Cherry Almond Biscotti
There’s something undeniably charming about biscotti, the classic Italian twice-baked cookie. Its delightful crunch, combined with the sweet notes of almond and the tangy burst of cherries, makes Cherry Almond Biscotti an irresistible treat. Whether you’re dunking it in your morning coffee or enjoying it as an afternoon snack, this biscotti recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. The combination of slivered almonds and maraschino cherries creates a beautiful contrast of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion.
Why It’s My Go-To
Cherry Almond Biscotti is not just a cookie; it’s a versatile companion for your beverages, a delightful gift when packaged beautifully, and a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. The delightful crunch and the sweet, fruity flavor make it a favorite among friends and family. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find, and the process is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
What Goes Into Cherry Almond Biscotti
To create the perfect Cherry Almond Biscotti, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup slivered almonds – These add a beautiful crunch and nutty flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – For sweetness and texture.
- ½ cup butter, softened – This provides richness and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract – It enhances the almond flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A classic flavor that balances the biscotti.
- 2 eggs – They bind the ingredients together.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – The base for your biscotti.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – This helps the biscotti rise.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – A leavening agent for added lightness.
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, well drained, patted dry, and finely chopped – For bursts of flavor and color.
- 8 ounces white chocolate chips – For a sweet dipping experience.
Appliances & Accessories
To make your Cherry Almond Biscotti, you will need a few essential tools:
- Mixing Bowl – For combining your ingredients.
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer – To easily cream the butter and sugar.
- Baking Sheet – For baking the biscotti.
- Parchment Paper – To prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Cooling Rack – To cool the biscotti after baking.
- Sharp Knife – To slice the biscotti into perfect pieces.
Cherry Almond Biscotti Cooking Guide
Follow these simple steps to create delicious Cherry Almond Biscotti:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of your biscotti.
Step 2: Toast the Almonds
Spread the slivered almonds on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning. Remove from the oven and let cool.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts
Add the eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 6: Fold in Cherries and Almonds
Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and toasted slivered almonds until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Shape the Dough
Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a log shape, about 2 inches wide, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 8: First Bake
Bake the logs in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes.
Step 9: Slice the Logs
Using a sharp knife, slice the logs diagonally into ½-inch thick pieces.
Step 10: Second Bake
Lay the biscotti pieces cut-side down on the baking sheet. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they are dry and crisp.
Step 11: Cool and Dip in Chocolate
Remove the biscotti from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. If desired, melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler, and dip the ends of each biscotti into the melted chocolate. Allow the chocolate to set before serving.
Substitutions by Category
If you’re looking to customize your Cherry Almond Biscotti, consider these substitutions:
- Nuts: Substitute slivered almonds with chopped pecans or walnuts for a different flavor profile.
- Cherries: Use dried cherries or cranberries for a chewier texture.
- Flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier twist.
- Chocolate: Dark chocolate chips or melted dark chocolate can replace white chocolate for a richer taste.
Common Errors (and Fixes)
When baking Cherry Almond Biscotti, here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to tough biscotti. Mix until just combined.
- Not Drying Properly: If the biscotti aren’t baked long enough in the second bake, they may be chewy instead of crunchy. Ensure they are golden and firm.
- Using Wet Cherries: Ensure the maraschino cherries are well-drained and patted dry to prevent excess moisture in the dough.
- Burning the Almonds: Toast the almonds carefully and check frequently to avoid burning.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Cherry Almond Biscotti are perfect for making ahead of time. Here’s how to store them:
Once completely cooled, store the biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they will keep well for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature and re-crisp in a low oven for a few minutes.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I make these biscotti gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose works well for baking.
How do I know when the biscotti are done baking?
The biscotti should be golden brown and feel firm to the touch. They will harden further as they cool, so avoid underbaking.
Can I add spices to the biscotti?
Absolutely! Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.
What can I serve with Cherry Almond Biscotti?
These biscotti pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a glass of dessert wine. They also make a lovely accompaniment to a cheese platter.
Wrap-Up
In conclusion, Cherry Almond Biscotti is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of cherries with the nutty crunch of almonds. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this biscotti recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy the delightful flavors of homemade Cherry Almond Biscotti. Happy baking!
Cherry Almond Biscotti
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spread the slivered almonds on a baking sheet and toast for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and toasted almonds until evenly distributed.
- Divide the dough into two logs about 2 inches wide and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake the logs for 25-30 minutes until lightly golden and firm to the touch. Allow to cool for 10 minutes.
- Slice the logs diagonally into ½-inch thick pieces.
- Lay the biscotti pieces cut-side down on the baking sheet and bake for another 10-15 minutes until dry and crisp.
- Let the biscotti cool completely on a wire rack. Optionally, melt white chocolate chips and dip the ends of each biscotti.
Notes
- Store biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
- If using dried cherries, ensure they are chopped finely for even distribution.
