"Biscotti" is the plural form of biscotto. The word originates from the medieval Latin word biscoctus,meaning "twice-cooked/baked." It defined oven baked goods that were baked twice, so they were very dry and could be stored for long periods of time. Pliny the Elder boasted that such goods would be edible for centuries. Such nonperishable food was particularly useful during journeys and wars, and twice baked breads were a staple food of the Roman Legions.

Yield: 3 to 4 dozen

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon anise extract, or 3 drops anise oil
• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder

Preparation Procedure

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
   
2. Grease cookie sheets or line with parchment paper.
   
3. In a medium bowl, beat together the oil, eggs, sugar, and anise flavoring until well blended.
4. Combine the flour and baking powder, stir into the egg mixture to form a heavy dough.
5. Divide dough into 2 pieces and form each piece into a roll as long as your cookie sheet.
6. Place roll onto the prepared cookie sheet, and press down to 1/2-inch thickness.
7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden brown.
   
8. Remove from the baking sheet to cool on a wire rack.
   
9. When the cookies are cool enough to handle, slice each one, on a diagonal, into 1/2-inch slices.
10. Place the slices cut side up back onto the baking sheet.
11. Bake for an additional 6 to 10 minutes on each side.
    
12. Cookie slices should be lightly toasted.

Classic Anise Almond Biscotti
(providing you have no nut allergies)

As a change to the subtle anise biscotti, the more Classic Anise Almond Biscotti is a wonderful treat. But, here in the school, we must ensure to avoid nuts! But, this is something you can do at home as long as you (or anyone else at home) have no nut allergies.

To the above recipe add the following: 3/4 c sliced almonds, 2 tsp grated lemon (or even orange) peal, 3/4 tsp salt, 1 tsp baking powder, and reduce the flour to 2-1/2 c.

Follow the rest of the above ingredients and procedures.