There’s something truly delightful about the sound of biscotti snapping in half, the perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee or afternoon tea. When I first tried Almond Cherry Biscotti at a quaint Italian café, I was mesmerized by its crunchy texture and the sweet surprise of candied cherries tucked inside. Inspired by that first bite, I set out to recreate this delicious treat in my own kitchen.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity—the dough comes together in just a few minutes, yet the end result feels luxurious. These biscotti are not only easy to make but also versatile; you can swap almonds for your favorite nuts or toss in some chocolate chips for a decadent twist. Whether you’re indulging solo or sharing them with friends, these Almond Cherry Biscotti bring a touch of Italy to your home. Let’s dive into creating these delightful, crunchy cookies that will have everyone coming back for more!
Why Love These Almond Cherry Biscotti?
Indulgence awaits with every bite of these delightful treats, combining crunchy texture with sweet candied cherries.
Quick preparation means you’ll be savoring these homemade cookies in no time!
Versatility allows you to customize the recipes with your favorite nuts or add a chocolatey twist.
Perfect pairing with coffee, tea, or dessert wine makes these biscotti great for any occasion.
Crowd-pleaser status will have friends and family asking for more, turning your kitchen into the local Italian café!
Whether for a cozy evening or a special gathering, these Almond Cherry Biscotti will surely impress.
Almond Cherry Biscotti Ingredients
• Discover the simple essentials for making delicious Almond Cherry Biscotti!
For the Biscotti Dough
- All-purpose flour – Provides the structure; substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Sugar – Adds sweetness for that perfect bite; brown sugar enhances the flavor.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavors; no substitutes are necessary here.
- Baking powder – This leavening agent creates a lighter texture; always check for freshness!
- Cold butter – Adds richness and moisture; use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Large eggs – Binds everything together; use room temperature eggs for better emulsification.
- Whole milk – Contributes creaminess; almond milk makes for a great non-dairy swap.
- Vanilla extract – Offers a lovely aromatic sweetness; go for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
- Chopped almonds – Brings crunch and nuttiness; feel free to substitute with walnuts or pecans for variety.
- Candied cherries – Lends sweetness and a burst of color; dried cherries serve as a lesser-sugar alternative.
How to Make Almond Cherry Biscotti
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by leaving them ungreased, ensuring a smooth release for your biscotti.
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Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, a key step for that perfect biscotti texture.
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Whisk the wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined. Then, gently fold this mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined.
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Incorporate the good stuff: Carefully fold in the chopped almonds and candied cherries, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough for delightful bites with every cookie.
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Shape the dough: Divide the dough into two equal halves and shape each into a 10-inch by 2.5-inch rectangle on your prepared baking sheet, keeping them spaced apart for even baking.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the rectangles are golden brown. Once baked, allow them to cool on a wire rack for 20 minutes; this step is crucial for easy slicing.
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Slice the cooled dough diagonally into ¾-inch cookies and return them to the baking sheet, placing cut-side down to achieve that signature crunchy finish.
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Final bake: Bake the biscotti again for an additional 15 minutes until they are firm and lightly golden. Once done, cool them completely on wire racks before storing.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra decadent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Almond Cherry Biscotti are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, combine them, and shape the dough into rectangles. Wrap the formed dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to enhance the flavors while preventing any browning. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the dough from the refrigerator, slice it, and follow the final baking steps as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, crunchy biscotti with minimal effort, ready to pair beautifully with your morning coffee or afternoon tea!
How to Store and Freeze Almond Cherry Biscotti
Room Temperature: Store your Almond Cherry Biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to keep them fresh and crunchy.
Fridge: Avoid refrigerating the biscotti, as it can lead to a softer texture, losing that beloved crunch.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the biscotti in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To enjoy chilled biscotti, pop them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes to restore their delightful crunch before serving.
Expert Tips for Almond Cherry Biscotti
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Cold Ingredients: Use cold butter and room temperature eggs. This contrast helps achieve a perfectly flaky texture in your Almond Cherry Biscotti.
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Don’t Skimp on Baking: Remember, the second baking is essential for that iconic crunch; skipping it will result in softer biscotti!
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Sharp Knife: Utilize a sharp knife to slice your biscotti. This prevents crumbling while ensuring neat, beautiful shapes that showcase the almonds and cherries.
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Storage Matters: Store your biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crunchiness. Avoid refrigeration, as it can make them too soft.
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Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to swap the almonds or cherries with your favorites—this flexibility makes the recipe your own while keeping that delightful biscotti charm!
What to Serve with Almond Cherry Biscotti?
Looking to elevate your Almond Cherry Biscotti experience? These delightful pairings will complement your treats beautifully.
- Espresso: The bold flavors of a rich espresso balance perfectly with the sweet cherry and nutty biscotti.
- Tea: A warm cup of herbal or black tea enhances the biscotti’s crunch, making for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Dessert Wine: Sweet dessert wines like Vin Santo create a luxurious pairing, inviting you to savor each bite as you dip.
- Fruit Compote: A tangy fruit compote adds a fresh, fruity contrast against the crunchy biscotti, elevating your dessert to new heights.
- Greek Yogurt: The creaminess of Greek yogurt can soften the crunch just enough, providing a delightful contrast while complementing the flavors.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or almond ice cream creates a deliciously indulgent experience, turning your biscotti into a mouthwatering dessert.
- Chocolate Sauce: For a decadent twist, drizzle some melted chocolate over your biscotti for an irresistible crunchy and creamy experience.
- Cappuccino: The frothy milk in a cappuccino pairs beautifully, making each biscotti bite perfectly delightful with sips of your rich coffee.
Almond Cherry Biscotti Variations
Unlock the true potential of your Almond Cherry Biscotti by exploring these delightful twists!
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Nutty Swap: Substitute almonds with pistachios or hazelnuts for a unique flavor profile that brings a new crunch.
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Chocolate Indulgence: Replace candied cherries with chocolate chips to transform your biscotti into a decadent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Citrus Zest: Add some orange or lemon zest for a refreshing burst of citrus flavor that brightens the biscotti beautifully.
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Gluten-Free Delight: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour for a delicious alternative that maintains the lovely texture.
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Dairy-Free Option: Swap cold butter for coconut oil and whole milk for almond milk to create a light, dairy-free version of these scrumptious cookies.
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Spicy Kick: Introduce a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the flour mixture for an aromatic spice that enhances the flavor complexity.
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Dried Fruits: Opt for dried cranberries or apricots if you’re in the mood for a different fruity twist, providing a pleasant chew that contrasts with the crunch.
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Savory Touch: Experiment with cheese, like grated Parmesan, in the dough for an unexpected savory biscotti that pairs beautifully with wine or cheese platters.
With these variations, each batch of Almond Cherry Biscotti can offer something new and exciting!
Almond Cherry Biscotti Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting almonds and cherries?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose whole, unsalted almonds without dark spots or signs of moisture. As for candied cherries, look for bright, vibrantly colored varieties that aren’t overly sticky. If you prefer a less sugary option, dried cherries are a great alternative.
How should I store my Almond Cherry Biscotti?
You should store your biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their signature crunch for up to 2 weeks. If you notice them getting too soft, you might need to pop them in the oven for a few minutes to re-crisp!
Can I freeze Almond Cherry Biscotti?
Yes, you can definitely freeze them! To freeze your biscotti, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and layer parchment paper between each row to prevent sticking. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes.
What if my biscotti is too soft after the second bake?
If your biscotti turned out soft despite the second baking, it’s usually because they weren’t baked long enough. Make sure to let them cool for the recommended time before slicing. If they’re still soft, return them to the oven for another 5-10 minutes until they firm up. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-brown!
Can my pets enjoy Almond Cherry Biscotti?
No, it’s best to keep biscotti away from pets. The ingredients, particularly sugar and certain nuts, can be harmful. Always prioritize your furry friends’ dietary needs and stick to treats specifically made for them.
Are there any allergies I should be aware of?
Yes, anyone with nut allergies should avoid this recipe as it contains almonds. Additionally, check for any dietary restrictions regarding dairy and gluten; you can make suitable substitutions as indicated in the ingredient breakdown for a more inclusive treat.
Almond Cherry Biscotti: Your New Favorite Crunchy Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by leaving them ungreased.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Whisk the wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gently fold this mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Incorporate the almonds and cherries: Carefully fold in the chopped almonds and candied cherries.
- Shape the dough: Divide the dough into two equal halves and shape each into a 10-inch by 2.5-inch rectangle.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the rectangles are golden brown. Allow to cool on a wire rack for 20 minutes.
- Slice the cooled dough diagonally into ¾-inch cookies and return them to the baking sheet, cut-side down.
- Bake the biscotti again for an additional 15 minutes until firm and lightly golden. Cool completely on wire racks.