Hi, Lykkers! There's nothing more irresistible than the perfectly baked biscotti!

This cherished Italian cookie has captivated hearts for centuries. Its oblong shape and dry, crisp texture practically beg to be dunked into a steaming cup of coffee or tea, inviting you to savor each delightful bite.

So, what exactly is biscotti? The name "biscotti" is the plural form of the Italian word "biscotti", which means "twice-baked." This refers to its unique baking process: First, the dough is shaped into a log and baked. After cooling slightly, it's sliced into oblong cookies and baked again to achieve that irresistible crispy, dry texture.

Biscotti originated in the city of Prato in Italy's Tuscany region, where it was popularized in local monasteries during medieval times as its long shelf life made it an ideal food for traveling monks to carry. The ingredients of classic biscotti are simple - flour, sugar, eggs, butter or olive oil, and often nuts like almonds or pine nuts. Over time, variations with dried fruits, citrus zests, and other flavors emerged.

But no matter the variation, biscotti's crunchy, oblong shape and its perfect match with hot beverages are what make it so iconic. And it is worth trying to bake these timeless Italian treats at home! It's easier than you might think! Here's a terrific recipe for classic almond biscotti:

Ingredients:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 cup granulated sugar

- 1 teaspoon baking powder

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- 3 large eggs

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1 teaspoon almond extract

- 3/4 cup whole almonds

- 1 egg white, lightly beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Cover a baking sheet with a piece of parchment paper for easier cleanup.

2. In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.

3. Make a well in the center and add in the 3 eggs and extracts. Use a fork to lightly beat the eggs, then gradually incorporate the dry ingredients until a sticky dough forms.

4. Knead in the almonds until evenly distributed.

5. On the prepared baking sheet, form the dough into a log about 12 inches long, 5 inches wide, and 3/4 inches tall.

6. Brush the top with beaten egg white.

7. Bake for 25 minutes until lightly golden brown.

8. Take out from the oven and let set for 20 minutes.

9. Cut the log into 3/4-inch thick diagonal slices.

10. Place the slices cut-side down back on the baking sheet.

11. Bake for 15 more minutes, then flip the slices and bake for another 10 minutes until dried out and crispy.

12. Place the biscotti in a container that seals tightly to keep air out. By doing so, the biscotti will stay fresh and can be safely stored for up to two weeks without losing their quality.

Perfectly crisp, lightly sweet, with that unmistakable almond flavor - these biscotti are heavenly! For a taste of even more creative flavors crafted by professional bakers, here are two top-notch spots in New York you must try:

- Fortunato Brothers - Featuring biscotti in both classic and fun flavors like hazelnut cherry and lemon rosemary.

- Ferrara Bakery & Cafe - An iconic NYC bakery that's been around since 1892, offering its famed cannoli and other Italian desserts. Prices start at $20.

Whether you make them at home or pick something up from a renowned bakery, biscotti is one Italian tradition that deserves to be savored slowly with a steaming beverage in hand. With their crunchy texture and rich, comforting flavors, these twice-baked cookies are simply unbeatable for dunking delight.