Holiday Cantucini

I always start planning holiday cookies weeks in advance as I give them out as gifts. This year Cantucini are my cookie of choice. Cantucini comes from the Tuscany region of Italy and is a type of biscotti. I know many people are afraid of making biscotti, which literally tranlastes as twice baked, but don't be it is so easy.


This recipe is one I personally treasure. I was lucky enough to live and work in Italy in 2010 and was handed this recipe from the Lady I worked for. Think about making Cantucini for the holidays, you won't regret it. They are great dipped in coffee, or dessert wine.

Prep Time - 15 minutes.
Cooking Time - 30 minutes.
Makes - 40.


Ingredients:
100g almonds, chopped
225g plain flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
175g caster sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
grated zest of a large orange



Method:

1. Dry fry the hazelnuts until lightly toasted. Preheat the over to gas mark 6.
2. Sieve the flour and baking powder into a large bowl and blend in the sugar. Make a well in the centre and tip in the egg, vanilla extract, orange zest, and hazelnuts. Mix them with a fork and then use your hands to draw the dough together. Knead slightly; add more flour if the dough seems a little wet.
3. Divide the mixture into two and shape into logs. Lay on a baking sheet and cook for 20-25 minutes.
4. Slice the logs whilst still warm. Put the slices back on a baking tray and return to the oven for 5 mins.