Orange and Anise Biscotti

Ingredients

Almonds

1 cup, roughly chopped

Anise seeds

1 tablespoon

Orange zest

1 tablespoon, freshly grated

Eggs

2 large

Granulated sugar

1 cup

Unsalted butter

1/2 cup, softened

Salt

1/2 teaspoon

Baking powder

1 teaspoon

All-purpose flour

2 1/2 cups

Instructions

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well mixed.
3. In a separate larger bowl, add the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream these ingredients together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Follow this by adding the freshly grated orange zest and anise seeds.
5. Slowly add the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Fold the roughly chopped almonds into the dough.
7. Divide the dough evenly into two portions. Shape each portion into a log about 12 inches long and place both onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten the logs slightly with your hand.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the logs are golden brown and firm to the touch.
9. Remove the biscotti logs from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
10. After cooling, use a serrated knife to slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices.
11. Place the sliced biscotti cut side down back onto the baking sheet. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the biscotti are crisp and golden brown.
12. Remove from the oven and let the biscotti cool completely before serving. Enjoy the delightful crunch and flavor!