Lemon Blueberry Biscotti Bites
Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes
I absolutely love making Lemon Blueberry Biscotti Bites, especially during the spring when blueberries are in season. The bright, zesty flavor of lemon paired with the freshness of blueberries makes each bite feel like a little celebration. I enjoy dipping these crunchy treats into coffee or tea, making them perfect for afternoon snacks or weekend brunches. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to whip up, and I love how they keep well for days, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family.
When I first decided to make these Lemon Blueberry Biscotti Bites, I was looking for a treat that would balance freshness with a touch of sweetness. I experimented with different ratios of lemon zest and blueberries, and I found that using fresh fruit really enhances the flavor. Each bite comes alive with citrus brightness, making it a delightful experience.
One specific tip I can share is to let the biscotti cool down completely before slicing them into bites. This ensures they don’t crumble and retain their nice shape. Once baked, the crispiness pairs perfectly with a cup of tea, and I can't get enough of them!
Why You'll Love These Biscotti Bites
- Bright lemon flavor complemented by juicy blueberries
- Perfectly crunchy, ideal for dipping
- A delightful treat to brighten any occasion
Biscotti Texture and Techniques
Achieving the perfect biscotti texture requires attention to dough consistency. After mixing in the dry and wet ingredients, you should have a slightly sticky but manageable dough. If it’s too dry, a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of water can help moisten it without compromising flavor. This stickiness allows the biscotti to puff up beautifully while baking, resulting in a satisfying crunch that’s ideal for dipping.
One of the classic techniques for biscotti is double-baking, which intensifies the crunchiness. When you first bake the formed log, keep a close eye on it; you want it to be lightly golden but not overly brown, typically around 25 minutes. The second bake, after slicing, is crucial for drying them out further. Bake until they’re golden and crisp, around 10-15 minutes, ensuring they don't burn by checking for even color in your oven.
Ingredient Insights
Fresh blueberries are a standout in this recipe, adding bursts of juicy flavor and moisture. For the best results, use only in-season blueberries as they offer superior sweetness and texture. If fresh berries aren't available, frozen blueberries can work, but be sure to coat them lightly in flour before folding them into the dough; this prevents them from sinking during baking and allows for even distribution throughout the biscotti.
The use of lemon, both zest and juice, plays a significant role in this recipe. The zest contains essential oils that deliver a fragrant citrus aroma, while the juice adds acidity, which enhances the flavor of the blueberries. For a vibrant twist, consider substituting orange zest or juice for a different citrus profile; it pairs wonderfully with the blueberries while keeping the biscotti refreshing.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make the delicious Lemon Blueberry Biscotti Bites:
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure to check for any adjustments based on your preferences!
Instructions
Here's how to create these delightful biscotti bites:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set it aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Flavors
Add the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix well until fully combined.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the blueberries.
Shape and Bake
Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a log about 12 inches long. Bake for 25 minutes or until lightly golden.
Slice and Second Bake
Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Slice the log into 1-inch wide pieces. Place them back on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until crispy.
Cool and Serve
Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Lemon Blueberry Biscotti Bites with a warm beverage!
Pro Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider glazing the finished biscotti with a simple lemon icing made of powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Storing and Serving
Once cooled, these Lemon Blueberry Biscotti Bites can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, making them a great treat for meal prep. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Lay the biscotti in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to three months; just thaw at room temperature before serving.
For a fun serving suggestion, try pairing the biscotti with a homemade lemon glaze. Mix powdered sugar with a little lemon juice until smooth and drizzle it over the cooled biscotti for an extra zesty treat. Alternatively, serve them alongside a refreshing cup of herbal tea, enhancing the flavors and creating a delightful brunch experience.
Variations and Customization
Feel free to get creative with these biscotti bites by adding nuts such as almonds or walnuts for added texture and flavor. Just chop them roughly and fold them into the dough with the blueberries. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum to maintain structure.
For a richer take on these biscotti, consider incorporating white chocolate chips or drizzling melted chocolate on top after baking. This adds a lovely sweetness that contrasts with the tartness of the lemon and blueberries, perfect for those who enjoy a sweeter biscotti experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
→ How should I store these biscotti?
Store the biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
→ Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
You can reduce the sugar slightly, but it may affect the texture and sweetness of the biscotti.
→ What can I serve with biscotti?
These biscotti pair well with coffee, tea, or even a glass of dessert wine.
Lemon Blueberry Biscotti Bites
I absolutely love making Lemon Blueberry Biscotti Bites, especially during the spring when blueberries are in season. The bright, zesty flavor of lemon paired with the freshness of blueberries makes each bite feel like a little celebration. I enjoy dipping these crunchy treats into coffee or tea, making them perfect for afternoon snacks or weekend brunches. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to whip up, and I love how they keep well for days, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Sweet Bakes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 20 biscotti bites
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set it aside.
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix well until fully combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the blueberries.
Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a log about 12 inches long. Bake for 25 minutes or until lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Slice the log into 1-inch wide pieces. Place them back on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until crispy.
Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Extra Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider glazing the finished biscotti with a simple lemon icing made of powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 3g