberries provide a tart and sweet contrast to the cookie.
• Flour: All-purpose flour is the base ingredient.
• Sugar: Typically, granulated sugar is used for sweetness.
• Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent and add moisture to the dough.
• Butter or Oil: Fat is essential for texture and flavor.
• Baking Powder: It helps the biscotti rise slightly during the first baking.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a lovely aroma and flavor.
• Salt: Enhances the overall taste.

👩‍🍳 Steps to Prepare Almond-Cranberry Biscotti:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add 3 large eggs, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup of melted butter (or oil) to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.

4. Fold in Almonds and Cranberries: Gently fold in 1 cup of sliced almonds and 1/2 cup of dried cranberries into the dough.

5. Shape Dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide on the prepared baking sheet.

6. First Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the logs are firm and lightly golden.

7. Cool and Slice: Allow the baked logs to cool for about 10-15 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Slice the logs into 1/2-inch-wide diagonal slices.

8. Second Bake: Place the slices back on the baking sheet, cut sides down, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. Turn them halfway through this baking time for even crispiness.

9. Cool Completely: Let the biscotti cool completely on a wire rack.

10. Enjoy: Serve your Almond-Cranberry Biscotti with your favorite hot beverage or as a sweet treat.

⏰ Preparation Time:
The total time needed to prepare Almond-Cranberry Biscotti can vary, but it’s typically around 2 hours, including prep and baking time. Remember that biscotti require two rounds of baking, which contributes to the overall time.

Enjoy making and savoring these delicious, homemade Almond-Cranberry Biscotti! 🍪😋

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Almond-Cranberry Biscotti:

Nutrition Facts (per biscotti, approximate):

• Calories: 100-120 kcal
• Total Fat: 4-6 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
• Cholesterol: 15-20 mg
• Sodium: 50-60 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 15-18 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.5-1 gram
  • Sugars: 6-8 grams
• Protein: 2-3 grams

Health Information:

1. Moderate Calories: Almond-Cranberry Biscotti is relatively moderate in calories, making it a reasonable treat when consumed in moderation.

2. Healthy Fats: These biscotti contain healthy fats from almonds, which are a good source of monounsaturated fats that can be beneficial for heart health.

3. Low in Saturated Fat: Saturated fat content is generally low, which is important for heart health.

4. Low Sodium: They are typically low in sodium, which is beneficial for those watching their salt intake.

5. Some Fiber: While not very high in fiber, there is a small amount, thanks to the almonds and dried cranberries.

6. Protein Source: Biscotti provide a small amount of protein, which can be helpful for overall nutrition.

7. Added Sugars: The sugar content comes mainly from added sugar and the natural sugars in the dried cranberries. Be mindful of sugar intake if you’re watching your sugar consumption.

8. Gluten Content: Traditional biscotti are made with wheat flour and are not gluten-free, so they may not be suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Gluten-free alternatives are available.

Remember that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific recipe and ingredient brands used. Enjoy Almond-Cranberry Biscotti in moderation as part of a balanced diet for a delicious and occasional treat! 🍪😊