This beloved family recipe is graciously shared by my mother-in-law, Louise. It was her grandmother’s recipe, passed down and about a century old. Typically the traditional Italian recipe called for Anise or Anissetta, but in this case we decided to adapt it to incorporate more of our favorite flavor, vanilla.

Imagine making this recipe as a gift, with homemade Madagascar vanilla for a personal touch, and wrapped up in pretty dish - making it a thoughtful and delicious present!  

Traditional Italian Biscotti con Vaniglia

Ingredients

3 Eggs

1/2 Cup Shortening

3/4 Cup Sugar

1/2 Cup Milk

1/2 Tsp Salt

1 Tbs Pure Madagascar Vanilla Extract

3 Cups Flour

2 Tsp Baking Powder

350 degree, 30 mins

Broiler, 1 min

Step 1: Combine the eggs, shortening, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl for the electric mixer, (you can also use a hand-held mixer.) and blend until well incorporated.

Step 2: In a separate bowl mix flour, salt, and baking powder.

Step 3: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the mixing bowl, on the low setting, making sure to scrape the sides with a spatula as everything combines.

Step 4: Remove dough from bowl and place it on a large cutting board prepared with flour to keep from sticking. With floured hands, form the dough into a mound, then cut in half.

Step 5: Transfer each side to a greased baking sheet and shape into a log about 12 inches in length, making sure to leave room between the two as they will expand while baking. Bake for about 30 minutes depending on your oven.

Step 6: Remove from over once it turns a golden color, you may notice some cracking up the center of each – this is not a problem.

Step 7: Slice Biscotti roughly a 1/2 inch wide on a diagonal. Turn each slice on their side and place back in the oven under the broiler for no longer than a minute. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Once cooled, you may enjoy your authentic homemade Biscotti. I prefer to have mine alongside a fresh brewed cup of coffee. There are also endless options to dress up your Biscotti, especially if preparing this for the holidays or a special occasion or event. Melted chocolate drizzled on top is a delicious way to add your own personal touch. Adding apricots, cherries, hazelnuts, or chocolate chips to the batter, is also a fun option based on your preferences.