Ingredients and Weight:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 4 tablespoons of softened butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon or orange (optional)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes (not including baking time)
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Cream together the butter and sugar.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until a dough forms.
- Add the lemon or orange zest (if using).
- Shape the dough into two logs on a baking sheet, making sure they are about 2 inches wide.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes.
- Lower the oven temperature to 325°F and slice the logs into ½ inch pieces.
- Arrange the pieces on a baking sheet and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until crisp and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely. Store in an airtight container.
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 8 servings total)
- Calories: 200-250 (depending on the amount of butter used)
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 35-45g
- Protein: 4-6g
Dish Characteristics:
- Traditional Italian cookie with a crunchy exterior and slightly chewy interior.
- Versatile dish that can be paired with coffee or tea, or as an accompaniment to ice cream or chocolate.
- Can be customized with different flavors and additions such as chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits.
User Comments:
- "These biscotti were delicious! The texture was perfect, not too hard and not too soft."
- "I love the crispy texture and the slight vanilla flavor. Great with coffee!"
- "I added chocolate chips and it was a hit! Will definitely make these again."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Be sure to use room temperature butter for best results.
- Do not overbake the biscotti, or they may become too hard.
- For a more authentic Italian flavor, use Italian-style coffee or espresso to serve with the biscotti.
