Are you looking for a delightful treat to accompany your afternoon coffee or a sophisticated addition to your next gathering? Look no further! This recipe, inspired by the legendary Betty Crocker, offers a simple yet elegant approach to homemade biscotti. These twice-baked delights are delightfully crunchy, subtly sweet, and incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for both beginner bakers and experienced cooks seeking a quick and satisfying project. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these delicious, homemade biscotti!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped almonds (or other nuts, such as pecans or walnuts)
- ½ cup dried cranberries (or other dried fruit, such as cherries or blueberries)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 2: Combine and Shape
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Stir in the chopped almonds and dried cranberries. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide.
Step 3: First Bake
Place the dough log onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscotti is lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly on the baking sheet.
Step 4: Slice and Second Bake
Reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C). Using a serrated knife, slice the cooled log diagonally into ½-inch thick slices. Arrange the slices, cut-side down, back onto the baking sheet.
Step 5: Final Bake & Cooling
Bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the biscotti are golden brown and crisp. Let the biscotti cool completely on a wire rack before storing.
Tips for the Best Biscotti:
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough biscotti. Mix until just combined.
- Use a serrated knife: A serrated knife is ideal for slicing the biscotti cleanly.
- Let the biscotti cool completely: This allows them to crisp up fully.
- Store in an airtight container: This helps maintain their crispness.
Variations:
- Chocolate Biscotti: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough.
- Citrus Biscotti: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the dough.
- Spiced Biscotti: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the dough.
- Different Nuts and Fruits: Experiment with your favorite nuts and dried fruits!
Nutritional Information (per biscotti, approximate):
- Calories: 100-120
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 15-18g
- Sugar: 6-8g
- Protein: 2-3g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
This Betty Crocker-inspired biscotti recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and easy homemade cooking can be. These delectable treats are ideal for enjoying with your favorite beverage or sharing with loved ones. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and delightful flavors of your homemade biscotti!