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biscotti
Biscotti, the classic twice-baked Italian cookie, is known for its crisp texture and long shelf life, making it perfect for dipping into coffee or tea. This vintage-style recipe reflects a simple, home-baked approach using pantry staples like flour, sugar, eggs, and margarine. The addition of nuts adds a satisfying crunch, while vanilla enhances the flavor with warmth and depth. Unlike more modern variations, this version keeps things straightforward and rustic, producing firm, golden slices that are lightly sweet and wonderfully crunchy. It’s a practical and timeless treat, ideal for sharing or storing for later enjoyment.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course snacks
Cuisine Italian
Servings 30 biscotti
Calories 140 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup margarine (1 cube, softened)
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup nuts (chopped, walnuts or almonds)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat Oven

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream Margarine and Sugar

  • In a large bowl, cream together the margarine and sugar until smooth.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

  • Beat in the eggs one at a time.
  • Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 5: Mix Dough

  • Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture.
  • Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 6: Add Nuts

  • Fold in chopped nuts evenly.

Step 7: Shape Dough

  • Divide dough into 2 logs.
  • Place on baking sheet and flatten slightly.

Step 8: First Bake

  • Bake for 25–30 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 9: Cool Slightly

  • Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.

Step 10: Slice

  • Cut logs diagonally into ½-inch slices.

Step 11: Second Bake

  • Lay slices cut-side down on baking sheet.
  • Bake another 10–15 minutes until crisp.

Tips

  • Substitute butter for richer flavor instead of margarine
  • Use almonds for a more traditional biscotti taste
  • Add anise extract for a classic Italian twist
  • Dip finished biscotti in melted chocolate
  • Add dried cranberries for sweetness
  • Toast nuts beforehand for deeper flavor
  • Store in airtight container for up to 2 weeks
  • Slice thinner for extra crunch
  • Add orange zest for brightness

Nutrition

Calories: 140kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 3gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 90mgPotassium: 60mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 120IUCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg
Keyword Baking, biscotti, coffee pairing, cookies, crunchy, Italian-inspired, nuts, vintage
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