January 22, 2011

Chocolate/Orange and Almond Biscotti

I've always wanted to make biscotti. It's like a cookie, only better. Not only can they be chocolatey and sweet, but they are totally appropriate and preferred at breakfast!

For my very first recipe, I decided to make a chocolate/orange and almond biscotti.  I found the recipe via Food Network and tweaked it to my liking. Instead of using almond extract, I used orange extract. I just love the combined flavors or chocolate and orange - so sweet and tangy!

Here's the recipe:

2 1/4 cups flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 2/3 cup sugar
1 tsp. baking powder
3 large eggs
3 large egg yolks
1 T almond extract (I used orange)
3/4 cup almonds
1/2 cup chocolate chips (I opted not to use)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Stir together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar and baking powder. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks and extract. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry. Stir in the almonds and optional chocolate chips.

Roll the dough into 3 logs (10 x 2 inches) and place on a baking sheet. *I used non-stick cooking spray, but you could use parchment paper in its place* Bake the dough for 20 minutes. The dough will be firm on the outside and still a bit gooey on the inside. Let it cool for 5 minutes.



Lower the oven temperature to 300 degrees

Cut the dough (on a diagonal) into 1/2" thick slices and place back on the baking sheet. Bake for another 20 minutes or until the biscotti is crispy. Place the finished product onto a cooling rack, brew some coffee and enjoy!!

I really loved the texture of the biscotti. It was crispy enough to not fall apart when dunked in a cup of coffee yet chewy enough to eat on its own! So yummy.



Try it out and let me know what you think!!

January 21, 2011

Go Time

My first foodie blog. I finally caved.

I love to bake - and cook - and it's time to share that love! Hence, this blog. Each week I will make a goodie - either something I've already made before and want to share or something new that I want to try! I'll (gladly) try it and then share it with you. I'd love to see your feedback and take suggestions for my next baking adventure.

Stay tuned!