INGREDIENTS:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 tablespoon orange juice
2 teaspoons grated orange rind
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
1 cup walnuts, chopped finely
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1 egg white
Granulated sugar
METHOD:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar and eggs. Beat with an electric mixer on medium, scraping the bowl often for 2 to 3 minutes, or until pale and thick. Add oil, orange juice, rind, and vanilla; beat for 1 to 2 minutes, or until well mixed.
Gradually add flour mixture; mix on low speed for 1 to 2 minutes, or until well mixed. Stir in walnuts and cranberries.
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface [dough is soft and sticky]. Lightly sprinkle with additional flour; knead flour into the dough.
With floured hands, shape into two 8 x 2-inch logs. Place 3 inches apart on greased or parchment-covered baking sheet. Flatten tops slightly. Combine egg white and water; brush on logs. Sprinkle lightly with sugar.
Bake in preheated 350°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until lightly browned and firm to the touch. Let cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes.
Reduce oven temperature to 300°F.
With a sharp, serrated knife, cut logs diagonally into 1/2-inch slices; arrange slices cut-side-down on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until golden. Remove to wire rack; let cool completely.
YIELD: Makes about 2-1/2 dozen biscotti.
SOURCE: Adapted from a recipe at California Walnuts
