Peppermint Biscotti

Biscotti are actually really simple to make and will impress everyone. These make an excellent neighbor/coworker/friend holiday gift. Biscotti are sometimes called the coffee cookie because they are so good when dunked in coffee, but these are also great in hot chocolate. I have used both candy canes and starlight mints in this recipe and both turn out great.

      

42 Servings   

Prep: 1 hour Bake: 15 min./batch + cooling

Ingredients:

       3/4 cup butter, softened

       3/4 cup sugar

       3 eggs

       2 teaspoons peppermint extract

       3-1/4 cups all-purpose flour

       1 teaspoon baking powder

       1/4 teaspoon salt

       1 cup crushed peppermint candies

       
FROSTING:

       2 cups (12 ounces) Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips

       2 tablespoons shortening

       1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies

Directions

       In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in extract. Combine the flour, baking powder and salt; stir in peppermint candy. Gradually add to creamed mixture, beating until blended (dough will be stiff).

       Divide dough in half. On an ungreased baking sheet, shape each portion into a 12-in. x 2-1/2-in. rectangle. Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Carefully remove to wire racks; cool for 15 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board; cut diagonally with a sharp knife into 1/2-in. slices. Place cut side down on ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until firm. Remove to wire racks to cool.

       In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and shortening; stir until smooth. Drizzle over biscotti; sprinkle with candy. Place on waxed paper until set. Store in an airtight container. Yield: about 3-1/2 dozen.

Nutrition Facts: 1 serving (1 each) equals 121 calories, 5 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 24 mg cholesterol, 63 mg sodium, 17 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 2 g protein.