Crunchy Anise Biscotti with a Hint of Licorice

If you’re looking for a deliciously crunchy and aromatic treat, look no further than these Crunchy Anise Biscotti. This Italian classic is made with a delicate anise flavor that brings out hints of licorice in every bite, making it a perfect pairing for coffee, tea, or even a dessert wine. Biscotti, which means “twice-baked” in Italian, are known for their crisp texture and ability to hold up well when dunked into a warm drink. These biscotti are made with simple ingredients and are easy to prepare, resulting in a crunchy, flavorful treat that’s perfect for snacking or gifting.

The star ingredient, anise extract, gives these biscotti a unique flavor profile that is slightly sweet with a distinct licorice taste. While optional, anise seeds can be added for extra texture and a more intense flavor. The dough is shaped into logs, baked, sliced, and then baked again, giving the biscotti their signature crispiness. Whether you’re enjoying them on a cozy morning with your coffee or sharing them with loved ones, these biscotti will become a go-to recipe in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crunchy and Crisp Texture

The twice-baked process results in biscotti that are perfectly crunchy—ideal for dunking into coffee or tea. They’re the ultimate snack for any time of day.

2. Unique Anise Flavor

Anise extract adds a warm, licorice-like flavor to the biscotti, which is subtle yet aromatic. It’s a flavor that stands out without being overpowering, making it a perfect treat for fans of anise.

3. Simple Ingredients, Easy to Make

With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of these delicious biscotti in under an hour. No complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients!

4. Perfect for Gifting

These biscotti make an excellent homemade gift. Their long shelf life and charming crunch make them a wonderful option for gift baskets, holiday exchanges, or any occasion where you want to share a homemade treat.

5. Customizable

While this recipe calls for anise, you can adjust the flavor profile by adding different spices like cinnamon or almond extract, or even chocolate chips for extra richness.

Ingredients

• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon anise extract
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon anise seeds (optional)

Variations

1. Add Chocolate Chips

For a richer, sweeter biscotti, fold in 1/2 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the dough. Chocolate and anise make a surprising yet delightful combination.

2. Almond Biscotti

Swap the anise extract for almond extract and add 1/2 cup of slivered almonds to the dough for a classic almond biscotti flavor.

3. Citrus Zest

Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a fresh, citrusy twist that complements the warm spices of the anise.

4. Dried Fruit

Mix in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, raisins, or apricots for a sweet and chewy contrast to the crunchy biscotti.

5. Make it Gluten-Free

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour to make these biscotti suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the melted butter and anise extract, mixing well until everything is incorporated.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. If using anise seeds, fold them in at this stage.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Divide the dough in half. On the prepared baking sheet, shape each half into a log about 10 inches long and 2 inches wide. Make sure the logs are evenly shaped for even baking.

Step 5: Bake the First Time

Bake the logs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are firm to the touch and lightly golden. Remove them from the oven and allow to cool for about 10 minutes. This will make slicing easier.

Step 6: Slice and Bake Again

Using a sharp knife, slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Place the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced apart to allow air circulation during the second bake.

Step 7: Bake the Second Time

Return the biscotti to the oven and bake for another 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the biscotti are dry, golden, and crisp. They should be firm and crunchy when done.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the biscotti cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, they’re ready to be enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or your favorite beverage.

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Don’t Overmix the Dough: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough biscotti.
2. Slice with a Sharp Knife: Use a serrated knife to slice the biscotti. This helps create clean cuts without crumbling the delicate dough.
3. Bake Until Crisp: Biscotti should be firm to the touch and golden at the edges. Don’t rush the second baking step, as it’s what gives the biscotti their signature crunch.
4. Cool Completely: Allow the biscotti to cool completely before serving to ensure the crunch and flavor fully develop.
5. Customize the Flavors: Experiment with different extracts, nuts, or dried fruits to make these biscotti your own. The anise flavor can easily be swapped out for almond, vanilla, or even a touch of lemon zest.

How to Serve

Biscotti are traditionally served with coffee, tea, or a dessert wine like Vin Santo. Their dry, crunchy texture makes them perfect for dipping into hot drinks, allowing them to absorb some of the liquid while maintaining their crispness. They can also be enjoyed as an afternoon snack or added to a dessert platter for a light, flavorful treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the cooled biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Their crunchy texture will hold up well, making them a great option for long-term snacking.

Freezing

To freeze biscotti, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. Then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.

Reheating

To refresh your biscotti, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. This will help restore their crisp texture, especially if they’ve been stored for a while.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter. Just be sure to reduce the amount of salt added to the dough to avoid making the biscotti too salty.

2. How can I make my biscotti less hard?

Biscotti are meant to be crunchy, but if you prefer a softer texture, reduce the second baking time by a few minutes. This will result in a slightly softer bite.

3. Can I substitute the anise extract with another flavor?

Absolutely! You can use almond, vanilla, or lemon extract instead of anise for a different flavor profile.

4. Can I add chocolate chips to these biscotti?

Yes! You can fold in chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the anise flavor. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best.

5. How do I prevent the biscotti from spreading too much during baking?

Ensure the dough is firm enough before shaping the logs. If the dough is too soft, chill it for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to handle.

6. Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly denser and more rustic texture.

7. How long should I cool the logs before slicing them?

Let the logs cool for about 10 minutes before slicing to ensure they hold their shape without falling apart.

8. Can I make this recipe without the anise seeds?

Yes, you can skip the anise seeds altogether if you prefer a more subtle flavor. The extract will still provide the signature anise taste.

9. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Be sure to check for any specific substitutions or adjustments recommended for the blend you are using.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double this recipe. Just be sure to divide the dough into two logs and bake as

instructed, adjusting the baking time slightly if needed.

Conclusion

These Crunchy Anise Biscotti are the perfect combination of crisp, lightly sweet, and full of aromatic anise flavor. Whether you enjoy them with a warm drink or gift them to friends and family, these biscotti will surely become a favorite. With their easy preparation, delicious crunch, and endless customization options, this recipe is a must-try for any biscotti lover. Enjoy the timeless flavors of Italy with every bite!

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