Chocolate Cantuccini

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. 2

   In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

3. 3

   In another bowl, beat sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.

4. 4

   Beat in eggs one at a time until well combined.

5. 5

   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.

6. 6

   Fold in the chopped almonds.

7. 7

   Divide the dough into two equal parts and shape each part into a log, about 2.5cm (1 inch) thick.

8. 8

   Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 5cm (2 inches) apart.

9. 9

   Bake for 25 minutes or until the logs are golden brown.

10. 10

    Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.

11. 11

    Reduce oven temperature to 150°C (300°F).

12. 12

    Slide the logs onto a cutting board and cut diagonally into 2.5cm (1 inch) slices.

13. 13

    Arrange the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

14. 14

    Let the cantuccini cool completely.

15. 15

    Melt the chopped chocolate in a double boiler or microwave.

16. 16

    Dip one end of each cantuccino into the melted chocolate and let the excess drip off.

17. 17

    Place the dipped cantuccini on a wire rack to set.