Almond Chocolate Biscotti Recipe
Overview:
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Italy with these delightful Almond Chocolate Biscotti! 🇮🇹 Perfectly paired with a steaming cup of coffee, these crispy treats will transport you to the cozy cafes of Italy. Don’t be intimidated by their elegant appearance; this recipe is surprisingly simple and yields delicious results every time. Let’s embark on a culinary adventure filled with the rich aroma of cocoa and toasted almonds!
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Servings: 18 cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup almonds, toasted and chopped
Optional Topping:
- Melted chocolate, for drizzling
Instructions:
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Prepare Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal blending.
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Toast Almonds: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast them for 7-10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Be vigilant, as nuts can quickly burn. Once toasted, set aside to cool.
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Preheat Oven: Adjust your oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder until well combined. Stir in the toasted almonds.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and almond extract until light and fluffy, using a hand mixer or stand mixer set to medium speed.
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Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs to the creamed mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition, until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: Using a large spoon, gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the creamed mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
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Shape the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, shape the dough into a log measuring 13 inches long, 2 1/2 inches wide, and 3/4 inches high.
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Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Carefully transfer the log onto the prepared baking sheet.
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Flatten the Log: Gently flatten and reshape the log to measure 14 inches long, 3 inches wide, and 3/4 inches high.
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Initial Baking: Bake the log in the preheated oven until it is dry and slightly firm to the touch, approximately 30-35 minutes.
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Cooling Stage: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and place it on a cooling rack. Allow the log to cool for 15 minutes.
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Slice the Biscotti: Carefully transfer the cooled log to a cutting surface. Peel away the parchment paper and place it back on the baking sheet. Using a serrated knife, gently slice the log into 3/4 inch slices, yielding about 18 pieces.
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Second Baking: Arrange the slices cut side down on the baking sheet. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the biscotti are dry and crisp.
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Cool Completely: Once baked, remove the biscotti from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack for about 1 1/2 hours. As they cool, they will continue to harden.
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Optional Drizzle: For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle thin streams of melted chocolate onto one end of the cooled biscotti.
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Enjoy!: Serve these delectable Almond Chocolate Biscotti alongside a piping hot cup of coffee for the ultimate Italian-inspired treat. Dip the biscotti into your coffee and savor each crunchy bite!
Storage:
Store the biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Enjoy them whenever you crave a taste of Italy!
These Almond Chocolate Biscotti are not only a delightful dessert but also a delightful gift for friends and loved ones. Share the joy of homemade treats and create lasting memories with every crunchy bite! 🍪☕️