Teresa's Recipes
Cantucci E Vin Santo
Indulge in the delightful crunch of Cantucci, also known as Biscotti di Prato, which hails from the picturesque Tuscan city of Prato. These traditional Italian almond biscuits are twice-baked to achieve a perfectly crunchy texture, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Traditionally enjoyed with a glass of Vin Santo, these biscuits offer a beautiful marriage of flavors—sweet, nutty, and aromatic. Perfect for dipping, Cantucci are not just a snack; they are a celebration of Italian culinary heritage.
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 cup, melted Unsalted butter
- 2 Large eggs
- 1 teaspoon Almond extract
- 1 cup, toasted Whole almonds
- for serving Vin Santo
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 24
- Dish Type: Dessert
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 4g
- Carbs: 12g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Sugar: 4g
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter, eggs, and almond extract together until smooth. Gradually incorporate this mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
- Gently fold in the toasted almonds, ensuring they are well distributed throughout the dough.
- Divide the dough into two equal halves. On a lightly floured surface, shape each half into a log approximately 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet, allowing space between them.
- Bake the logs in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are lightly browned and firm to the touch.
- Remove the logs from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
- Once cooled slightly, slice each log diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices using a serrated knife. Arrange the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake the biscotti for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they are crisp and golden brown. Let the biscotti cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Serve the cantucci with a small glass of Vin Santo for dipping. Enjoy the perfect balance of flavors as you savor each crunchy bite!
Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating chocolate chips or dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots into the dough.
- Make sure to toast the almonds beforehand for enhanced flavor and crunch.
- Store the biscotti in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.