Italian Cantucci (Biscotti) Recipe
Ingredients:
- Butter – 70 g, room temperature
- Sugar – 130 g
- Salt – 1/3 tsp
- Vanilla – to taste
- Orange zest – from 1 orange
- Eggs – 2 medium
- Flour – approximately 300 g
- Baking Powder – 1 tsp
- Dried Cranberries – 50 g (optional)
- Almonds – 50 g, whole or roughly chopped (optional)
- Candied Fruit (Citron) – 50 g, diced (optional)
Instructions:
- Prep Dough:
- Cream together the butter, sugar, salt, vanilla, and orange zest until well combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
- Gradually mix in the flour and baking powder to form a stiff dough.
- Fold in the cranberries, almonds, and candied fruit, if using.
- Shape Logs:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Divide the dough into two parts and form each into a log shape on a parchment-lined baking sheet. The logs should be about half an inch thick.
- First Bake:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the logs are lightly browned.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly until they are cool enough to handle but still warm.
- Slice:
- Reduce the oven temperature to 160°C (320°F).
- Using a serrated knife, slice the logs diagonally into 1/2 inch thick slices.
- Second Bake:
- Place the slices cut side down back on the baking sheet.
- Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes on each side, or until they are crisp and golden.
- Cool:
- Transfer the biscotti to a wire rack and let them cool completely. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
- Serve/Store:
- Cantucci can be served with coffee or sweet dessert wine, like Vin Santo.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
These cantucci are perfect for dipping in coffee or wine and can be customized with your favorite nuts and dried fruits. Enjoy your homemade Italian treat!
