Almond Biscotti Recipe

Almond biscotti have always been one of my absolute favorite cookies, crunchy, golden, and perfect for dipping into a hot drink. As a chef, I’ve tested countless batches to develop the perfect version: crisp on the outside, lightly sweet, and packed with toasted almond flavor. These biscotti are twice-baked for that signature crunch and made entirely without eggs or dairy, yet they rival the traditional Italian classic in both taste and texture. Nutty, golden brown, and incredibly satisfying, this almond biscotti recipe is easy to make and even easier to fall in love with.

Whether you’re baking for the holidays, gifting homemade treats, or just treating yourself, this is the recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Looking for more delicious almond recipes? Try my favorite almond apple cake, the cutest almond strawberry bites, or this delectable raspberry almond thumbprint cookies.

Since I was a little girl, biscotti have been among my absolute favorite cookies. When we would go to the bakery, my sister Kaija would pick some exotic cookie with sprinkles and icing, but I just wanted a biscotti. I don’t know for sure what it was about these cookies that fascinated me as a child, but I think it may have been the combination of the crunchy texture and unique flavor. As I grew, I learned to make these cookies myself and they became a staple on my list of absolute favorites. Biscotti cookies come in so many varieties, but the one I remember best from childhood was the almond biscotti. So I thought I would share this very special vegan almond biscotti recipe with you.

Biscotti is actually an Italian cookie. I believe the name stems from the fact that it is twice baked. This process makes the cookies very crispy, a characteristic that makes them easy to store, easy to take along on a picnic, and easy to give as gifts. They last well for many days, and should they get a little soft, just put them back in the oven at 300F for a few minutes and they are as good as new.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Almond Biscotti

• Almond crunchy goodness: Packed with toasted almonds and baked to golden perfection, every bite delivers irresistible nutty flavor and satisfying crunch.
• Twice-baked for that signature crunch: The classic biscotti method ensures a crisp, dry texture that’s perfect for dipping into coffee substitute, tea, or hot carob or hot cocoa.
• Simple pantry ingredients: Made with everyday staples like flour, flax, and coconut oil—no need for specialty items.
• Get creative: Once you get the basic almond recipe down, you can also add all sorts of fun ingredients to it and play with the recipe. 
• Completely egg-free and dairy-free: 100% plant-based and vegan, but just as crisp, rich, and delicious as the traditional version—perfect for anyone avoiding animal products.
• Great for gifting or batch baking: These cookies keep well, making them ideal for holiday gifts, cookie exchanges, or meal-prep-friendly desserts.
• Easy storage: Store beautifully at room temperature for up to two weeks—or freeze and enjoy later with zero fuss.

Why This Vegan Biscotti Recipe is the Perfect Breakfast Companion

There’s something about sitting at the table early in the morning with a warm cup of tea and an Italian almond biscotti. I don’t know exactly why I carried my fascination with biscotti into adulthood, but to this day these are my favorite cookies. It’s a great way to start the day off right with some carbohydrates, especially if you pair it with a delicious vegan breakfast. 

One of my favorite variations on almond biscotti is the almond-cranberry biscotti. All you have to do to achieve this is add some dry cranberries to the mix. They’ll rehydrate during baking with the moisture in the dough so you don’t have to worry about the cranberries getting too rubbery.

What Are Almond Biscotti?

Almond biscotti are traditional Italian cookies known for their crisp, dry texture and distinctive twice-baked method. The word biscotti comes from the Latin bis coctus, meaning “twice cooked,” which gives these cookies their signature crunch.

Originally from Tuscany, traditional biscotti are typically shaped into logs, baked, sliced, and then baked again until crisp. Almond is one of the most classic and beloved variations, featuring toasted almonds for a rich, nutty flavor. They’re perfect for dipping into warm or cold beverages, and their long shelf life makes them ideal for gifting or make-ahead treats.

Almond Biscotti Ingredients

These vegan almond biscotti are made with simple ingredients you likely have in your pantry. And if you’re missing something, don’t worry, I’ve included easy swaps to help you customize or adapt the recipe without compromising flavor or texture.

• Refined Coconut Oil: Acts as a dairy-free fat to bind the dough and promote crispness, without a strong coconut taste. You can substitute the coconut oil for vegan butter in equal amounts.
• Natural Cane Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning. You can use organic granulated sugar, coconut sugar (for a richer flavor and darker color), or even maple sugar for a refined-sugar-free option.
• Golden Ground Flax Meal: Replaces eggs by binding the dough and adding moisture. Use ground chia seeds for a simple and nutritious substitute.
• Vanilla & Almond Extracts: Add aromatic flavor and boost the almond profile. A few drops of almond extract will add a wonderful flavor to the biscotti. If you’re out of almond extract, omit it or add a little extra vanilla bean paste. You can also try some orange zest for a citrusy twist.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structure of the cookie. For a gluten free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed. Almond flour isn’t recommended on its own, as it will change the texture too much.
• Baking Powder & Salt: Baking powder gives a slight lift, while salt enhances flavor. No major swaps here, just make sure your baking powder is fresh. If you’re sodium-sensitive, reduce the salt slightly.
• Toasted Almonds: Provide crunch and nutty flavor—the signature ingredient! Try hazelnuts, pistachios, pecans, sliced almonds, slivered almonds, or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. You can also add in a few dried cranberries or mini vegan chocolate chips or vegan carob chips for variety.

How Good Quality Extract Improves Your Biscotti Recipe

In this recipe, we are using both vanilla and almond extract. Especially in recipes like this where the extracts help showcase the flavors of other ingredients, it is so important to use good quality, fresh extract.

I can’t stress this enough. The extract is the life of this biscotti. 

If you’re used to picking up the least expensive imitation vanilla at the store, do yourself a favor. Treat yourself to the high quality, organic, full-bodied extract instead. 

Do the same with your almond extract. You will be blown away with the differences.

It can be a lot more expensive by the ounce, but keep in mind that these extracts go a long way. If you’re going to treat your body well, make sure you’re putting real, good food into it. 

Delicious Almond Biscotti Recipe Variations and Add-ons

Carob or Chocolate-Dipped Almond Biscotti: For a decadent twist, dip the cooled biscotti into melted chocolate, carob, or dark chocolate. Let them set before serving.

Orange Almond Biscotti: Add a burst of fresh orange zest or lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy twist on the classic. The bright, fragrant notes of orange complement the rich almonds beautifully. You can also dip the biscotti in chocolate and sprinkle with candied orange peel for extra flair.

Cherry Almond Biscotti: Add dried cherries to the dough for a sweet, tart contrast that pairs wonderfully with the toasted almonds. This variation is perfect for holiday baking or when you’re craving a fruity treat alongside your biscotti.

Hazelnut Almond Biscotti: Substitute some of the almonds with toasted hazelnuts for a deeper, earthy flavor. Hazelnuts add a unique twist to your biscotti while maintaining that irresistible crunch.

Blueberry Almond Biscotti: Fold in dried blueberries or freeze-dried blueberries to add a chewy, fruity component to your biscotti. The sweet-tart berries pair perfectly with the nutty almonds, making this variation a great option for brunches or tea parties.

Maple Almond Biscotti: For a slightly different sweetness, substitute maple sugar for some of the sugar in the recipe. Maple sugar adds a rich, caramelized flavor that works beautifully with the toasted almonds.

Coconut Almond Biscotti: Add unsweetened shredded coconut to the dough for a chewy, tropical twist. Coconut complements the almonds perfectly and adds an extra layer of texture.

Allergy-Friendly Options:

If you’re following a gluten-free or soy-free diet, you can still enjoy these delicious vegan almond biscotti! Here’s how to modify the recipe to fit your dietary needs:

Gluten-Free Almond Biscotti

To make this biscotti gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum for optimal texture and structure. Make sure the blend doesn’t contain any wheat-derived starches for the best results. I like to use Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Baking Flour.

Soy-Free Almond Biscotti

This recipe is naturally soy-free, but always be sure to check labels if you’re using packaged ingredients like baking powder (some brands may contain soy). Avoid soy-based vegan butter or margarine, and instead, opt for refined coconut oil or other plant-based oils.

How to Make Almond Biscotti (Step-by-Step)

Making vegan almond biscotti at home is easier than you think, and incredibly rewarding. Follow these simple steps to bake biscotti with the perfect crunch, golden color, and irresistible almond flavor. So biscotti cookies are baked twice. It sounds labor-intensive, but it is really easy. You basically bake the dough as a log, cut the log into 1/2-3/4 inch slices, and then bake the slices again. Super simple and so delicious.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Cream the Sugar and Oil

In a large mixing bowl, add natural cane sugar and refined coconut oil. Using a hand mixer, cream the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy—this helps create a tender, yet crisp cookie texture.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the golden ground flax meal, vanilla extract, almond extract, and room-temperature water to the bowl. Beat again until everything is well combined and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon to form a soft dough.
Gently fold in the chopped toasted almonds until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Shape and First Bake

Transfer the dough to your prepared baking sheet and form it into a log—about 8 inches long and 3 inches wide. Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, or until the log is firm and lightly golden, especially around the edges.

Step 7: Cool Slightly and Slice

Remove from the oven and lightly brush with water—this softens the crust, making it easier to slice cleanly. Let it rest for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 325°F.
Cut the log into ½–¾ inch slices, slightly on the diagonal for that classic biscotti look.

Step 8: Second Bake for Crunch

Stand the slices upright on the baking sheet, spacing them out for even baking.
Return to the oven and bake at 325°F for 25–30 minutes, until the biscotti are dry and crisp.
Note: They’ll continue to harden as they cool!

Optional Final Bake (If Needed)

If the biscotti are still a little soft after cooling, simply bake them again at 300°F for 10 minutes to restore that perfect crunch.

What to Serve with Almond Biscotti

Almond biscotti are the ultimate crunchy companion to warm drinks and sweet pairings. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning at home or entertaining guests, here are some delicious ideas for what to serve with your homemade biscotti:

• Tea or Hot Lemonade: Herbal teas with citrus or spice notes pair beautifully with almond-based cookies. Try dipping your biscotti into herbal tea or a cup of hot lemonade.
• Coffee Substitute: The classic pairing! Biscotti are traditionally served with a steaming cup of coffee. Their sturdy texture holds up beautifully when dunked, softening just enough to melt in your mouth without falling apart.
• Hot Carob or Hot Chocolate: For a cozy winter treat, enjoy your biscotti with a mug of vegan hot chocolate or hot carob. The sweet richness of the chocolate complements the nutty, toasted flavor of the biscotti perfectly.
• Plant-Based Milk: A glass of homemade almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk makes a refreshing, dunk-friendly option. It’s a great choice for a lighter snack or dessert.
• Dairy-Free Ice Cream or Gelato: Serve biscotti alongside a scoop of vegan peach ice cream, pear cream ice cream, hazelnut, or chocolate gelato for a simple, elegant dessert. The contrast between the creamy and crunchy textures is irresistible.
• Fresh Fruit & Pear Cream: For a brunch-inspired combo, pair your biscotti with fresh berries, sliced pears, or figs and a side of pear cream. It’s a wholesome and beautiful presentation for entertaining.

How to Toast Almonds for Almond Biscotti

1. Spread your almond slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and put it into the oven at 350F. 
2. Check the almonds at 2 minutes baking time, and every minute afterwards (6-7 minutes). You’re looking for a nice golden-brown consistency across all the almonds.
3. After toasting, make sure the roasted almonds cool down before you add them to the batter. If you put them in while they’re still hot, they can cook the batter around it, creating a pocket that leaves you with dry almond-y patches. You want everything to cook evenly.

Why toasting Almonds Adds Depth of Flavor

Toasting almonds before adding them to your biscotti isn’t just an extra step—it’s the secret to unlocking their full flavor potential. When almonds are toasted in the oven, their natural oils are released, enhancing their nutty aroma, deepening their flavor, and adding a satisfying crunch. This extra layer of richness carries through every bite of the biscotti, making the cookies taste more complex and bakery-quality. Plus, toasted almonds hold up better during baking, keeping their texture crisp and distinct even after two rounds in the oven. Once you try it, you won’t go back to using raw almonds ever again, trust me. I know, it sounds like a time-consuming process, but it really doesn’t take too long to do. For the best results, toast your almonds at 350°F for 6–7 minutes, then let them cool before chopping and mixing into the dough.

Tools & Equipment You’ll Need

Making almond biscotti at home is simple and doesn’t require any fancy gear. Here’s everything you need to get started:

• Mixing Bowls: One large bowl for your wet ingredients and one smaller bowl for mixing the dry ingredients.
• Hand Mixer or Whisk: A hand mixer makes it easier to cream the sugar and oil until light and fluffy, but a whisk will work if you prefer to do it by hand.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for gently folding the dry ingredients into the wet mixture without overmixing.
• Sharp Knife or Serrated Bread Knife: Essential for slicing the baked biscotti log cleanly without crumbling—especially at a slight angle.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents sticking and helps your biscotti bake evenly without burning on the bottom.
• Baking Sheet: You’ll need one large baking tray (or two smaller ones) to accommodate the biscotti log and later the individual slices.
• Cooling Rack: A cooling rack helps air circulate around the cookies after baking, ensuring they dry and crisp up evenly.

How to Store Almond Biscotti

Proper storage is key to maintaining that signature crisp, crunchy texture of almond biscotti. Thankfully, these cookies store beautifully and even make great make-ahead treats.

Storing biscotti is easy. All you need to do is store biscotti in a sealed container or ziplock bag. You don’t even have to refrigerate them. If these sweet treats start to go stale, just reheat them in the oven to remove any moisture.

Room Temperature

Store your completely cooled biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Keep the container in a cool, dry place away from moisture and humidity, which can make them soft.

Tip: Use a cookie tin or glass jar for the best preservation of texture and flavor.

Freezer-Friendly

To make your biscotti last even longer, you can freeze them! Place fully cooled biscotti in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When ready to enjoy, simply let them come to room temperature, or warm them in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes to refresh that crispiness.

Storing biscotti properly means you’ll always have a delicious snack on hand for coffee breaks, brunch, or unexpected guests.

Make Vegan Biscotti Your Own: Favorite Nut Substitutions

If you’re really not an almond person and you want to try baking these biscotti with a different type of nut, there are a few delicious vegan substitutions that you’re going to love. 

The main thing you want to look for when substituting nuts is that they have the same sort of texture as an almond. You may need to chop or slice them to get them to the same size as almonds.

Some of my favorite nut substitutions for this recipe include hazelnuts, walnuts, macadamia, and brazil nuts. 

Hazelnuts, walnuts, and macadamia nuts add an amazing nutty flavor to the biscotti, and they’re a little softer than almonds. You can’t go wrong with these nuts. 

Brazil nuts are much larger, but they have the same kind of consistency as almonds, just a little softer. You’ll have to cut these, but they add a lot of great depth to the flavor. 

If you feel adventurous, you can even use unsalted, shelled pistachios for a focused, earthy flavor.

Tips and Tricks to Make the Best Almond Biscotti

Whether you’re a biscotti beginner or a seasoned baker, these pro tips will help you make almond biscotti that are crisp, golden, and full of flavor—every single time.

1. Don’t Skip Toasting the Almonds: Toasting almonds enhances their nutty flavor and keeps them crunchy after baking. Just 6–7 minutes in a 350°F oven makes a huge difference in taste and texture.
2. Cream the Sugar and Oil Properly: Creaming the coconut oil and sugar until light and fluffy helps create a tender dough that holds together well and bakes up with a crisp edge.
3. Let the Dough Rest Before Slicing: After the first bake, let the log rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This helps prevent crumbling and gives you cleaner, neater cuts. The cooled biscotti will be soft and plush like a dense loaf of bread, but since it’s cooled all the way through, it won’t compress and crumble with the knife. Instead, you’ll get nice, clean slices.
4. Use a Serrated Knife and Slice on a Diagonal: A serrated or bread knife makes slicing easier, and cutting on a slight angle gives your biscotti that classic, café-style look.
5. Bake Them Standing Up for Even Crisping: During the second bake, stand the biscotti slices upright on the tray. This allows hot air to circulate and ensures both sides crisp up evenly.
6. Let Them Cool Completely: Biscotti continue to crisp as they cool, so resist the urge to eat them warm if you’re aiming for that signature crunch.
7. Re-Crisp If Needed: If your biscotti soften after storage or baking, pop them back in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to refresh their crunch without overbaking.

These easy tips will take your biscotti from good to bakery-worthy, making them ideal for gifting, dunking, or just snacking straight from the jar.

Nutritional Benefits of Almonds

Almonds aren’t just delicious—they’re packed with powerful nutrients that make your biscotti a little more wholesome with every bite.

Almonds are a great source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and support overall cardiovascular health. Just a handful of almonds provides a boost of plant-based protein, making them a smart choice for vegans and vegetarians looking to increase their protein intake naturally.

Almonds are one of the best natural sources of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that supports skin health, immune function, and brain health. Magnesium is essential for bone health, muscle function, and blood sugar control—and almonds deliver a healthy dose in every serving. Almonds contain dietary fiber, which supports digestion, helps you feel full longer, and contributes to stable blood sugar levels.

Including toasted almonds in your biscotti recipe doesn’t just enhance the flavor—it adds a satisfying crunch and a dose of real, feel-good nutrition. (1)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make almond biscotti without coconut oil?

Yes, you can substitute the coconut oil with vegan butter or margarine.

What’s the best way to slice biscotti without crumbling?

Let the biscotti log cool for about 15 minutes after the first bake, then use a serrated knife to cut into slices. Cutting at a slight angle also helps create neat, even pieces.

Why are biscotti baked twice?

Biscotti are traditionally twice-baked to give them that classic dry, crisp texture perfect for dunking into a warm drink. The first bake sets the shape, and the second bake dries them out.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum or a binder for best results. See the Allergy-Friendly Options section for more tips.

How long do homemade biscotti last?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, almond biscotti stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I skip toasting the almonds?

You can, but toasting enhances their flavor and crunch. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in the final result.

Is Biscotti a Healthy Snack?

Biscotti is some of my favorite cookies of all time. The ingredients are all good for you, giving you a new way to eat your favorite nuts and berries. As a low fat, low sugar cookie, they’re one of the best sweet treats you can have. 

That said, it’s always important to have things in moderation. Too many biscotti in one sitting still adds up.

Are biscotti supposed to be hard?

Yes—crispness is key! Biscotti are meant to be dry and crunchy so they hold up when dipped in milk, tea, or hot chocolate. If yours are too soft, return them to the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes.

Watch My Vegan Almond Biscotti Recipe Video

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Looking for More Baking Recipes?

• Amazing Peach Bars
• Breakfast Blueberry Muffin Tops
• Fresh Strawberry Pie
• Strawberry Jam Scones
• Vegan Pavlova
• Carrot Cake with Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting

Sources:

1. Leech, Joe. “9 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Almonds.” Healthline, 6 Sept. 2018