Meyer Lemon Almond Biscotti
Highlighted under: Heavenly Dessert Creations
Enjoy the delightful combination of tangy Meyer lemon and crunchy almonds in these delicious biscotti. Perfect for dipping in coffee or tea.
Meyer Lemon Almond Biscotti are a delightful treat that combines the bright citrus flavor of Meyer lemons with the nutty crunch of almonds. These biscotti are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, making them an ideal snack for any time of the day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright and refreshing Meyer lemon flavor
- Crunchy texture with a nutty almond finish
- Perfect for gifting or serving at gatherings
The Perfect Biscotti for Any Occasion
Meyer Lemon Almond Biscotti is a delightful treat that suits various occasions, whether you’re hosting a cozy coffee gathering or looking for a unique gift. These biscotti embody the essence of spring with their bright lemon flavor and nutty almond crunch. They are an excellent choice for dessert tables, evening tea, or simply as a snack with your favorite hot beverage. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch, making them a favorite among both young and old.
What sets these biscotti apart is their dual baking process. Initially baked as logs, they are sliced and baked again to achieve that perfect crispness. This method not only enhances their texture but also allows the flavors to deepen, creating a harmonious balance between tangy citrus and rich almonds. Enjoying these biscotti with a warm cup of coffee or tea elevates the experience, making each moment a special occasion.
Tips for Making the Best Biscotti
When making Meyer Lemon Almond Biscotti, the quality of ingredients can significantly impact the final product. Opt for fresh Meyer lemons to maximize flavor; their unique sweetness and fragrance will shine through in the cookies. Additionally, using high-quality almonds will enhance the nutty flavor, making your biscotti even more delicious. Toasting the almonds lightly before adding them to the dough can also intensify their flavor, providing an extra layer of richness.
It's essential to monitor the baking times closely. The first bake should yield a golden color, while the second bake is crucial for achieving that desired crunch. If you prefer softer biscotti, reduce the second bake time slightly. Remember, biscotti will continue to harden as they cool, so take them out of the oven when they are just beginning to turn golden.
Storing and Serving Your Biscotti
Ingredients
For the Biscotti
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
For the Glaze (optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice
Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl to make the dough.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs and then mix in the Meyer lemon zest, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the sliced almonds.
Shape the Dough
Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake Twice
Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden. Remove from the oven, let cool for about 10 minutes, then slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
Second Bake
Place the sliced biscotti back on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until dry and crisp.
Prepare Glaze (optional)
If using, mix the powdered sugar with Meyer lemon juice to create a glaze. Drizzle over the cooled biscotti before serving.
Allow the biscotti to cool completely before serving.
Why Meyer Lemons?
Meyer lemons are a hybrid of regular lemons and mandarins, offering a sweeter, less acidic flavor profile. Their unique taste adds a refreshing twist to many recipes, making them an ideal choice for baking. In biscotti, the zest and juice infuse the dough with a vibrant citrus note that brightens each bite, ensuring your treats stand out from traditional lemon options.
In addition to their delightful flavor, Meyer lemons are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to your baking. Their season typically runs from late fall through early spring, so be sure to take advantage of their availability during this time to create your delicious biscotti.
Pairing Suggestions
Meyer Lemon Almond Biscotti pairs wonderfully with various beverages. A classic pairing is a rich espresso or a creamy latte, as the bold coffee flavors complement the citrus notes in the biscotti. For tea lovers, a light herbal tea or a citrus-infused blend can enhance the refreshing lemon flavor, making for a delightful afternoon treat.
If you're looking for a more adventurous pairing, consider serving these biscotti with a dessert wine or a sparkling beverage. The sweetness of the wine or the effervescence of sparkling water will beautifully balance the tartness of the Meyer lemon, creating a sophisticated tasting experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?
Yes, but the flavor will be slightly different as Meyer lemons are sweeter and less acidic.
→ How do I store biscotti?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
→ Can I add chocolate to the biscotti?
Absolutely! You can fold in chocolate chips or dip the finished biscotti in melted chocolate.
→ What can I serve with biscotti?
Biscotti pairs well with coffee, tea, or even a glass of dessert wine.
Meyer Lemon Almond Biscotti
Enjoy the delightful combination of tangy Meyer lemon and crunchy almonds in these delicious biscotti. Perfect for dipping in coffee or tea.
Created by: Tom
Recipe Type: Heavenly Dessert Creations
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 biscotti
What You'll Need
For the Biscotti
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
For the Glaze (optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the eggs and then mix in the Meyer lemon zest, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the sliced almonds.
Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden. Remove from the oven, let cool for about 10 minutes, then slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
Place the sliced biscotti back on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until dry and crisp.
If using, mix the powdered sugar with Meyer lemon juice to create a glaze. Drizzle over the cooled biscotti before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 3g