If you're looking for a crisp, slightly sweet treat with a zesty twist, these Lemon Almond Biscotti are your new best friend. Perfectly crunchy with a hint of lemon and nutty almonds, they’re a delightful companion to your morning coffee or an afternoon tea.
The magic of these biscotti lies in a few key ingredients. First, the butter gives a tender texture to the dough, and when creamed with granulated sugar, it forms a sweet, fluffy base. Eggs add richness and help bind everything together. The lemon zest is the star, infusing each bite with fresh, citrusy notes. A touch of almond extract enhances the nutty flavor, complimented by sliced almonds for a lovely crunch. Finally, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt ensure the biscotti hold their shape and bake up nice and crisp.
These biscotti are versatile and can be served alongside a cheese platter or dipped in dark chocolate for an extra indulgence. They also make a delightful addition to a brunch spread with fresh berries and yogurt.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures an even bake and easy cleanup. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until they’re light and fluffy — this usually takes a couple of minutes with a hand mixer.
Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the lemon zest and almond extract, and take a moment to enjoy the wonderful aroma.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. You don’t want to overmix, as that can make the biscotti tough. Fold in the sliced almonds gently.
Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log about 12 inches long. Place these logs on your prepared baking sheet, flatten them slightly, and pop them in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes or until they’re lightly golden.
Once baked, let the logs cool on the sheet for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, reduce your oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Using a serrated knife, slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices. Lay these slices cut side down on the baking sheet and return them to the oven for an additional 10 minutes on each side to get that classic biscotti crunch.
Finally, let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This cooling time helps them crisp up even more.