Biscotti or biscotto when referring to only one, are cookies which are baked twice, very dry and can be stored for a long time. There are a variety of names for biscotti although they are generally known as the name used in this article. The main distinguishing feature of biscotti is that they always have almonds. Biscotti are originally Italian and have also taken the name ‘biscuit’ in America although biscuit was not really baked twice.

The additional ingredients of biscotti, apart from the usual ingredients used to make dough include spices or nuts. The most popular flavorings are hazelnuts, almonds, pine nuts and pistachios for nuts and anise or cinnamon for spices. Without the flavorings added to biscotti, they are usually subtly sweet. There are also other types of biscotti having around 300 recipes already available. Biscotti which are dipped in chocolate are one of the most popular recipes. Although the two general types of biscotti are buttered and biscotti which do not used any kind of shortening. Buttered biscotti are more tender while unbuttered biscotti are harder.

Like any other baked treats, biscotti are widely available in the market today. They can be bought individually, in boxes or even jars depending on your preference. Bakeshops, cafes, groceries or online bake shops can provide you with the biscotti of your choice in quite an affordable price. You can also bake them at home, having the recipe of your choice and the materials, supplies or baking equipment that you need.

The basic recipe of biscotti includes 1/3 sugar and 2/3 flour where baking powder and the spices for the flavoring or type is added. The nuts are also added in the dough mixture and mixed. There are some nuts like the hazelnuts and almonds which can be included in the dough mixture with the skins. Once the nuts are added, adding beating eggs with other flavoring should be done. Baking biscotti are usually in long lengths and only cut into slices that are oval in shape with size ranging from one third to one half inches long. The slices are then dried by toasting. As mentioned, biscotti are twice baked making the cookies hard since after the second baking, most of the moisture in excess is already removed making them crunchy. Dipping the biscotti in chocolate will make chocolate glazed biscotti which may be a personal favorite of kids or even adults.

Since biscotti are hard and dry, they are best served with drinks such as coffee, tea or chocolate. Each culture or country has varied drinks served with biscotti. They can be best eaten for breakfast or snacks. Giving them as gifts can also be a good idea. With the right type of biscotti and the right packaging, you are sure to have the perfect gift for a special friend or family member during the holiday season, Valentines or any other special occasions.

Apart from being eaten alone for breakfast or snack and a gift idea, biscotti are also used as additional ingredients for certain dishes and even sauces.

Author Bio: Loren Yadeski, author of this article is also interested in sweets and recommends you to please check out gift basket if you liked reading this information.

Category: Food and Drinks
Keywords: sweets, sweet, gift basket