Cantuccini

Growing up surrounded by the Italian side of my family, Cantuccini holds a special place in my heart. These perfectly crunchy biscuits, with a hint of lemon and the rich flavor of roasted almonds, are filled with nostalgia for me.

I had completely forgotten about them until I spotted a box at the supermarket — being sold at an exorbitant price. I figured I could easily make them at home for a fraction of the cost... And it turns out they're surprisingly simple to make.

Ingredients

  • 300g flour1
  • 130g caster sugar2
  • 130g whole unpeeled almonds
  • 50g melted butter
  • 2 whole eggs
  • 7-8g baking powder
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice3
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • Salt

Recipe

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and roast the almonds for 5 to 10 minutes, until lightly golden.

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy.

Add the melted butter, honey, and lemon juice, and continue whisking until the texture is smooth and well combined.

In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

Gradually fold a quarter of the dry ingredients into the egg mixture.

Keep incorporating the flour mix in stages, using your hands to knead the dough once it thickens.

You should end up with a thick, slightly sticky dough, similar to cookie dough.

Mix in the roasted almonds, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Transfer the dough to a floured work surface, and knead briefly to make it easier to handle.

Divide the dough in half and roll each portion into a long, thin loaf (they will rise as they bake). Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30 minutes, until golden brown.

Remove the loaves from the oven, but leave the oven on. Allow the loaves to cool for a few minutes. Then, using a sharp bread knife, carefully slice them into pieces about 1cm to 2cm thick.

Place the slices back on the parchment-lined baking sheet and return them to the oven for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until they're lightly toasted.

Let the slices cool completely for about an hour. Once cooled, they’re ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container, and they’ll keep for a few weeks.

Nutrition facts

Approximately 381kcal per 100g.

Note: nutritional value may vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

1

T45 or Typo 00.

2

Known as « superfine sugar » in America. You can use regular granulated sugar, you'll just have to whip harder.

3

You can also use lemon zest.