Biscotti alle Mandorle (Almond Biscotti) Recipe Guide

Biscotti alle Mandorle, or almond biscotti, are a traditional Italian twice-baked cookie originating from Tuscany. These delightful treats are known for their crisp texture and delicate almond flavor, making them perfect for dipping into coffee, tea, or even a glass of vin santo. From my own personal experience, biscotti alle mandorle are incredibly rewarding to make, filling your kitchen with the warm aroma of toasted almonds and freshly baked cookies. Let me show you how I make this classic Italian recipe, so you can enjoy them at home with ease.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes (15 minutes for first bake, 20 minutes for second bake)
• Time to Stand: 10 minutes (cooling between bakes)
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Beginner-friendly
• Servings: 24 biscotti
• Calories: ~90 per biscotto
• Cost of Ingredients: Moderate ($10-$15 depending on pantry staples)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Dessert/snack
• Equipment Needed:
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife or serrated knife
  • Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Biscotti alle Mandorle  here.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (100g) whole almonds, toasted and coarsely chopped
• Optional: 1/4 cup (60g) melted butter (for a richer version)
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Biscotti alle Mandorle  here.

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract until combined.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.
5. Fold in the chopped almonds, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 2: Shape the Dough

6. Lightly dust a clean surface with flour and transfer the dough onto it. Divide it into two equal portions.
7. Roll each portion into a log approximately 12 inches (30cm) long and 2 inches (5cm) wide. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.

Step 3: First Bake

8. Bake the logs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and firm to the touch.
9. Remove from the oven and let the logs cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Slice and Second Bake

10. Using a sharp or serrated knife, slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch (1.3cm) thick pieces.
11. Lay the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet.
12. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Flip the biscotti over and bake for another 10 minutes until they are golden and crisp.

Step 5: Cool and Enjoy

13. Remove the biscotti from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Serve with coffee, tea, or vin santo for a traditional touch.

Variations

• Chocolate-Dipped Biscotti: Dip one end of each cooled biscotto into melted dark or white chocolate and let it set on parchment paper.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan: Replace eggs with a flaxseed egg (2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 5 tbsp water) and add a bit of plant-based milk for moisture.

Tips

• Use a serrated knife for cleaner cuts when slicing the biscotti.
• Toast the almonds beforehand to enhance their flavor.
• For extra crunch, bake the biscotti for a few more minutes, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Biscotti alle Mandorle  here.

Substitutions

• Nuts: Swap almonds with hazelnuts, pistachios, or walnuts.
• Extracts: Replace almond extract with orange or lemon zest for a citrus twist.
• Sweetener: Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a lower-glycemic option.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~90
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 5g

Notes on What to Expect

Your biscotti will have a crisp texture with a lightly sweet almond flavor. The twice-baking process ensures their signature crunch, making them perfect for dipping. These cookies store well in an airtight container for up to two weeks, so they’re great for gifting or enjoying over time.

Closing

I hope this guide has made baking biscotti alle mandorle seem a little less daunting! Have you tried making biscotti before? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below. I love hearing feedback from real people like you, so please leave your honest comment.