This ginger almond biscotti recipe is a flavor-packed delight. It combines the richness of almonds with the spicy kick of ginger. This recipe is easy to follow, making it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced bakers. The result is a delectable biscotti with a crisp texture and a complex flavor profile that is sure to impress.
This recipe uses a few ingredients that might not be in every pantry. Fresh ginger, ground cloves, and allspice are essentials for this recipe. While ginger root is often available in the produce section of the supermarket, ground cloves and allspice can be found in the spice aisle. If you can't find them, they are readily available online.
Ginger Almond Biscotti Ingredients
Almonds: Almonds are the sole source of the crunch in these biscotti.
Sugar: Sugar provides the essential sweetness.
Butter: Butter lends a creamy, rich flavor to the biscotti.
Molasses: Molasses gives a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent, holding all the ingredients together.
Fresh ginger: Fresh ginger infuses a warm, spicy kick.
All purpose flour: All purpose flour forms the base of the biscotti.
Baking powder: Baking powder helps the biscotti rise and become light and crunchy.
Cinnamon and nutmeg: These spices give a warm, comforting flavor.
Ground cloves and allspice: These spices give a deep, spicy note to compliment the ginger.
One reader, Diego Pappas says:
This ginger almond biscotti recipe is a game-changer! The combination of ginger and almonds creates a delightful flavor, and the biscotti has the perfect crunch. It's a hit with my family and friends. I love how easy it is to make and how impressive it looks. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making Ginger Almond Biscotti
How to bake the almonds: Spread the almonds out on a sheet pan and bake them at 350°F for 10 minutes. Let them cool, then roughly chop.
How to make the biscotti dough base: Beat together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy (about 3 to 4 minutes). Add the molasses and beat for an additional minute. Add eggs one at a time, beating for 1 minute after each addition. Mix in the minced ginger.
How to mix in the dry ingredients and the almonds: Whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, and allspice. Add the flour mixture into the butter and eggs mixture, one third at a time. Stir in the almonds.
How to refrigerate the dough: Refrigerate the dough for 1 hour.
How to shape into long rectangles: Turn the dough out onto a well-floured board and divide it in half. With floured hands, shape it into long rectangles about 10-12 inches long, 2 1/2 inches wide, and 1/2 inch high. Transfer to a parchment or silicone-lined baking sheet.
How to bake: Bake at 350°F until golden brown and firm to the touch in the center, 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and let stand until cool enough to handle.
How to cut diagonally: Transfer the rectangles to a cutting board. Using a serrated bread knife, cut the rectangles on the diagonal into 1/2-inch-thick slices.
How to bake again: Return the pieces cut side down to the baking sheet. Re-bake for 15-18 minutes, turning the biscotti over halfway through baking.
How to cool and store: Cool on a wire rack and store in an airtight container.
How To Make Ginger Almond Biscotti
Follow this foolproof recipe for making excellent ginger almond biscotti. A splendid combination of ginger, cinnamon, and toasted almonds, delish!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1cupalmonds,blanched slivered
- ¾cupsugar
- ½cupbutter
- ½cupmolasses
- 3large eggs
- ¼cupfresh ginger,minced
- 3cupsall purpose flour
- 1tspbaking powder
- 1tspcinnamon and nutmeg
- ½tspeach ground cloves and all spice
Instructions
-
Spread the almonds out on a sheet pan and bake them at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes. Let cool, then roughly chop.
-
Beat together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy for about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the molasses and beat a minute more. Add eggs one at a time, beating for 1 minute after each addition. Mix in the minced ginger.
-
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, and allspice. Add the flour mixture into the butter and eggs mixture, one-third at a time. Stir in the almonds.
-
Refrigerate the dough for 1 hour.
-
Turn the dough out onto a well-floured board, and divide in half. With floured hands, shape into long rectangles for about 10 to 12 inches long, 2½ inches wide, and ½-inch high.
-
Transfer to a parchment or silicone-lined baking sheet.
-
Bake at 350 degrees F until golden brown and firm to the touch in the center for 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from oven, and let stand until cool enough to handle.
-
Transfer the rectangles to a cutting board. Using a serrated bread knife, cut the rectangles on the diagonal into ½ -inch thick slices.
-
Return pieces cut side down to baking sheet. Re-bake for 15 to 18 minutes, turning the biscotti over halfway through baking. Cool on the wire rack. Store in an airtight container.
Nutrition
- Calories: 120.43kcal
- Fat: 5.08g
- Saturated Fat: 1.94g
- Trans Fat: 0.11g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.08g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.71g
- Carbohydrates: 16.78g
- Fiber: 0.86g
- Sugar: 7.89g
- Protein: 2.49g
- Cholesterol: 22.28mg
- Sodium: 18.58mg
- Calcium: 35.69mg
- Potassium: 119.25mg
- Iron: 0.96mg
- Vitamin A: 28.26µg
- Vitamin C: 0.05mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Biscotti
When chopping the almonds, try to keep the pieces fairly uniform in size. This will ensure that they bake evenly within the biscotti and provide a consistent texture throughout. Additionally, when slicing the baked biscotti loaf into individual pieces, use a gentle sawing motion with the serrated knife instead of pushing down forcefully. This will help to prevent the biscotti from crumbling and maintain their shape.
Time-Saving Tips for Ginger Almond Biscotti
Prep ahead: Prepare the almonds and ginger in advance to save time when making the biscotti dough.
Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least an hour will make it easier to shape and cut, resulting in more uniform biscotti.
Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly chop the almonds and ginger, saving time and effort.
Bake in batches: If your oven space allows, consider baking the biscotti in multiple batches to expedite the process.
Sharp knife: Use a sharp serrated knife to ensure clean and easy slicing of the biscotti dough.
Pre-portion the dough: Divide the dough into equal portions before shaping to ensure consistent sizes for even baking.
Double up: Bake the biscotti twice in the same oven session to save time and energy.
Substitute Ingredients For Ginger Almond Biscotti Recipe
almonds - Substitute with hazelnuts: Hazelnuts have a similar rich and nutty flavor that can complement the biscotti recipe well.
molasses - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and moisture to the biscotti, similar to molasses.
fresh ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger, providing a similar warm and spicy flavor.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture to the biscotti.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, adding a hint of coconut flavor to the biscotti.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and add moisture to the biscotti, serving as an egg replacement for a vegan option.
sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the biscotti, replacing the granulated sugar.
Presenting Ginger Almond Biscotti
Elevate the biscotti with a dusting of powdered sugar: Gently sift a fine layer of powdered sugar over the biscotti to add a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness.
Garnish with crystallized ginger: Finely chop crystallized ginger and sprinkle it over the biscotti to add a pop of flavor and a visually stunning element to the presentation.
Arrange on a bed of almond shavings: Create a delicate nest of lightly toasted almond shavings on the serving platter and carefully place the biscotti on top for a beautiful and inviting display.
Serve with a side of ginger-infused whipped cream: Present a dollop of freshly whipped cream infused with a hint of ginger alongside the biscotti to provide a luxurious and complementary accompaniment.
Drizzle with a molasses reduction: Create a thin, artistic drizzle of reduced molasses on the plate to add a touch of sophistication and a rich, deep flavor to the presentation.
Accompany with a scoop of almond gelato: Serve a small scoop of creamy almond gelato alongside the biscotti for a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures.
Present on a fine china platter: Showcase the biscotti on a beautiful, carefully chosen china platter to add a sense of refinement and elegance to the overall presentation.
Add a sprig of fresh mint: Place a small, vibrant sprig of fresh mint next to the biscotti for a burst of color and a refreshing aroma that complements the flavors of the dessert.
Essential Tools for Making Biscotti
Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used to chop, blend, puree, and mix ingredients. It's great for quickly chopping nuts or ginger for the biscotti recipe.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the dry and wet ingredients in the biscotti recipe. It allows for easy stirring and ensures that the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
Sheet pan: A sheet pan is used for baking the almonds in the oven. It provides a flat, even surface for toasting the almonds to perfection.
Serrated bread knife: A serrated bread knife is necessary for cutting the baked biscotti dough into slices. Its sharp, serrated edge allows for clean, even cuts without crushing the biscotti.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used to bake the biscotti. It provides a flat surface for the dough to bake evenly and ensures that the biscotti don't stick to the pan.
Wire rack: A wire rack is used for cooling the baked biscotti. It allows air to circulate around the biscotti, preventing them from becoming soggy as they cool.
Storing and Freezing Ginger Almond Biscotti
Once the biscotti have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. To maintain their crispness, place a piece of parchment paper between each layer of biscotti.
For longer storage, you can freeze the biscotti. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen biscotti, remove them from the freezer and let them come to room temperature while still wrapped. This will prevent any condensation from forming on the surface of the cookies, which can make them soggy.
If you find that the biscotti have lost some of their crispness after storing or freezing, you can refresh them by placing them on a baking sheet and heating them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until they have regained their crunch.
When storing or freezing, it's best to keep the ginger almond biscotti separate from other baked goods or cookies with strong odors, as the biscotti may absorb those flavors over time.
How To Reheat Leftover Biscotti
- The best way to reheat leftover ginger almond biscotti is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the biscotti on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crisp on the outside.
- Another option is to use a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the biscotti directly on the rack. Toast for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crisp.
- If you prefer a softer texture, you can wrap the biscotti in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 10-15 seconds. This method will soften the biscotti while still keeping them warm.
- For a quick and easy reheating method, you can also place the biscotti in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast them for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and slightly crisp.
- If you want to add a touch of extra flavor to your reheated biscotti, try drizzling them with a little melted chocolate or honey before serving. This will give them a delicious twist and make them feel like a fresh, new treat.
Interesting Fact About Ginger Almond Biscotti
The biscotti is a type of Italian almond biscuit that is twice-baked, making it very dry and ideal for dipping into coffee or wine. This recipe combines the warmth of ginger with the nuttiness of almonds, creating a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with a hot beverage. Biscotti has a long shelf life and can be stored in an airtight container for several weeks, making it a convenient and delicious snack to have on hand. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Rome, where it was a staple food for travelers and soldiers due to its long shelf life and durability.
Is Making Biscotti at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this ginger almond biscotti recipe is quite high. The main ingredients, such as almonds, ginger, and flour, are relatively affordable and can be found in most households. The recipe yields a large batch, making it suitable for a family of four. The approximate cost for the entire batch is around $10, making it a budget-friendly treat. In terms of flavor and versatility, this biscotti scores a solid 8. Its ability to be paired with various beverages and its long shelf life add to its appeal.
Is This Biscotti Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The ginger almond biscotti recipe is a delightful treat, but it does have some aspects that make it less than healthy. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's nutritional profile:
- High in sugar: With 3/4 cup of sugar and 1/2 cup of molasses, this recipe is quite high in added sugars.
- High in fat: The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of butter, which contributes to its high fat content.
- Refined flour: The use of all-purpose flour means the biscotti lack the beneficial fiber and nutrients found in whole grain flours.
- Nuts provide healthy fats: The inclusion of almonds is a positive aspect, as they offer healthy monounsaturated fats, protein, and fiber.
- Spices offer some benefits: Ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice provide some antioxidants and potential health benefits, but in small quantities.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the sugar content by using less sugar and molasses, or experiment with natural sweeteners like date paste or applesauce.
- Replace some or all of the butter with healthier alternatives like coconut oil or Greek yogurt.
- Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat pastry flour, spelt flour, or a gluten-free blend to increase fiber and nutrient content.
- Increase the amount of almonds or add other nutrient-dense ingredients like chia seeds, flaxseeds, or dried fruits (in moderation).
- Emphasize the spices, as they not only add flavor but also provide some health benefits.
Editor's Opinion on This Biscotti Recipe
This ginger almond biscotti recipe is a delightful blend of warm spices and crunchy almonds, perfect for pairing with a cup of coffee or tea. The addition of fresh ginger adds a zesty kick, while the molasses provides a rich depth of flavor. The double baking process ensures a satisfying crunch in every bite. This biscotti is a wonderful treat to enjoy as a dessert or a midday snack. The recipe is well-balanced and offers a delightful twist on the classic Italian biscotti.
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Why trust this Ginger Almond Biscotti Recipe:
This ginger almond biscotti recipe is a delightful treat that combines the warmth of ginger with the nuttiness of almonds. The use of fresh ginger adds a vibrant and aromatic flavor, while the inclusion of molasses provides a rich sweetness. The careful balance of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice creates a harmonious blend of spices. Additionally, the meticulous process of baking the almonds enhances their crunch and flavor. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe to elevate your biscotti experience.
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