Almond Biscotti with Toasted Almonds

Name: Almond Biscotti with Toasted Almonds
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup whole almonds, roughly chopped; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon almond extract

Author: Tessa

Published: July 14, 2025

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Almond biscotti has been my go-to recipe for years, ever since I first tasted that delightful crunch at a small Italian cafe. I remember thinking, “There’s no way I can make something this perfect at home.” But then, one chilly afternoon, armed with a recipe I found in an old cookbook, I decided to try. The smell of toasting almonds filling my kitchen was intoxicating, and pulling those twice-baked logs out of the oven felt like magic. That first bite, crisp and nutty, dipped into my coffee, was a revelation. It wasn’t just a cookie; it was an experience, a little piece of Italian tradition I could create myself. This recipe for almond biscotti isn’t just about baking; it’s about bringing that warmth and simple pleasure into your own home, transforming basic ingredients into something truly special and utterly irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Almond Biscotti Recipe

You’re going to adore this almond biscotti recipe for so many reasons! It’s designed to bring pure joy to your kitchen and your taste buds. Here’s why:

Achieve that signature crisp, satisfying crunch every single time.
The perfect companion for your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
Surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner bakers.
Fills your home with a comforting, nutty aroma that feels like a warm hug.
An elegant treat that feels special, yet requires no fancy techniques.

Almond Biscotti - detail 1

The Irresistible Charm of Homemade Almond Biscotti

There’s nothing quite like the sensory experience of baking and then savoring your own homemade almond biscotti. From the gentle warmth of the oven to the fragrant scent of toasted almonds, every step is a delight. You’ll feel a true sense of accomplishment with each perfect, crunchy bite.

Essential Equipment for Perfect Almond Biscotti

Making perfect almond biscotti doesn’t require a professional kitchen, but having the right tools will certainly make the process smoother and more enjoyable. You’ll want a large mixing bowl for combining your dry ingredients and incorporating the wet ones. A sturdy baking sheet, lined with parchment paper, is crucial for both the first and second bakes, ensuring even cooking and easy removal. Finally, a good serrated knife is your best friend for cleanly slicing the partially baked logs into individual biscotti without crumbling them.

Ingredients for Delicious Almond Biscotti

Creating truly delicious almond biscotti starts with gathering quality ingredients. You’ll need 2 cups of all-purpose flour, which provides the main structure for our sturdy cookies. For sweetness and that essential crisp texture, we’ll use 1 cup of granulated sugar. A single teaspoon of baking powder gives our biscotti a little lift, preventing them from being too dense, while 1/2 teaspoon of salt balances the flavors beautifully. The star of the show, of course, is 1 cup of whole almonds, which you’ll want to roughly chop for maximum nutty goodness in every bite. Binding everything together are 2 large eggs, and for that unmistakable flavor, 1 teaspoon of almond extract ties it all together.

Key Ingredients for Authentic Almond Biscotti

The magic in this almond biscotti recipe truly comes down to a few key players. That wonderful almond extract is absolutely essential; it amplifies the natural almond flavor, making each bite sing. And while it might seem like a small amount, the baking powder isn’t just for lift; it contributes to that characteristic slightly airy, yet firm, texture that defines a perfect biscotti. Don’t skimp on fresh, whole almonds either – their crunch and toasted flavor when baked are simply irreplaceable.

How to Prepare Your Almond Biscotti

Making almond biscotti is a two-part process, and each step is important for achieving that perfect, crunchy texture we all love. Don’t worry, it’s not complicated, just a matter of following the steps. We’ll start by getting our oven ready and mixing our dry ingredients, then bring it all together with the wet ingredients to form a stiff dough. The key is to handle the dough gently and ensure proper baking at each stage to prevent a crumbly or too-soft biscotti. I’ll walk you through everything, making sure your homemade almond biscotti turns out beautifully crisp and delicious.

First Bake: Forming and Baking the Almond Biscotti Logs

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper – this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until they’re well combined. Then, stir in those roughly chopped almonds, making sure they’re evenly distributed. In a separate smaller bowl, whisk the eggs and almond extract together. Pour this wet mixture into your dry ingredients and mix until a stiff dough forms. It might seem a little crumbly at first, but keep mixing gently; it will come together. Divide the dough in half. On your prepared baking sheet, shape each half into a log, about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Don’t press too hard, just gently form them. Bake these logs for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden and firm to the touch. This initial bake sets the shape and starts the cooking process for your almond biscotti.

Second Bake: Slicing and Crisping Your Almond Biscotti

Once your logs are out of the oven from the first bake, immediately reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C). This lower temperature is crucial for the second bake, which is all about crisping them up without burning. Let the logs cool on the baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling period allows them to firm up slightly, making them much easier to slice without crumbling. Carefully transfer the logs to a cutting board. Now, for the signature shape! Using a serrated knife – this is important for a clean cut – slice each log diagonally into 1/2-inch thick cookies. Place these slices cut-side down back on the baking sheet. Now, for the final crisping: bake for another 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and feel dry to the touch. Let your newly crisped almond biscotti cool completely on a wire rack before you even think about storing them. This ensures maximum crunch!

Almond Biscotti - detail 2

Tips for Success with Your Almond Biscotti

Achieving truly perfect almond biscotti is all about a few simple tricks. First, for an even deeper, nuttier flavor, take a few extra minutes to lightly toast your chopped almonds before adding them to the dough. Just a quick toast in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant will make a huge difference. Second, avoid overmixing the dough once you’ve added the flour; too much mixing can develop the gluten and lead to tough biscotti. Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Finally, that serrated knife for slicing is non-negotiable! It gives you clean, even cuts without crushing the delicate semi-baked logs, which is key for that beautiful, classic almond biscotti shape.

Storing and Serving Your Almond Biscotti

To keep your homemade almond biscotti perfectly crisp and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to two weeks, though I doubt they’ll last that long in your house! When it comes to serving, these beauties are made for dipping. Their sturdy texture is ideal for a warm cup of coffee, espresso, or your favorite tea. For a special treat, try dipping them in a small glass of dessert wine after dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions About Almond Biscotti

I get a lot of questions about my almond biscotti recipe, and I love helping fellow home bakers achieve biscotti perfection! Here are some of the most common questions I hear, along with my best advice. Whether you’re curious about making them in advance or wondering about flavor variations, you’ll find the answers here to help you master this classic Italian cookie.

Can I Make Almond Biscotti Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Almond biscotti are fantastic for making ahead. Because of their twice-baked nature, they hold up incredibly well. You can bake them completely, cool them, and then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. They’re perfect for holiday gifts or just having on hand for unexpected guests!

What Can I Substitute for Almonds in Biscotti?

If you’re not an almond fan or just want to try something different, you have options! Hazelnuts are a fantastic choice; they offer a rich, slightly sweet flavor. Pistachios would add a beautiful color and a distinct nutty taste. You could even try pecans or walnuts for a more traditional American-style biscotti. Just be sure to chop them roughly, just like you would the almonds, for that perfect texture.

Estimated Nutritional Information for Almond Biscotti

While this recipe focuses on deliciousness, it’s helpful to have an idea of the nutritional content. Based on typical homemade almond biscotti recipes, each cookie (serving size) contains approximately 120 calories, with about 5g of fat, 18g of carbohydrates, and 3g of protein. Please remember that these values are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredient brands and portion sizes.