Ah, benvenuti, my dear friends! Today, I am thrilled to share with you a recipe that is very close to my heart – my family’s Fig and Walnut Biscotti. These delightful cookies have been a staple at our Christmas gatherings for generations, and I am honored to pass this tradition on to you. This recipe will make about 30-35 biscotti, perfect for sharing with loved ones during the festive season. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s begin our baking journey together. Buon Natale!
Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour: 2 1/4 cups (for that perfect biscotti texture)
- Baking powder: 1 1/2 teaspoons (to give them a nice lift)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (just a pinch to balance the sweetness)
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, at room temperature (for richness)
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup (for the sweet melody)
- Eggs: 2 large (they bind our ingredients like family)
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (for a hint of warmth)
- Dried figs: 1 cup, chopped (the star of our show)
- Walnuts: 3/4 cup, chopped (for a delightful crunch)
- Zest of 1 orange: (my secret for a festive aroma)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a larger bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is where love begins.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest. Ah, the aroma of Christmas!
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped figs and walnuts. The dough will be sticky, but that’s part of its charm.
Step 2: Shaping and Baking
- Divide the dough in half. On a floured surface, shape each half into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide.
- Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet and press down slightly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Patience, my friends, is key.
- Remove from the oven, but keep it on. Let the logs cool for about 10 minutes.
Step 3: The Art of Slicing
- Transfer the logs to a cutting board. Using a serrated knife, cut diagonally into 1/2-inch slices.
- Place the slices back on the baking sheet, cut side down.
Step 4: The Second Bake
- Bake for another 8-10 minutes on each side, until they are golden and crisp. This second bake is what gives biscotti their signature crunch.
Step 5: Serving and Storing
- Let the biscotti cool completely. They can be enjoyed as is, or dipped in melted chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Store in an airtight container. They keep well, making them perfect for gifting.
A Personal Touch:
Every time I chop the figs and walnuts, I’m reminded of my Nonna. She used to say, “In every piece of this biscotti, there’s a story of our family.” I encourage you to add your own story to these cookies. Maybe it’s a special spice or a unique way of serving them. Let your creativity flow!
Remember, baking is not just about following a recipe; it’s about pouring your heart into what you create. These biscotti are more than just cookies; they are a celebration of family, tradition, and the joy of Christmas.
Buon Natale e felice cottura! (Merry Christmas and happy baking!)