Cherry Almond Biscotti is a delightful variation of the traditional Italian biscotti cookie. These crispy, twice-baked cookies are flavored with the sweet tang of dried cherries and the nutty richness of almonds, making them an ideal companion for coffee, tea, or a dessert platter. Biscotti, meaning “twice baked” in Italian, has a history that dates back to the 14th century, when it was created as a durable, long-lasting snack for travelers. Cherry Almond Biscotti offers a modern twist on this classic treat by infusing bright, fruity flavors with crunchy almonds, creating a sweet yet slightly tart flavor profile. These cookies are perfect for dipping into your favorite beverage or enjoying as a standalone snack.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

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

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until combined. Fold in the chopped cherries and slivered almonds.
5. Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a log on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
7. Slice each log diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Return the slices to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the biscotti are crisp and golden.
8. Let the biscotti cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Nutrients

Calories: 120 per serving (1 biscotto)
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Fiber: 1g

The Origins of Biscotti

Biscotti, meaning “twice-baked” in Italian, have a long history that dates back to the 14th century. Originating in the region of Tuscany, biscotti were originally made as a durable, long-lasting snack for travelers and soldiers. The name “biscotti” itself refers to the method of preparation—baking the dough twice to achieve a dry, crisp texture. The first bake ensures that the dough is cooked through, while the second bake gives biscotti their signature crunch and allows them to be stored for extended periods without spoiling.

The original biscotti recipes were quite simple, often consisting of flour, sugar, eggs, and nuts, with flavorings like vanilla or anise. Over time, however, variations of biscotti have evolved, and many modern recipes now include fruits, chocolate, and other flavorings. Cherry Almond Biscotti is one such modern iteration, combining the traditional Italian method with the tart sweetness of dried cherries and the nutty depth of almonds.

Why Cherry Almond Biscotti?

Cherry Almond Biscotti offers a perfect blend of sweet and nutty flavors, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy fruity and crunchy desserts. There are several reasons why this particular variation stands out:

1. Bright and Refreshing Flavor: The dried cherries add a burst of tartness to balance out the sweetness of the sugar, while the almonds provide a rich, nutty flavor. The combination of these ingredients creates a satisfying contrast of flavors that is both refreshing and indulgent.
2. Versatility: Biscotti is a versatile cookie that can be adapted to a wide variety of flavor profiles. While Cherry Almond Biscotti incorporates fruit and nuts, you can easily modify the recipe by swapping the cherries for other dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots, or by experimenting with different nuts like pistachios or walnuts.
3. Perfect for Dipping: Biscotti is traditionally enjoyed with coffee or tea, as its dry texture makes it perfect for dipping. Cherry Almond Biscotti pairs wonderfully with a hot beverage, enhancing the flavors of the fruit and almonds while also satisfying your craving for a crunchy treat.
4. Long Shelf Life: One of the main advantages of biscotti is its long shelf life. Due to its dry texture, it can be stored for several days without losing its crispness. This makes Cherry Almond Biscotti an excellent choice for batch baking, as you can prepare them in advance and store them for later enjoyment.

Baking Cherry Almond Biscotti

Making Cherry Almond Biscotti is relatively easy and doesn’t require specialized equipment or techniques. The dough is mixed, shaped into logs, and baked once before being sliced into individual pieces. The key to achieving the perfect biscotti is ensuring that the dough is not too wet or too dry, as this can affect the final texture. Once baked and sliced, the biscotti are returned to the oven for a second round of baking, which gives them their signature crunch.

The combination of dried cherries and slivered almonds adds a beautiful texture to the biscotti, with the soft chewiness of the cherries complementing the crisp crunch of the almonds and the cookie itself. As biscotti are twice-baked, they develop a rich, golden-brown color and a deep flavor that makes each bite irresistible.

Serving and Enjoying Cherry Almond Biscotti

Cherry Almond Biscotti is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a snack to accompany your morning coffee, or simply treating yourself. These biscotti are ideal for serving with hot beverages like coffee, cappuccino, or tea. The crisp texture holds up well when dipped, and the flavor combinations enhance the experience of enjoying a warm drink.

Nutritional Considerations

While Cherry Almond Biscotti is a delicious treat, it is important to keep in mind that it is still a dessert that should be enjoyed in moderation. The combination of sugar, butter, and almonds contributes to the calorie content, so it is best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily snack.

Conclusion

Cherry Almond Biscotti is a wonderful modern twist on a traditional Italian favorite. The balance of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors makes it an irresistible treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re dipping it in your morning coffee, enjoying it as an afternoon snack, or gifting it to friends and family, Cherry Almond Biscotti is sure to delight. Its easy preparation, long shelf life, and versatility make it a go-to recipe for any home baker. So, next time you’re in the mood for a crunchy, flavorful treat, consider making a batch of these delightful biscotti.