These authentic Italian cantucci biscotti represent centuries of Tuscan baking tradition, combining the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds with the tart sweetness of dried cranberries. Through the classic twice-baking method, these cookies develop their signature crispy texture that makes them perfect for dunking in coffee, wine, or tea. The addition of bright lemon zest and a golden brown sugar coating creates a sophisticated flavor profile that transforms simple ingredients into an elegant treat worthy of the finest Italian cafés.
Ingredients
- 340g all-purpose flour (2¾ cups / 12 oz)
- 300g granulated sugar (1½ cups / 10.6 oz)
- 200g skin-on almonds (1¾ cups / 7 oz)
- 100g dried cranberries (1 cup / 3.5 oz)
- 2 large eggs
- 7g baking powder (1½ teaspoons / 0.25 oz)
- Zest of 1 organic lemon
- 3 tablespoons whole milk (45ml / 1.5 fl oz)
- 1 beaten egg for brushing
- Brown sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the almonds: Roughly chop the skin-on almonds into chunky pieces, leaving some larger pieces for texture and visual appeal.
- Sift dry ingredients: Sift the flour and baking powder together twice to ensure even distribution and eliminate lumps.
- Create flour well: On a clean work surface, pour the sifted flour mixture and create a volcano-shaped well in the center.
- Add wet ingredients: Place the eggs, granulated sugar, milk, and fresh lemon zest into the center of the flour well.
- Begin mixing: Using a fork or your fingers, gradually incorporate the flour into the wet ingredients, starting from the inner walls of the well.
- Add mix-ins: When the dough begins to come together, add the chopped almonds and dried cranberries, working them in evenly throughout the mixture.
- Knead the dough: Work the mixture vigorously with your hands until it forms a cohesive, slightly sticky ball of dough that holds together well.
- Preheat and prepare: Heat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the logs: Divide the dough into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide, spacing them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Apply finishing touches: Brush the tops of each log with beaten egg, then sprinkle generously with brown sugar for extra flavor and golden color.
- First bake: Bake for approximately 30 minutes, until the logs are golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Cool and slice: Remove from oven but keep it heated. Let logs cool for 10 minutes until they’re comfortable to handle, then slice diagonally with a sharp serrated knife into ¾-inch thick pieces.
- Second bake: Arrange the sliced biscotti cut-side down on the same baking sheet and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes to achieve the characteristic crispy texture.
- Final cooling: Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Time and Serving Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
First Bake: 30 minutes
Second Bake: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Makes: 36-40 biscotti
Calories per biscotto: Approximately 125 calories
Nutrition highlights: High in protein and healthy fats from almonds, antioxidants from cranberries, vitamin C from lemon zest, complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
Why These Cranberry Almond Biscotti Are Perfect for You
These traditional Italian biscotti offer an exceptional combination of taste, nutrition, and longevity that makes them ideal for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions. The twice-baking process creates their signature texture while also extending their shelf life naturally, making them perfect for gift-giving or meal prep.
Almonds provide substantial amounts of protein, healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and magnesium, supporting heart health and providing sustained energy. The skin-on almonds retain additional fiber and antioxidants that are often lost when almonds are blanched, maximizing their nutritional value.
Dried cranberries contribute powerful antioxidants, particularly proanthocyanidins, which support urinary tract health and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. Their natural tartness balances the sweetness perfectly while adding chewy texture contrast to the crunchy almonds.
The traditional twice-baking method not only creates the perfect texture for dunking in beverages but also reduces moisture content, making these cookies naturally long-lasting without preservatives. Fresh lemon zest adds vitamin C and bright citrus oils that enhance both flavor and nutritional value.
These biscotti embody the Italian philosophy of transforming simple, quality ingredients into something extraordinary through time-honored techniques, making them a meaningful addition to your baking repertoire that connects you to generations of Italian baking tradition.