Biscotti are crunchy Italian biscuits that are perfect for dipping in coffee or tea. They are also great as a gift or a treat for yourself. Biscotti come in many flavors and variations, but one of the most popular ones is the Mary Berry biscotti recipe. Mary Berry is a famous British baker and cookbook author who has been baking for over 60 years. She is known for her simple and delicious recipes that anyone can follow.
In this article, I will show you how to make Mary Berry biscotti with a complete step-by-step guide. You will learn how to prepare the ingredients, how to shape and bake the biscotti, and how to store them. You will also get some tips and tricks to make your biscotti even better.
Let’s get started!
What is Mary Berry Biscotti Recipe?
Mary Berry biscotti are crunchy Italian biscuits that are made with almonds, cranberries, and white chocolate chips. They are baked twice to achieve a crisp texture and a golden color. They are named after Mary Berry, a famous British baker and cookbook author who created this recipe.
Why You Love this Recipe
This Mary Berry biscotti recipe stands out for its simplicity and appeal, making it a delightful addition to your baking repertoire:
- Ease of Preparation: Crafted with straightforward ingredients and clear steps, this recipe is both accessible for beginners and enjoyable for seasoned bakers.
- Customizable Flavors: The versatility of this recipe allows you to get creative. Feel free to experiment with a variety of nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate types to create your unique version of biscotti.
- A Delightful Treat: Whether as a light dessert, a midday snack, or a companion to your coffee, these biscotti offer a satisfying crunch and balanced flavor that’s not overly sweet.
- Ideal for Sharing and Gifting: Their durability and delightful taste make these biscotti perfect for packaging as thoughtful gifts or for sharing during gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Biscotti
To make Mary Berry biscotti, you will need the following ingredients:
- 100 g (3 ½ oz) blanched almonds
- 250 g (9 oz) plain flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 175 g (6 oz) caster sugar
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 75 g (3 oz) dried cranberries
- 75 g (3 oz) white chocolate chips
Useful Equipment
You will also need a baking sheet, a large bowl, a wooden spoon, a sharp knife, and a wire rack.
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Biscotti
Follow these steps to make this recipe:
Step 1: Toast the almonds
The first step is to toast the almonds. This will give them a nice golden color and a nutty flavor. To toast the almonds, preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan, gas mark 4) and spread the almonds on a baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Transfer the almonds to a plate and let them cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
The next step is to mix the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Add the sugar and stir well. You can also add a pinch of salt if you like.
Step 3: Add the eggs and vanilla
The third step is to add the eggs and vanilla. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the eggs and vanilla. Use a wooden spoon to gradually mix the wet and dry ingredients together. You will get a sticky dough that is hard to work with.
Step 4: Add the cranberries, chocolate chips, and almonds
The fourth step is to add the cranberries, chocolate chips, and almonds. Sprinkle them over the dough and use your hands to knead them in. You may need to dust your hands with some flour to prevent the dough from sticking. Try to distribute the add-ins evenly throughout the dough.
Step 5: Shape the dough into logs
The fifth step is to shape the dough into logs. Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each one into a log about 30 cm (12 inches) long and 5 cm (2 inches) wide. Place the logs on a baking sheet lined with baking paper, leaving some space between them. Flatten the logs slightly with your fingers.
Step 6: Bake the logs
The sixth step is to bake the logs. Bake them in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden and firm to the touch. Remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet.
Step 7: Cut the logs into slices
The seventh step is to cut the logs into slices. Using a sharp knife, cut the logs diagonally into slices about 1 cm (½ inch) thick. You should get about 15 slices from each log. Arrange the slices on the same baking sheet, cut side up.
Step 8: Bake the slices
The eighth step is to bake the slices. Bake them in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes, turning them over halfway through, until crisp and golden. Transfer the slices to a wire rack and let them cool completely.
Step 9: Enjoy your biscotti
The final step is to enjoy your biscotti. You can eat them plain or dip them in melted white chocolate for extra indulgence. You can also serve them with coffee or tea, or pack them in a tin or a jar as a gift. Biscotti will be kept for up to two weeks in an airtight container at room temperature.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Biscotti?
While Mary Berry biscotti are a treat on their own, pairing them with the right beverage or dip can elevate your enjoyment:
- Classic Hot Beverages: Dip these biscotti in your favorite coffee or tea. The biscotti absorb the beverage, softening slightly and melding flavors for a comforting experience.
- Milk and Hot Chocolate: For a sweeter touch, try these biscotti with cold or warm milk, or indulge in them with a mug of rich, creamy hot chocolate.
- Elegant Alcoholic Pairings: Transform your biscotti into a sophisticated dessert by pairing them with a glass of wine, or add an Italian flair with a shot of amaretto or limoncello. The contrasting flavors create a delightful sensory experience.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Biscotti
Achieving the ideal Mary Berry biscotti involves a few key techniques that can significantly improve the end result:
- Toasting Almonds: Begin by toasting the almonds. This step is crucial as it intensifies the almonds’ flavor and adds a pleasant color, which enhances the overall taste and appearance of the biscotti.
- Gentle Mixing: Handle the dough with care. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, so mix just enough to combine the ingredients, using either a wooden spoon or your hands for a gentle touch.
- Shaping the Dough: Form the dough into uniform logs and press them down slightly. This ensures consistent baking and easier slicing, resulting in uniformly baked biscotti.
- Cooling Before Slicing: Allow the logs to cool for a short time before slicing. This patience helps to avoid crumbling and ensures clean cuts.
- Diagonal Slicing: Use a sharp knife to slice the logs diagonally. This technique creates elegantly thin and aesthetically pleasing biscotti.
- Crisp Baking: Bake the slices until they achieve a crisp texture and golden hue. Remember to flip them halfway through baking for uniform color and crispness.
Variations of Mary Berry Biscotti
Personalize your biscotti with these inspiring variations that allow you to play with different flavors and textures:
- Pistachio and Cranberry: Swap the almonds for pistachios, maintaining the cranberries and white chocolate chips. This variation offers a colorful and festive twist that’s perfect for holidays and celebrations.
- Hazelnut and Chocolate: Replace the almonds with hazelnuts and choose milk or dark chocolate chips instead of white chocolate. This combination creates a richly flavored biscotti with a deep nutty essence.
- Almond and Apricot: Stick with almonds but substitute cranberries for dried apricots. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate chips or omit them altogether. This version offers a delightful balance of nutty and fruity flavors.
How do I store Mary Berry Biscotti Leftovers?
Proper storage of Mary Berry biscotti is essential to maintain their crunch and flavor. Here are the best practices for storing your biscotti leftovers:
- Cool Before Storing: Ensure the biscotti are completely cooled to room temperature before storage. This prevents any moisture build-up, which could lead to sogginess or mold.
- Airtight Container Storage: Place the biscotti in an airtight container. Storing them at room temperature in this manner will keep them crisp and fresh for up to two weeks.
- Freezing for Extended Shelf Life: For longer storage, biscotti can be frozen for up to three months. Wrap them securely in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and then place them in a freezer bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature.
How do I reheat Mary Berry Biscotti Leftovers?
While Mary Berry biscotti are traditionally enjoyed at room temperature or cold, you might sometimes prefer them warm. Here’s how to gently reheat them:
- Oven Reheating: Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Arrange the biscotti on a baking sheet and bake for 5 to 10 minutes. This method warms them up while preserving their characteristic crunch.
- Microwave Reheating: If you’re short on time, place the biscotti on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10 to 15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat as they can quickly lose their crunch or burn. This method is best for achieving a slightly softer texture.
Nutrition value per biscuit (based on 4):
- Calories: 127 kcal
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturates: 0 g
- Carbs: 19 g
- Sugars: 8 g
- Fibre: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Salt: 0.15 g
Related Recipes to Try
- Mary Berry Caramel Shortbread
- Mary Berry Buttermilk SconesÂ
- Mary Berry Rock Cakes
- Mary Berry White Chocolate Blondies
- Mary Berry Tiramisu Trifle
- Mary Berry White Chocolate Blondies
- Mary Berry Coffee and Walnut Cake
- Mary Berry Lemon Curd
FAQs
Why are my biscotti not crunchy?
Biscotti are supposed to be crunchy, as they are baked twice to achieve a crisp texture. If your biscotti are not crunchy, it could be because you did not bake them long enough, or you sliced them too thickly. Try baking them for a few more minutes, or slicing them thinner, and see if that helps.
How do I prevent my biscotti from crumbling or breaking?
Biscotti can crumble or break if you cut them while they are still hot, or if you use a dull knife. To prevent this, let the logs cool slightly before cutting them, and use a sharp serrated knife to cut them diagonally. You can also dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry before each cut, to make it easier.
Can I use butter instead of oil in this recipe?
Yes, you can use butter instead of oil in this recipe, but you will need to adjust the amount and the method. You will need to use 100 g (3 ½ oz) of butter, and melt it before adding it to the eggs and vanilla. You will also need to chill the dough before shaping and baking it, as butter makes the dough softer and stickier than oil.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to this recipe, such as different nuts, fruits, chocolate, spices, or extracts. You can also dip the biscotti in melted chocolate or drizzle it over them for extra decadence. However, be careful not to add too much or too many ingredients, as they can affect the texture and shape of the biscotti.
Can I Make Mary Berry Biscotti Without Nuts for Allergy Reasons?
Yes, you can make Mary Berry biscotti without nuts. Simply omit the nuts from the recipe. You can replace them with an equal amount of dried fruit, such as additional cranberries or apricots, to maintain the texture and flavor balance.
How Can I Ensure My Biscotti Are Perfectly Crisp?
Answer: The key to perfectly crisp biscotti lies in the baking process. Bake the biscotti logs until they are firm and golden, then slice and bake the individual pieces until they are crisp and golden brown. Remember, biscotti harden as they cool, so they might still be slightly soft when you take them out of the oven. Allowing them to cool completely is essential for achieving that characteristic of crispness.
Is It Possible to Make Mary Berry Biscotti Vegan?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe to make vegan biscotti. Replace the eggs with a vegan egg substitute, such as flax eggs (a mixture of ground flaxseed and water). Also, ensure that the chocolate chips you use are vegan. You might need to adjust the quantities slightly to achieve the right dough consistency. Keep in mind that these substitutions may slightly alter the texture of the biscotti.
Conclusion
Mary Berry biscotti are crunchy Italian biscuits that are easy to make and delicious to eat. They are made with almonds, cranberries, and white chocolate chips, and baked twice to achieve a crisp texture and a golden color. They are perfect for dipping in coffee or tea, or for gifting and sharing. You can also vary the flavor and texture of your biscotti by using different nuts, fruits, and chocolate. You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, or freeze them for up to three months. I hope you enjoyed this article and learned how to make Mary Berry biscotti. If you have any questions or feedback, please leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you. Happy baking!