Biscotti is a traditional Italian sweet originating from the Tuscany region, known for its crunchy texture and delicate flavor. This type of elongated, dry cookie has been appreciated for centuries for its ability to be preserved for long periods, which made it the ideal companion for coffee or sweet wine called vin santo. In several Latin American countries, although it is mainly recognized as "biscotti" due to its global popularity, it is sometimes called "Italian cookies" or simply "Italian biscotti," referencing its European origin. The variety that includes hazelnuts and orange adds a citrus touch and a more intense flavor, combining the best of two highly valued ingredients in baking.
How to Make Hazelnut and Orange Biscotti
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Lightly grease the baking sheets.
Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
Beat the oil, orange zest, orange juice, eggs, and sugar in a large bowl until smooth.
At low speed, incorporate the flour mixture into the orange mixture.
Add the toasted hazelnuts.
Divide the dough into two equal parts.
Shape each half into a log approximately 10 x 1 1/2 inches on a floured work surface.
Place the logs on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for approximately 30 minutes.
Cool on the baking sheets on wire racks for 10 minutes.
Cut into 1/2-inch thick diagonal slices.
Place the slices back on the baking sheets.
Bake for 10 minutes.
Remove the baking sheets from the oven.
Flip the biscotti.
Bake for another 10 minutes.
Remove the biscotti from the baking sheets and place them on wire racks to cool.
For the chocolate glaze, combine the semi-sweet chocolate and vegetable shortening in a small saucepan.
Melt over low heat, stirring frequently, until smooth.
Let it cool slightly.
Dip the cooled biscotti into the chocolate mixture.
Cool on a wire rack for the glaze to solidify.