Biscotti al Vino: Traditional Italian Wine Biscuits
These Biscotti al Vino (Italian Wine Biscuits) are an irresistible treat that combines the aromatic flavors of white wine, anise seeds, and a hint of sweetness, making them perfect for any occasion. With their crunchy texture and delicate taste, these cookies are an ideal choice for pairing with a cup of tea or coffee, or simply to enjoy as a delightful after-dinner treat. Easy to make and packed with simple, pantry-staple ingredients, these biscotti are a timeless Italian classic that are sure to win over the hearts of all who try them.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| White wine | 135g |
| All-purpose flour | 500g |
| Seed oil (vegetable or sunflower) | 125g |
| Sugar | 150g |
| Anise seeds | ½ teaspoon |
| Baking powder | 8g |
| Fine salt | A pinch |
| Additional sugar for coating | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Approx. per Biscuit)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 100 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Sodium | 15mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Anise Wine Mixture
To start, place the anise seeds in the white wine (135g) and give it a gentle stir. Add a pinch of fine salt and sugar (150g) to the mix. Stir it all together with your hands until the sugar has dissolved completely. This simple mixture will serve as the flavorful base for the dough.
Step 2: Form the Dough
Next, transfer this liquid mixture into a large bowl and create a well in the center of it. Gradually add the flour (500g), baking powder (8g), and seed oil (125g). Begin mixing by hand, gathering the flour from the edges into the center. Knead until the ingredients come together to form a smooth dough. If necessary, add a little more flour to achieve the right consistency—it should be firm but pliable.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Once your dough is ready, transfer it to a clean work surface. Begin by rolling small portions of the dough into 20 cm long ropes. Once you have shaped the ropes, curl them into rings, making sure the ends meet and press them together tightly to form a sealed circle. This process should give you about 40 individual biscotti.
Step 4: Coat the Biscuits
Next, dip one side of each of the rings into a shallow dish of sugar, ensuring the sugar sticks to the dough. This gives the biscotti their signature sweet, crunchy finish after baking.
Step 5: Bake the Biscotti
Arrange the sugar-coated rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced evenly apart. Bake the biscotti in a preheated static oven at 180°C (350°F) for approximately 25 minutes or until they are golden and crisp on the outside.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the biscotti from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Allow them to fully cool before serving, as their texture will crisp up even more once they are at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Biscotti al Vino
- Wine: While white wine is traditionally used, you can experiment with a different variety of wine for a slightly different flavor profile. A dry white wine is preferred for its subtlety, but sweet wine varieties can be used for a more pronounced sweetness.
- Anise Seeds: The anise seeds give the biscotti a distinctive flavor. If you prefer a different spice, you could substitute these with fennel seeds or even a touch of cinnamon, but keep in mind it will change the flavor.
- Sugar Coating: Adjust the amount of sugar for coating the biscotti depending on how sweet you like them. For a less sugary crust, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe or skip the sugar coating altogether.
- Storage: Biscotti al vino keep well in an airtight container for up to a week. Their dry, crunchy texture makes them perfect for storing and enjoying over several days.
Serving Suggestions
Biscotti al vino are a perfect accompaniment to a variety of drinks. Serve them with your favorite coffee, tea, or even a glass of dessert wine for a delightful end to a meal. They also make a charming gift, packaged in a festive box or tin.
