Delicious Cherry Almond Biscotti

Cherry almond biscotti is a delightful, crisp, and flavorful Italian cookie perfect for dunking in coffee, tea, or even hot chocolate. With the sweet tartness of dried cherries and the nutty crunch of almonds, these twice-baked treats offer an irresistible balance of textures and flavors. Whether you enjoy them as a breakfast accompaniment or a sweet snack, these biscotti are a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Crunchy: Twice-baked for a crisp texture that holds up to dipping.
• Nutty & Fruity: The combination of almonds and dried cherries adds depth of flavor.
• Great for Gifting: These biscotti store well and make wonderful homemade gifts.
• Customizable: Easily tweak the recipe by adding chocolate chips or using different nuts.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup dried cherries, chopped
• 3/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in the almond and vanilla extracts.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
7. Fold in the chopped dried cherries and toasted almonds.

2. Shape and Bake

1. Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide.
2. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.

3. Slice and Bake Again

1. Using a sharp serrated knife, cut each log into 1/2-inch thick slices.
2. Lay the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet.
3. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, then flip and bake for another 10 minutes until crisp and golden.
4. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the cooled biscotti.
• Citrus Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a fresh flavor boost.
• Different Nuts: Swap almonds for pistachios, walnuts, or pecans.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: Makes about 24 biscotti.
• Prep Time: 20 minutes.
• Bake Time: 45-50 minutes (including second bake).
• Cooling Time: 10 minutes.

Storage & Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: If desired, warm in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to refresh crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep biscotti from crumbling when slicing?

Use a sharp serrated knife and slice in a gentle sawing motion to prevent breakage.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

Dried cherries work best because they have less moisture, which helps keep the biscotti crisp.

Why do I need to bake biscotti twice?

The second bake dries out the cookies, giving them their signature crunch.

Can I make these biscotti dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter.

How do I toast almonds?

Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until fragrant.

What’s the best way to store biscotti for gifting?

Wrap them in cellophane bags or place them in decorative tins for a homemade gift.

Can I dip these biscotti in chocolate?

Absolutely! Dip one end in melted chocolate and let them set on parchment paper.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, but reducing sugar too much may affect texture and browning.

How do I make softer biscotti?

Skip the second bake or bake for a shorter time for a softer texture.

What drinks pair well with biscotti?

They’re great with coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or even dessert wines like Vin Santo.

Conclusion

Cherry almond biscotti are a delightful homemade treat that balances crunch, sweetness, and nutty goodness. Whether you enjoy them with your morning coffee or give them as gifts, they’re sure to impress. Try this recipe and experiment with different variations to find your perfect flavor combination!

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