| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 35 mins | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 219 | 8.5g | 5.2g | 30.1g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 14.9g | 1.2g | 4.1g | 0.32g |
The familiar aroma of my Aniseed Myrtle Biscotti wafting from the kitchen is one of the many comforts I cherish from my California upbringing. Combining a variety of flavors from zesty citrus to the warm hues of finely ground Aniseed Myrtle, this rustic recipe nods to the fusion of health-consciousness and comfort echoing throughout my culinary creations. Every crunch of these fruit-filled biscuits can teleport me back to the sunny valleys where I was raised, reminiscing those golden afternoons spent baking with my mother.
Not Just a Biscotti, It’s a Health Booster
The Aniseed Myrtle Biscotti brings not only a delightful cascade of flavor but also delivers health benefits with every bite. The heroes of this culinary creation, aside from the zingy lemon zest and the aromatic Aniseed Myrtle, are the assorted dried fruits. These sweet nibbles, be it tart cranberries or succulent apricots, serve up a punch of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber that help maintain a healthy heart and provide a natural energy boost. Not to mention, the inclusion of eggs and unsalted butter, ensuring you get a good dose of protein and beneficial fats.
The Perfect Pairings
For those fans of nostalgic comfort foods like me, these biscotti are best served alongside a warm beverage – a rich cup of coffee, perhaps (try Pour-over coffee), or even a relaxing herbal tea. The hard yet slightly crumbly texture compliments the smooth, hot brew, making for an afternoon well spent.
When it comes to meals, the Aniseed Myrtle Biscotti can also work as an unexpected yet delightful partner to savory dishes. Those who revel in exploration can try accompanying it with a vibrant, fresh salad or even a dish of roasted vegetables. And if you’re looking to add an extra layer of texture and flavor, consider crumbling these biscotti as a topping over your creamy pasta, or serving it as a crouton-alternative for your favorite soup.
Inspired by the multi-cultured culinary landscape of the West Coast and having a hint of classic American comfort, the Aniseed Myrtle Biscotti is my culinary homage to my heritage and upbringing. Each biscotti carries the essence of home, the joy of baking, and a testament to health-forward cuisine inspired by the wine country. I hope it brings as much joy to you as it does to me and my three adopted children who can’t get enough of these delightful biscuits.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Baking Powder
- 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon Aniseed Myrtle, finely ground
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- Zest of 1 Lemon
- 3/4 cup of assorted Dried Fruit (e.g., cranberries, raisins, apricots, chopped)
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Step Two
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Set this mixture aside for later.
Step Three
In a large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar and softened unsalted butter until they become creamy. Mix in the finely ground aniseed myrtle until thoroughly combined.
Step Four
Next, add the eggs one at a time into the butter and sugar mixture, ensuring each egg is well incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
Step Five
Gradually add your flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a dough forms. Gently fold in the assorted dried fruit into the dough.
Step Six
Divide the dough in half and shape each into a log approximately 10 inches long. Place these logs onto the prepared baking tray.
Step Seven
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes or until the logs are lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes.
Step Eight
Once cool enough to handle, carefully slice the logs diagonally into 1/2 inch thick slices. Arrange the slices back on the baking tray, cut side down.
Step Nine
Return the tray to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the biscotti are golden and crispy. Allow the biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy your Aniseed Myrtle Biscotti!
