The first bite of a fresh Almond Cherry Biscotti transports me to a sunny café in Italy, where the air is rich with the scent of brewed coffee and baked treats. These delightful cookies strike the perfect balance between a buttery crunch and the sweet chewiness of candied cherries, all punctuated by the nutty goodness of almonds. Whether you’re indulging with your afternoon espresso or sharing them as a thoughtful gift, these biscotti are an absolute crowd-pleaser. And here’s the best part—they come together in under an hour! So, let’s dive into this recipe that celebrates classic flavors and simple joys, elevating your baking game without the fuss. Embrace the warmth of homemade treats that will surely impress family and friends!
Why are Almond Cherry Biscotti so special?
Delightful Crunchiness: Each bite offers a perfect snap, thanks to the twice-baked technique that defines biscotti.
Sweet Meets Savory: The combination of candied cherries and crunchy almonds creates a flavor explosion that’s both satisfying and unique.
Quick & Easy: With a prep time of under an hour, these delicious cookies are perfect for those busy days when you crave something homemade.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them with coffee, tea, or even as a gift—these biscotti fit any occasion effortlessly!
Guilt-Free Indulgence: At about 293 calories each, they offer a treat without the overwhelming guilt, making them an ideal snack.
Enjoy making these Almond Cherry Biscotti and watch your loved ones delight in their irresistible charm!
Almond Cherry Biscotti Ingredients
• Gather these essentials for perfect homemade biscotti!
For the Biscotti
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; swap for almond flour for gluten-free delights.
- Sugar – Adds sweetness; brown sugar gives a richer flavor.
- Salt – Enhances overall taste.
- Baking Powder – Helps the biscotti rise for a light texture.
- Cold Butter (cubed) – Adds richness; use margarine for a dairy-free option.
- Large Eggs (room temperature) – Binds the ingredients; flax eggs can substitute for a vegan version.
- Whole Milk – Adds moisture; non-dairy milk works as a great alternative.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses the biscotti with flavor; almond extract is a tasty substitution too.
- Chopped Almonds – Adds delightful crunch; consider using pistachios for a different twist.
- Candied Cherries (halved) – Contributes sweetness and chewiness; dried cherries can be a tasty swap.
Enjoy crafting these Almond Cherry Biscotti that promise crispiness and flavor in every bite!
How to Make Almond Cherry Biscotti
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir well until everything is thoroughly mixed—this creates the base for your delightful biscotti!
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Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter into the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with small pea-sized pieces throughout.
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Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the large eggs, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is combined and slightly frothy, ensuring a rich flavor in your dough.
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Combine Ingredients: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir just until blended; the dough will be somewhat crumbly, which is perfect for these crunchy cookies.
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Add Mix-Ins: Gently fold in the chopped almonds and halved candied cherries. Distribute them evenly, ensuring everyone gets a delightful crunch and burst of sweetness in each bite.
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Shape the Dough: Divide the dough into two portions and shape each into a rectangle, about 10×2.5 inches in size, on a lined baking sheet. Make sure to leave space between them for even cooking!
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First Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30-35 minutes or until they turn golden brown. You want them firm to the touch—it’s the start of their perfect crunch!
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Cool the Logs: Once baked, cool the biscotti on wire racks for 20 minutes. This step is crucial; it makes slicing them easier and helps maintain their shape.
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Slice Biscotti: Transfer the cooled logs to a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice them diagonally into 3/4-inch thick pieces. Place these cut-side down back onto the baking sheets.
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Second Bake: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the biscotti feel firm. This final bake is what gives them that satisfying crunch we all love!
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Final Cooling: Allow the biscotti to cool completely on wire racks before storing them in an airtight container. This prevents them from becoming soft and ensures they stay crunchy.
Optional: For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over cooled biscotti for a deliciously decadent addition!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Almond Cherry Biscotti
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Room Temperature: Store biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to retain their crunchiness.
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Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, place biscotti in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 weeks in the fridge; just allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze biscotti in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy.
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Reheating: If you like them warm, reheat the frozen biscotti in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, restoring their delightful crunch!
Make Ahead Options
These Almond Cherry Biscotti are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before you’re ready to bake. This simple step saves you time during your busy week and keeps your biscotti-making process effortless. Additionally, prepare the dough and shape it into logs; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them according to the recipe instructions. This way, you’ll achieve just as delicious biscotti with minimal effort, making it easy to indulge or share with loved ones anytime!
Almond Cherry Biscotti Variations
Customize your baking experience with these delicious twists that will spark your creativity!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour for a delightful gluten-free version that retains all the flavors!
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Vegan Delight: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use non-dairy milk for a vegan variant that everyone can enjoy without compromising on taste.
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Nutty Alternatives: Swap chopped almonds for pistachios or walnuts to infuse a different nutty flavor, adding your unique touch to the biscotti.
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Citrus Zest: Replace candied cherries with dried cranberries or add orange zest for a bright, refreshing twist that sings of sunny afternoons!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate the indulgence by drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled biscotti or dipping half in chocolate for a heavenly treat!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, comforting flavor that enhances the sweetness of the cherries.
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Herbal Infusion: Mix in some finely chopped fresh rosemary or lavender into the dough for an aromatic twist that brings an unexpected delight to each bite.
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Dried Fruits Mix: Experiment with different dried fruits like apricots or figs to create a medley bursting with flavor and texture—it’s a delightful surprise with every bite!
What to Serve with Almond Cherry Biscotti?
Pairing your delightful biscotti with the right accompaniments transforms a simple snack into a memorable experience.
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Rich Espresso: The bold flavor of a hot espresso perfectly contrasts the sweetness of the biscotti, enhancing both the coffee and cookie.
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Flavored Tea: Whether it’s a calming chamomile or a robust Earl Grey, tea offers a fragrant backdrop to your biscotti’s crunch.
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Homemade Chocolate Sauce: A warm drizzle elevates the dessert factor, adding a luxurious touch that pairs beautifully with the nutty flavors.
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Fruit Platter: Fresh berries or slices of juicy peaches bring a refreshing balance, highlighting the biscotti’s sweet and savory elements perfectly.
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Cheese Board: Soft cheeses like brie create a lovely creamy complement to the crisp cookie, making for a sophisticated pairing.
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Milk or Nut Milk: A cold glass of milk—dairy or almond—offers a comforting dip, enhancing the biscotti’s flavors in every bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, top your biscotti with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing you to savor the melding of textures and temperatures.
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Sparkling Wine: A crisp sparkling wine or prosecco adds a celebratory note, enhancing the joyful crunch of each biscotti bite. Enjoy this delightful pairing for a festive touch!
Expert Tips for Almond Cherry Biscotti
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Whisk Eggs Well: Ensure the egg mixture is whisked until pale; this adds air and results in a lighter, fluffier biscotti.
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Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the biscotti during the second bake to prevent over-browning. Aim for a golden finish for best flavor!
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Cool Enough: Let the baked logs cool properly before slicing. This step makes cutting easier and helps maintain the biscotti’s shape.
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Store Properly: Store your Almond Cherry Biscotti in an airtight container to keep them crunchy and safeguard against humidity.
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Experiment with Nuts: Feel free to substitute the almonds with other nuts like pistachios for a delightful twist!
Almond Cherry Biscotti Recipe FAQs
What type of almonds should I use for Almond Cherry Biscotti?
For the best flavor and crunch, I recommend using raw or toasted almonds. Raw almonds will toast during baking, enhancing their natural nutty taste. If you’re short on time, pre-packaged slivered or sliced almonds are a convenient alternative.
How should I store my biscotti?
Absolutely! Store your Almond Cherry Biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. This will keep them fresh and crunchy. If your kitchen tends to be humid, a cooler spot or using a desiccant packet in the container helps maintain their beloved crispiness.
Can I freeze Almond Cherry Biscotti?
Yes, you can! To freeze your biscotti, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge or pop them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore their crunch.
My biscotti turned out too soft; what happened?
Very often, this happens if the dough is too wet or if the biscotti didn’t bake long enough during the second bake. Make sure the logs are completely cooled before slicing, and ensure you bake them until firm. Each oven is a bit different, so adjusting the baking time might be necessary—keep an eye on them!
Can I make these biscotti vegan?
Absolutely! You can easily modify the Almond Cherry Biscotti recipe to be vegan by substituting the eggs with two flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes until it thickens) and using non-dairy milk. This way, you get to enjoy the same delightful crunch without the animal products!
Are there any dietary considerations for my pets?
That’s a great question! While our Almond Cherry Biscotti are perfect for human indulgence, be cautious with sharing them with pets. The sugar and possible chocolate (if used) can be harmful to dogs and cats. It’s always best to consult a vet before offering any human treats to your furry friends!
Almond Cherry Biscotti: A Sweet Crunch for Every Occasion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir well until thoroughly mixed.
- Add the cold, cubed butter into the dry mixture. Incorporate until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until combined and slightly frothy.
- Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until blended.
- Fold in the chopped almonds and halved candied cherries evenly into the dough.
- Divide the dough into two portions and shape each into rectangles on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool the biscotti on wire racks for 20 minutes.
- Slice the cooled logs diagonally into 3/4-inch thick pieces, placing cut-side down back onto the baking sheets.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until firm.
- Allow biscotti to cool completely on wire racks before storing.