Meyer Lemon Almond Biscotti
Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes
Delight in the zesty flavor of Meyer lemons paired with crunchy almonds in this elegant biscotti recipe.
Meyer Lemon Almond Biscotti are the perfect treat for any occasion. Their unique citrus flavor and satisfying crunch make them a favorite among cookie lovers.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright and refreshing Meyer lemon flavor
- Crunchy texture with a nutty almond finish
- Perfect for dipping into coffee or tea
- Easy to make and store for later enjoyment
The Perfect Pairing of Flavors
Meyer lemons are often regarded as a culinary gem due to their unique flavor profile. They are sweeter and less acidic than regular lemons, bringing a delightful brightness to baked goods. When paired with the rich, nutty taste of almonds, these biscotti create an exquisite balance of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. The zest of the Meyer lemon infuses the dough with a refreshing aroma, making every bite an experience to savor.
Incorporating lemon zest into your recipes is not only about enhancing taste; it also adds a depth of fragrance that elevates the whole dish. This biscotti recipe captures that essence, ensuring that the citrus notes shine through. Whether served alongside your morning coffee or as a sweet treat in the afternoon, the combination of Meyer lemon and almonds in this biscotti is undeniably sophisticated.
Biscotti: A Versatile Snack
Biscotti, originating from Italy, are known for their hard, crunchy texture, which makes them perfect for dipping. This versatility allows them to be enjoyed in various settings, from casual coffee breaks to elegant tea parties. The delightful crunch of the Meyer Lemon Almond Biscotti complements hot beverages beautifully, softening just enough to enhance the flavors without losing their structure.
These biscotti can also be customized to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different nuts or spices, such as adding a touch of cinnamon or swapping almonds for walnuts. They also make a fantastic gift option; simply package them in a decorative box or jar, and you have a thoughtful, homemade present that friends and family will appreciate.
Storing and Enjoying Your Biscotti
One of the best aspects of biscotti is their shelf life. Properly stored, they can last for several weeks, making them an ideal snack to prepare in advance. To keep your Meyer Lemon Almond Biscotti fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be frozen for longer preservation, ensuring you always have a delightful treat on hand.
When it comes time to enjoy your biscotti, consider pairing them with your favorite beverages. They are particularly delicious when dipped into coffee, tea, or even a glass of dessert wine. The crunchy texture and zesty flavor create a delightful contrast to the warmth of the drink, making each bite a moment to cherish.
Ingredients
Biscotti Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- Zest of 1 Meyer lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped before starting.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the lemon zest, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the sliced almonds.
Shape the Dough
Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long on the prepared baking sheet.
First Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
Slice and Second Bake
Slice the logs diagonally into 1/2 inch thick pieces. Place the slices back on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until crisp.
Cool and Serve
Allow the biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Meyer Lemon Almond Biscotti with a cup of coffee or tea!
Tips for Perfect Biscotti
To achieve the perfect biscotti, it's essential to monitor the baking time closely. Each oven is different, and slight variances in temperature can affect the final product. Keep an eye on the biscotti during the first bake; they should be lightly golden before cooling. Similarly, during the second bake, watch for crispness but avoid over-baking, which can lead to an overly hard texture.
Another tip is to slice the logs carefully while they are still warm, as this will yield cleaner edges. A serrated knife works best for slicing biscotti, allowing you to cut through the hard exterior without crumbling the cookie. For added flavor, consider toasting the almonds prior to mixing them into the dough; this will enhance their nutty taste and add another layer of richness to your biscotti.
Serving Suggestions
When serving your Meyer Lemon Almond Biscotti, presentation can elevate the experience. Arrange them on a beautiful platter with fresh fruit or a small bowl of lemon curd for dipping. This not only looks appealing but also enhances the citrus flavor profile of the biscotti.
For a festive touch, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the biscotti after they've cooled completely. This adds a sweet contrast to the zesty lemon and nutty almond flavors, making them even more irresistible. Whether you're hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet moment alone, these serving suggestions will make your biscotti even more delightful.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I substitute regular lemons for Meyer lemons?
Yes, you can use regular lemons, but the flavor will be slightly different.
→ How do I store leftover biscotti?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
→ Can I add chocolate to the biscotti?
Absolutely! You can dip them in melted chocolate or add chocolate chips to the dough.
→ Is it necessary to bake them twice?
Yes, the double baking gives them their signature crunch.
Meyer Lemon Almond Biscotti
Delight in the zesty flavor of Meyer lemons paired with crunchy almonds in this elegant biscotti recipe.
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Sweet Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 biscotti
What You'll Need
Biscotti Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- Zest of 1 Meyer lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the lemon zest, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the sliced almonds.
Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
Slice the logs diagonally into 1/2 inch thick pieces. Place the slices back on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until crisp.
Allow the biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 30mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g