There’s something special about the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the kitchen, and when it comes to my Hot Cross Bun Biscotti, it’s practically a tradition. Every spring, as Easter approaches, I find myself reminiscing about the joyous family gatherings that revolve around special treats. These biscotti capture that essence, blending the warm spices of traditional hot cross buns into a deliciously crunchy cookie. I remember the first time I made them; the excitement and anticipation were palpable as I pulled them from the oven, their golden crust teasing my taste buds. Each bite of these biscotti is not just a treat, it’s a celebration of flavors.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
5 g

Tools Used:
Grater, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Peeler, Baking Sheet

The Appeal of This Hot Cross Bun Biscotti

Perfectly Balanced Flavors

The first thing that draws me to these biscotti is the perfect blend of spices. The cinnamon and mixed spice create that signature flavor, reminding me of the festive hot cross buns we used to enjoy. It’s a beautiful way to bring those flavors into a different form!

Crunchy Yet Chewy

One of the best things about the Hot Cross Bun Biscotti is their texture. They are crunchy on the outside and remain delightfully chewy on the inside. It’s a textural delight that makes for the perfect pairing with your morning coffee or afternoon tea.

Customizable Ingredients

Another standout feature of this recipe is how adaptable it is. Feel free to add extra dried fruits or nuts for a personalized touch! I often throw in a handful of chopped almonds or even some chopped dried figs, which take these biscotti to the next level.

Great for Gifting

These biscotti also make fantastic gifts. They are perfect for Easter baskets or as a thoughtful treat for a friend. Just package them nicely in a simple box, and you’ve got a lovely homemade gift that shows you care.

Storage Life

What I love even more is how well these biscotti store. They can last for weeks when kept in an airtight container, maintaining their crispness. Plus, you can whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them for weeks to come.

Easy to Make

Finally, the process of making these biscotti is quite straightforward. With just a few steps, you can create a batch that will impress everyone at your next gathering. I promise, it’s easier than you might think!

Shopping List for Hot Cross Bun Biscotti

These ingredients come together to create the delightful flavors and textures of the Hot Cross Bun Biscotti. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of sweetness and spice. You’ll notice that the key players include the classic flavors found in hot cross buns, making these biscotti a true treat for any occasion.

2 large free-range eggs: Provides the structure and moisture necessary for the biscotti.
½ cup sunflower oil: A lighter oil that keeps the biscotti moist and tender.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a hint of sweetness and depth.
150 gms sugar: The sweetener that balances the spices.
300 gms flour: Forms the base of the biscotti.
pinch salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
1 tsp cinnamon: Brings warmth and a signature flavor reminiscent of hot cross buns.
½ tsp mixed spice: A blend of spices that adds complexity.
Finely grated zest of an orange: Infuses a fresh, citrusy note that brightens the biscotti.
1 ½ tsp baking powder: Helps the biscotti rise during baking.
3 tbsp dried candied citrus peel: Adds chewy texture and bursts of flavor.
150 grams raisins / currents / cranberries: Choose your favorite dried fruit for sweetness.

Step by Step Guide for Hot Cross Bun Biscotti

Making Hot Cross Bun Biscotti might seem daunting, but let me assure you, it’s an enjoyable process that rewards you with irresistible results. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a batch of wonderful biscotti ready to share with friends and family!

Start by gathering all your ingredients. It’s always easier to have everything at hand. In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs, sunflower oil, vanilla, and sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture is well combined and fluffy. You want to see a nice creamy texture at this stage.
Next, add the flour, a pinch of salt, cinnamon, mixed spice, orange zest, and baking powder into the bowl. Mix these ingredients until you form a sticky dough that holds together. Don’t worry if it seems a bit wet; this is normal.
Now, empty the dough onto a floured work surface. Knead it gently until it becomes smooth and no longer sticky. If it feels too wet, sprinkle a little more flour as needed until it’s manageable.
Divide the dough into two equal pieces and roll each half into a fat roll about 30 cm long. These rolls should be thick enough to hold their shape during baking.
Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place the dough rolls on it, spaced apart. Now, pop them in the refrigerator or freezer for a bit; this cooling step helps prevent spreading during baking.
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This will ensure that your biscotti bake evenly once they hit the heat.
After 20 to 30 minutes, remove the tray from the fridge and place it in the oven. Immediately reduce the temperature to 160°C (325°F) and bake until the biscotti are lightly golden and firm to the touch. This usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Once they are baked, let them cool slightly on the tray. Now, reduce your oven temperature to 100°C (212°F) for the next step.
Slice the biscotti diagonally into about 1.5 cm thick pieces. Lay them back on the lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out for even drying.
Return the tray to the oven and bake for 15 minutes. To ensure they dry out perfectly, place a cloth in the oven door to keep it slightly ajar. After this time, remove the cloth and bake for another 15 minutes. When done, turn off the oven and allow the biscotti to cool inside. This final step helps them achieve that perfect crunch!

Things Worth Knowing

Proper Cooling: Always allow your biscotti to cool completely before storing them to maintain their crunchiness.
Ingredient Temperature: Use ingredients at room temperature for better blending and emulsification.
Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing the dough; just mix until combined to ensure a tender texture.
Chilling Time: Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s crucial for achieving the right shape during baking.

Recipe Tips about Hot Cross Bun Biscotti

When it comes to perfecting your Hot Cross Bun Biscotti, a few tips can make all the difference. Here’s what I’ve learned over the years:

Storage: To keep your biscotti fresh, always store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps retain their crunch.
Freezing: You can freeze biscotti for up to three months. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag and separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Pairing: Biscotti pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. Consider serving them with a rich cappuccino or a light herbal tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Variations: Feel free to customize with your favorite dried fruits or nuts. Adding chopped almonds or cherries can give a unique twist to your biscotti.
Re-baking: If your biscotti soften over time, just re-bake them at 150°C (300°F) for a few minutes to restore their crunchiness.

Best Served With

These Hot Cross Bun Biscotti can be enjoyed in various delightful ways, making them perfect for any occasion:

Morning Coffee: Enjoy your biscotti with a rich cup of coffee for a satisfying start to your day.
Afternoon Tea: They make a lovely accompaniment to your afternoon tea or as a light dessert after lunch.
Holiday Treat: Serve them during family gatherings or special occasions like Easter for a festive touch.
Snack Time: Keep them handy for a quick snack that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Gift Idea: Package them beautifully as a thoughtful gift for friends or family who appreciate homemade treats.

FAQ

The Hot Cross Bun Biscotti is special because it blends the delightful spices found in traditional hot cross buns with the crispy texture of biscotti. This unique combination makes it perfect for Easter celebrations and adds a festive touch to your snack time. Enjoying these biscotti with a cup of coffee or tea is sure to evoke memories of family gatherings during the spring season.

Absolutely! One of the best features of Hot Cross Bun Biscotti is their versatility. You can add various dried fruits like apricots or figs, or even throw in some nuts for added crunch. The spices can be adjusted based on your taste; feel free to add more cinnamon or even a hint of ginger to make them your own. Experimenting with different combinations can lead to delightful surprises!

To keep your Hot Cross Bun Biscotti fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This way, they can retain their crispiness for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or re-bake them briefly to restore their crunch.

You’ll know the Hot Cross Bun Biscotti are done when they are lightly golden and firm to the touch. After the initial baking time, let them cool slightly before slicing. During the second bake, they should become dry and hard, which is what gives them that characteristic crunch. If they are still soft after the second baking, return them to the oven for a few more minutes to ensure they are fully dried out.

Conclusion

The Hot Cross Bun Biscotti is a delightful treat that beautifully marries the flavors of traditional Easter goodies with the satisfying crunch of biscotti. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether for a holiday gathering or just for a cozy snack at home. Trust me, once you experience the joy of making these, you’ll want to share them with everyone you know!