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**Almond (pignoli) pieces:** 1 cup
**All-purpose flour:** 2 cups
Granulated sugar: **3/4 cup**
Baking powder: **1 teaspoon**
Salt: **1/4 teaspoon**
Egg: **2 large, lightly beaten**
Orange zest: **1 tablespoon**
Butter or margarine: **6 tablespoons**, softened
Anisette (optional): **1 1/2 teaspoons**
Egg white: **1 tablespoon**, for egg wash
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Steps
### Biscotti di Pignoli: A Traditional Italian Crunchy Treat
Biscotti di pignoli are traditional almond cookies from Italy that make a delightful addition to any baking repertoire. These crunchy, nutty biscuits pair well with coffee or tea and are perfect as a snack or dessert. Below, you'll find detailed steps to create your own biscotti di pignoli at home.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 cups (450g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted almonds, toasted and finely ground
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
#### Equipment:
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Large mixing bowl
- Parchment-lined baking sheets for cooling
- Fork or cookie scoop
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### Step-by-Step Guide:
#### 1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Toast almonds in a dry pan until golden brown, then let them cool completely.
#### 2. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour with 1 teaspoon baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Stir to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
#### 3. Combine Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together 1 egg, 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined.
#### 4. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients in the large mixing bowl.
- Stir just until moistened; do not overmix as this can result in tough cookies.
#### 5. Fold in Pignoli Nuts
- Carefully fold in the finely ground almonds into the batter using a spatula or wooden spoon.
#### 6. Shape and Bake Biscotti
- Use a cookie scoop to drop small mounds of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Gently press down on each mound with a fork to create an X pattern, which helps the cookies bake evenly.
- Bake for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
#### 7. Second Baking
- After cooling briefly, place the baking sheet back in the oven and reduce the heat to 300°F (150°C).
- Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Once done, allow the biscotti to cool on a wire rack before serving.
#### 8. Storing Biscotti
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
### Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
- Use different nuts like hazelnuts or walnuts if you prefer a varied texture.
- Experiment with adding dried fruits such as cherries or figs.
#### Conclusion
Biscotti di pignoli are not just delicious; they're also a wonderful way to appreciate traditional Italian baking techniques. With these steps, you can enjoy this crunchy, nutty treat right from your kitchen! Enjoy crafting and savoring these delightful biscuits with friends and family.