Biscotti, the Italian-style cookie, is a popular treat around the world.
Brief History and Origin
The origin of biscotti dates back to Ancient Rome, where it was known as “panis focacius” or “twice-baked bread” due to its method of preparation. It was made with flour, water, olive oil, honey, and anise seeds. The recipe changed over time as different ingredients were added to produce different flavors.
In the 15th century, biscotti became popular in Italy and was known as “cantuccini” or “little cakes.” They were served alongside vin santo (a sweet wine) at the end of meals in Tuscany. In the 18th century, they were called “biscotto di Prato” after their birthplace: Prato in Tuscany.
Biscotti first arrived in North America in the late 19th century when Italian immigrants brought them with them to Italy. By the mid-20th century, they had become a popular snack throughout Europe and North America.
Biscotti – The Recipe
- Preparation Time: 15 mins
- Cooking Time: 40 mins
- Additional time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 1 hrs 10 mins
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 175g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp. baking powder
- 1 tsp. mixed spice
- 125g caster sugar
- 2 beaten eggs
- ½ orange zest
- 40g dried cherry
- 40g raisin
- 25g almond, blanched
Instructions
- Prepare oven and preheat to 190 degrees C. Also, prepare a cookie sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, add eggs and mixed spices. Lemon zest and sugar, mix until well combined. Add baking powder and flour to another bowl, mix well, pour in the egg mixture, and mix again to form a heavy dough.
- Add dried cherries, raisins and almonds to the dough and mix using your hands until all the nuts are well distributed.
- Roll the dough into a log, transfer it to the prepared cookie sheet and press gently until ½” thick.
- Transfer the cookie sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Then remove from oven and allow to cool for 15 minutes or until easy to handle.
- Once completely cool, cut the log into ½” thick slices. Arrange the slices back on the cookie sheet with cut sides up.
- Place in the oven again and bake for 5 to 10 minutes or until golden brown and slightly toasted.
- When ready, remove from oven, leave to rest for some time, then serve.
Popular variations
Here are a few ways you can change this basic recipe to adjust it to your liking:
- Double Chocolate Biscotti: The rich flavour of chocolate shines through in this double chocolate biscotti recipe.
- Cranberry-Orange Biscotti: The slight tart and citrusy flavour bursts in your mouth, making it refreshing.
- Lemon Biscotti: Adding lemon to biscotti makes it refreshing, light and flavoursome perfect for summertime!
- Chocolate Chip Biscotti: Chocolate chips add warmth and richness to biscotti, making it perfect with coffee or milk.
- Matcha Biscotti: A simple biscotti decorated with matcha glaze is a simple but interesting way to enjoy!
