Despite the fact that their strange appearance reminds me of the creepy crawly creatures that nest in dark places, and crawl across our floors or walls at the most unexpected times, dates are pretty delicious. Fruity, sticky, chewy, and naturally sweet, dates are pretty much nature's healthy candy.
But, of course, not all of us are date fans.
Some of us prefer chocolate in our desserts, some of us choose cranberries or raisins over other dried fruits, while others just like to keep it simple and nutty. How do you like your biscotti?
I think we can all agree that biscotti is most tasty when its got a good crunch. If it crumbles upon meeting the hot chocolate or dark coffee in our mugs, forget about it! That biscotti is a no-go. I'm more of a tea drinker, but even I hate scraping up the get-away crumbs clinging to the bottom of an otherwise empty cup.
So, to avoid that dilemma, let's choose a biscotti recipe that won't fail us! The one in the recipe card below is reliable, promise. It's based on someone else's scrumptious version, minus the butter and plus a few other ingredients (like the creepy looking dates :).
This gluten-free biscotti recipe will definitely yield dip-worthy treats that won't crumble under pressure! If you don't believe me, give it a whirl!
**Oops! Almost forgot :). Amy over at I am Celiac was sweet enough to feature me on her blog earlier this week! Go check out her blog and say hello!
Kitchen notes for Gluten-Free Spiced Date Biscotti with Maple Glaze
Gluten-free flours absorb liquid differently than wheat flour. If the batter or dough looks tighter than you expect, rest it for ten minutes so starches can hydrate, then judge the texture again before adding more liquid. Certified gluten-free oats, baking powder, and chocolate chips matter when you are baking for someone who must avoid gluten cross-contact.
Cookie texture is mostly about fat temperature and bake time. Chilled dough spreads less; a minute less in the oven keeps centres soft after cooling. For bar cookies and granola bars, line the pan with parchment so you can lift the slab out cleanly before cutting.
Storage: wrap tightly once cool. Most baked goods freeze well for up to a month; thaw at room temperature, then refresh briefly in a warm oven if you want a just-baked edge.
Serving ideas: portion Gluten-Free Spiced Date Biscotti with Maple Glaze while slightly warm when aroma matters most, and finish with a small garnish already in the recipe (zest, nuts, herbs, or a drizzle) rather than inventing new flavours.
Food safety reminder: refrigerate perishable fillings promptly, and when reheating leftovers, bring them to a steaming hot temperature throughout.
Further reading: coeliac disease guidance from the NHS.