Vegan Hazelnut Biscotti Cookies Recipe | Easy & Delicious

Craving a crunchy, nutty, and utterly delightful treat that’s also vegan? Look no further! These Vegan Hazelnut Biscotti Cookies are not only incredibly delicious, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make, and they’re sure to impress anyone you share them with.

Why You’ll Love It

• The perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors.
• A satisfyingly crunchy texture that’s ideal for dunking in coffee or tea.
• Surprisingly easy to make with simple ingredients.
• Great for gifting, holidays, or a simple afternoon treat.
• They are completely vegan, making them suitable for all to enjoy.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets these Vegan Hazelnut Biscotti Cookies apart is the use of aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) as a binder, which replaces eggs perfectly and creates that perfect light and airy texture while keeping them plant-based. The toasting of the hazelnuts before adding them into the dough intensifies their flavor, giving these biscotti an unforgettable taste. Twice-baked, these cookies reach that ideal level of crunchiness, making them perfect for dunking.

Ingredient List

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup aquafaba (chickpea brine), this acts as a vegan egg replacement and helps to bind the ingredients.
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup toasted and coarsely chopped hazelnuts, toasting brings out their rich nutty flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, aquafaba, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Gently fold in the chopped toasted hazelnuts.
6. Form the dough into a log about 12 inches long and 3 inches wide. Place it onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the log is golden brown and firm.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 15-20 minutes.
9. Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the log into 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick biscotti.
10. Place the biscotti cut-side up back onto the baking sheet.
11. Return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the biscotti are golden brown and crunchy.
12. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Optional Toppings/Variations

While they are amazing as is, feel free to experiment with the following:

• Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, melt some vegan dark chocolate and drizzle it over the biscotti.
• Orange Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of orange zest to the dough for a citrus twist.
• Spiced Biscotti: Mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or chai spice blend to the dry ingredients for a warmer flavor.

Expert Tips

• Make sure your hazelnuts are completely toasted and cooled before adding them to the dough for the best flavor and texture.
• Do not overmix the dough to ensure the biscotti stays tender and not tough.
• Allow the first baked log to cool down slightly before slicing to prevent them from breaking.
• The second bake is essential for achieving that signature biscotti crunch, so don’t skip it!
• Store your biscotti in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use a different nut instead of hazelnuts? Yes, almonds, pecans, or pistachios are great substitutes. Just make sure to toast them for the best results.
• Can I use a gluten-free flour? Yes, a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend should work fine. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid slightly.
• How long will these biscotti last? When stored in an airtight container, they will last for 2-3 weeks.
• Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely! Biscotti are perfect to make ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container.
• Can I reduce the amount of sugar? You can, but reducing the sugar too much can affect the texture of the biscotti. Try starting with a tablespoon less first.

Variations and Customization Options

Get creative with your biscotti! Here are a few more ideas to personalize this recipe:

• Espresso Flavor: Add 1-2 teaspoons of espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a coffee-flavored treat.
• Dried Fruit: Incorporate dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots along with the nuts.
• Lemon Zest: Use lemon zest instead of orange for a brighter flavor.
• White Chocolate Drizzle: Use vegan white chocolate for a sweeter option.

Serving Suggestions

These Vegan Hazelnut Biscotti are perfect for dipping into your morning coffee or tea. They also make a lovely addition to a dessert platter or a thoughtful homemade gift. Enjoy them on their own or with a glass of almond milk. They’re great with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream, too!

Conclusion

These Vegan Hazelnut Biscotti Cookies are not only delicious but also a testament to how enjoyable vegan baking can be. Their perfect crunch, combined with the rich hazelnut flavor, will have everyone asking for more. So why wait? Grab your ingredients and start baking these delightful cookies today! Share your creations using #VeganHazelnutBiscotti and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more vegan baking inspiration.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

• Vegan Chocolate Mint Cookies
• Vegan Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
• Vegan Apple Cinnamon Cookies

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