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Fig Biscotti — Perfect for Sharing and Gifting During the Holidays

By Delicious Recipes!Posted on
Fig Biscotti — Perfect for Sharing and Gifting During the Holidays

Fig Biscotti — Perfect for Sharing and Gifting During the Holidays

These fig biscotti are a festive treat ideal for sharing with carolers or gifting during the holiday season. Wrapped nicely, they make a charming homemade present! They’re delightfully tender compared to typical biscotti, thanks to the addition of dried figs, making them easier to bite and enjoy. Dip them in milk, coffee, or even sweet wine or sherry for a delicious experience. Plus, they keep well for over a week, making them convenient to prepare in advance.

🕒 Prep & Baking Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Bake Time: 40 minutes + 15–20 minutes drying
  • Yield: Approx. 20–25 biscotti

📝 Ingredients

  • 180 g sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon walnut liqueur (or substitute with rum, sweet sherry, or any liqueur you prefer)
  • 250 g all-purpose flour (type BL55)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • Zest of ¼ orange (optional)
  • 120 g dried figs (about 5-6 pieces), finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

🔪 Instructions

  1. Prepare Dry Mix:
    • Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Prep Eggs and Sugar:
    • Separate one egg, keeping the white and yolk separate for later use.
    • Powder the sugar in a mixer or blender for a finer texture.
  3. Make the Batter:
    • Beat 2 whole eggs plus 1 yolk with the powdered sugar until pale yellow and thick (about 4 minutes).
    • Add the walnut liqueur and mix until combined.
    • Slowly add the sifted dry mix, mixing on medium speed just until a smooth dough forms (about 1 minute).
    • Stir in the chopped figs and orange zest (if using) on low speed for 30 seconds until evenly distributed. The dough will be thick and sticky, clinging to the spoon.
  4. Bake the Log:
    • Line a loaf pan with parchment paper (fold and crease the paper to fit snugly).
    • Transfer the dough into the pan and smooth the top with a spoon.
  5. Brush with Egg White and Sugar:
    • Lightly beat the reserved egg white with a fork. Brush it evenly over the dough.
    • Smooth the top again gently and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
  6. Bake:
    • Bake at 180°C for about 40 minutes.
    • If the top browns too fast, cover loosely with aluminum foil after 30 minutes.
    • Test doneness with a skewer starting at 30 minutes; when it comes out clean, remove from oven.
  7. Cool and Slice:
    • Let the biscotti cool completely in the pan.
    • Using a serrated knife, cut into thin slices about ½ cm thick.
  8. Dry the Slices:
    • Arrange the slices on a baking tray and dry at 140°C for 15–20 minutes until crisp but not browned.

💡 Tips & Variations

  • Adjust liqueur type to your liking, or omit for a non-alcoholic version.
  • Use a sharp serrated knife for clean slices and avoid crumbling.
  • Store biscotti in an airtight container to preserve their crispness.
  • For extra flavor, add a handful of chopped nuts or a pinch of cinnamon to the dough.

🧾 Final Thoughts

Fig biscotti are a charming holiday treat blending sweetness, chewiness, and a hint of citrus that brightens every bite. Their delicate texture and long shelf life make them perfect for gift-giving or enjoying with your favorite warm beverage during cozy winter evenings. Whether dipped in coffee, milk, or wine, these biscotti will surely become a seasonal favorite!