Lemon Almond Biscotti with Honey Glaze

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Crunchy twice-baked biscotti flavored with fresh lemon zest and toasted almonds, finished with a sweet honey glaze for a perfect tea-time treat. This italian-inspired desserts ready in about 65 minutes layers all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 150 calories and feeds 12, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 45 min Serves 12 Italian cuisine 150 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt until combined.
  2. Step 2: In a large bowl, beat 3/4 cup granulated sugar with 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  3. Step 3: Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in 2 tbsp finely grated lemon zest and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
  4. Step 4: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined, then fold in 3/4 cup chopped toasted almonds.
  5. Step 5: Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Step 6: Bake the logs for 25-30 minutes until lightly golden and firm to the touch. Remove from oven and let cool for 15 minutes.
  7. Step 7: Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C). Using a serrated knife, slice each log diagonally into 1/2-inch thick biscotti.
  8. Step 8: Arrange slices cut side down on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 12-15 minutes until crisp and golden.
  9. Step 9: While warm, whisk together 2 tbsp honey and 1 tbsp water, then brush the honey glaze over the biscotti for shine and sweetness.
  10. Step 10: Cool completely on wire racks before serving or storing in an airtight container.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Lemon Almond Biscotti with Honey Glaze take to make?

Total time is about 65 minutes (20 min prep + 45 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.

How do I store leftover Lemon Almond Biscotti with Honey Glaze?

Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in Lemon Almond Biscotti with Honey Glaze?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Lemon Almond Biscotti with Honey Glaze for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 12 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 12). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Lemon Almond Biscotti with Honey Glaze?

Italian desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.