Maple Walnut Biscotti

Maple Walnut Biscotti Recipe - Italian Cuisine

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 20

Introduction

Maple Walnut Biscotti is a delicious and crunchy Italian cookie that is perfect for dipping in coffee or tea. The combination of sweet maple syrup and crunchy walnuts makes these biscotti a favorite treat for any time of day.

History

Biscotti originated in Italy and were traditionally made as a long-lasting, dry cookie that could be stored for long periods of time. The word "biscotti" actually means "twice baked" in Italian, which refers to the process of baking the cookies twice to achieve their crunchy texture.

Ingredients

2 cups unbleached white flour
0.5 cup white cornmeal
1 tsp baking powder
0.25 tsp salt
2 eggs
0.5 cup pure maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
0.5 cup finely chopped walnuts

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Spray a cookie sheet with vegetable oil.
Sift together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
Lightly beat the eggs and add them to the flour mixture.
Stir in the maple syrup, vanilla, and walnuts, mixing just until the dough is smooth.
Using a rubber spatula and floured hands, scoop half of the dough out of the bowl and onto one side of the baking sheet.
Shape the dough into a long log.
Make a second log on the other side of the baking tray with the remaining dough.
Space the logs at least 6 inches apart.
Bake for 30 minutes, until the top of each biscotti log is firm.
Remove them with a long spatula to a wire rack and cool for 10–15 minutes.
Cut each log on a severe diagonal into about 20 inches thick slices and place them cut side down on the baking sheet.
Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for 15 minutes.

Variations

Substitute pecans or almonds for the walnuts for a different flavor.
Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the biscotti for a decadent touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to space the biscotti logs at least 6 inches apart on the baking sheet to allow for even baking.

- Use a sharp knife to cut the biscotti on a severe diagonal to create the classic biscotti shape.

- For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Maple Walnut Biscotti are perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. They also make a great gift when packaged in a decorative tin or box.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the biscotti logs twice ensures that they are crunchy and perfect for dipping.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use whole wheat flour in place of white flour for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

Maple Walnut Biscotti can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the biscotti on a decorative plate or platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Maple Walnut Biscotti pair well with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Maple Walnut Biscotti contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Maple Walnut Biscotti contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Maple Walnut Biscotti contains approximately 6 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Maple Walnut Biscotti contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Maple Walnut Biscotti are a good source of iron and calcium.

Alergens

Maple Walnut Biscotti contain eggs and nuts.

Summary

Maple Walnut Biscotti are a delicious treat that are relatively low in calories and fat. They are a good source of carbohydrates and provide a small amount of protein.

Summary

Maple Walnut Biscotti are a delicious and crunchy treat that are perfect for enjoying with a hot beverage. With their sweet maple flavor and crunchy walnuts, these biscotti are sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were a riot of red, orange, and gold, and the smell of wood smoke filled the air. I had gone for a walk in the woods behind my house, hoping to find some inspiration for my next culinary creation. As I wandered amongst the towering maple trees, I stumbled upon a small clearing where a lone tree stood, its branches heavy with ripe, plump walnuts.

I couldn't resist the urge to pick a few and take them home with me. As I walked back to my house, I thought about what I could make with these delicious nuts. That's when it hit me - maple walnut biscotti. I had never made biscotti before, but I had always loved the crunchy, twice-baked Italian cookie. And the combination of maple and walnuts sounded like the perfect fall treat.

When I got home, I immediately set to work in my cozy kitchen. I pulled out my trusty mixing bowls and measuring cups, and started gathering the ingredients I would need for the biscotti. Flour, sugar, baking powder, eggs, vanilla extract, and of course, the star of the show - maple syrup and walnuts.

I sifted the flour and baking powder together, then added the sugar and mixed it all together. In a separate bowl, I beat the eggs and vanilla until they were light and fluffy. Then, slowly but surely, I added the dry ingredients to the wet, stirring gently until a sticky dough formed.

Next, I chopped up the walnuts and folded them into the dough, along with a generous drizzle of maple syrup. The sweet, earthy aroma filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. I shaped the dough into two long logs and placed them on a baking sheet, then popped them into the oven to bake.

As the biscotti baked, I could hardly contain my excitement. The scent of maple and walnuts filled the house, mingling with the warm, cozy smell of cinnamon and cloves. When the timer finally went off, I pulled the biscotti out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing them into thick, crunchy slices.

The first bite was pure bliss. The biscotti was crisp and golden on the outside, with a tender, nutty crumb inside. The maple syrup lent a subtle sweetness, while the walnuts added a satisfying crunch. I savored each bite, enjoying the rich, warm flavors of fall in every mouthful.

I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special that day in the woods. The recipe for maple walnut biscotti had become a new favorite in my repertoire, and I couldn't wait to share it with my friends and family. It was a reminder of the simple joys of cooking, of the pleasure of creating something delicious from scratch.

And as I sat at my kitchen table, sipping a cup of hot tea and munching on a piece of biscotti, I felt a deep sense of contentment wash over me. The recipe may have come from a chance encounter in the woods, but the memories I had created around it would last a lifetime. And for that, I was truly grateful.