Cinnamon Swirl Biscotti with Apple Compote

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 cup chopped almonds (optional)

Instructions

Preparing the Biscotti:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream butter and sugar until lightened in color. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients (flour mixture) and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in chopped almonds (if using).

Making the Cinnamon Swirl:

1. On a lightly floured surface, roll out half of the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness.
2. Brush with melted butter, then sprinkle cinnamon sugar (a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon) evenly over the dough.
3. Roll up the dough tightly and slice into 1/2-inch thick rounds.

Baking the Biscotti:

1. Place biscotti slices on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
2. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Apple Compote

• 2 apples (any variety), peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt to taste

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add diced apples, honey, and cinnamon. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until apples are tender and caramelized.

Assembly:

Cut cooled biscotti into desired shapes (e.g., triangles or half-moons). Serve with warm apple compote drizzled on top.