20 Apr 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 40 min
Ingredients:
1.50 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp rosemary
2 tbsp orange zest
2 red hot chili peppers
2 tbsp pistachio nuts
1 tbsp milk (1% fat)
Rosemary cantucci is a delightful Italian treat known for its crunchy texture and aromatic flavors. This version incorporates a unique blend of parmesan cheese, garlic, rosemary, and a hint of heat from red hot chili peppers, making it an exciting twist on the classic biscotti recipe. Perfect for pairing with a hot cup of coffee or as a standalone snack, these cantucci are sure to impress your taste buds.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose white wheat flour, grated Parmesan cheese, baking powder, and dried rosemary. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of the ingredients.
3. Prepare Garlic and Chili Peppers:
Mince the garlic cloves and finely chop the red hot chili peppers. If you prefer a milder heat, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the peppers before chopping.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
Add the minced garlic, chopped chili peppers, orange zest, and pistachio nuts to the dry ingredient mixture. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.
5. Add Milk:
Pour the tablespoon of milk (1% fat) into the mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form. If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.
6. Form the Dough:
Lightly flour a clean work surface and transfer the dough onto it. Knead the dough until it is smooth and all ingredients are well combined. If the dough sticks to your hands, lightly dust with more flour.
7. Shape the Log:
Form the dough into a log shape, approximately 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) long and 2 inches (5 cm) wide. Place the log onto the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake the Log:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the log is lightly golden and firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly on the baking sheet, about 10 minutes.
9. Slice the Biscotti:
Using a serrated knife, slice the log diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices. Arrange the slices on the baking sheet, cut side down.
10. Second Bake:
Return the slices to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cantucci are golden brown and crisp. For even crispiness, flip the slices halfway through baking.
11. Cool and Serve:
Remove the cantucci from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container.
12. Enjoy:
Serve your Rosemary Cantucci with a cup of coffee or tea, or enjoy them as a savory snack any time of the day.
Tips:
- Ensure that the garlic is finely minced to avoid large chunks in your cantucci.
- Grate the orange zest finely to evenly distribute the citrus flavor throughout the dough.
- Chop the pistachio nuts roughly to add a nice texture contrast in the finished cantucci.
- For best results, use fresh rosemary and chili peppers to ensure maximum flavor.
- Use a serrated knife for slicing the baked logs into individual cantucci pieces to prevent crumbling.
- Allow the logs to cool slightly before slicing to make the process easier and cleaner.
- After the initial bake, bake the sliced cantucci at a lower temperature to achieve the perfect crunch without burning them.
With its captivating blend of flavors and satisfying crunch, rosemary cantucci will quickly become a favorite in your household. The combination of savory parmesan, aromatic rosemary, and the unexpected kick from chili peppers makes these biscotti an irresistible treat. Follow the tips for the best results, and enjoy these cantucci with a warm beverage or as a delightful snack on their own.