Blueberry and Orange Biscotti are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the zesty flavor of oranges with the sweet burst of blueberries. This crunchy Italian cookie is not only delicious but is also perfect for dunking in coffee or tea. Imagine sitting back with a warm cup while enjoying these crunchy delights—they’re truly the perfect snack for any time of day.
What You’ll Need for Blueberry and Orange Biscotti
Here’s what you need to gather to make these tasty treats:
- 115 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon orange extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 340 g (2 3/4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 170 g (1 3/4 cups) dried sweetened blueberries
How to Make Blueberry and Orange Biscotti
Making these delightful cookies is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to whip up a batch yourself:
- Preheat your oven to 165°C (330°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer. Add in the eggs, orange zest, orange extract, and almond extract, mixing until everything is well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a stiff dough forms. Once the dough is ready, gently fold in the dried blueberries.
- Shape the dough into a ball, then divide it in half. Roll each half into a log about 12 inches long and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the logs for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, slice the logs diagonally into pieces about 1 cm thick. Arrange the slices back on the baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for an additional 7 minutes until they are crispy and lightly browned.
Serve & Enjoy Blueberry and Orange Biscotti
These biscotti are perfect for any occasion! Serve them on a platter with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack. They also make for a heartwarming gift, especially when placed in a decorative tin or box. For a luxurious touch, try pairing them with fresh whipped cream or a side of citrus-infused yogurt. Your guests will love the combination of flavors!
Expert Tips for Blueberry and Orange Biscotti
- Storage: To keep your biscotti fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to two weeks!
- Cooking Time: All ovens are different, so keep an eye on your biscotti during the second bake. You want them to be golden but not too dark.
- Customize the Flavors: Feel free to mix things up! You can use different dried fruits like cranberries or apricots, or add nuts such as almonds or walnuts for extra crunch.
Blueberry and Orange Biscotti FAQs
Can I use fresh blueberries instead of dried?
Fresh blueberries will add too much moisture to the dough, so it’s best to stick with dried sweetened blueberries for this recipe.
How can I make these biscotti gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check for the right baking instructions on the flour package.
Can I freeze biscotti?
Absolutely! Biscotti freeze well. Just place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. You can defrost them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Try your hand at making these tasty Blueberry and Orange Biscotti! They’re not just a treat but a wonderful way to brighten your day or impress your guests. Enjoy every crunchy bite!