Holiday Baking in the Rockies: Almond Biscotti with the Bluestar French Door Convection Oven
As the snow begins to blanket the Colorado Rockies and the scent of pine fills the air, it’s the perfect time to warm your kitchen with the aroma of fresh-baked holiday treats.
As the snow begins to blanket the Colorado Rockies and the scent of pine fills the air, it’s the perfect time to warm your kitchen with the aroma of fresh-baked holiday treats. Whether you’re in Greenwood Village or Aspen, nothing says “cozy and thoughtful” quite like a homemade gift from the oven. One of our seasonal favorites? Almond Biscotti—a crisp, elegant cookie that pairs perfectly with hot cocoa, after-dinner espresso, or a glass of vin santo.
And there’s no better way to bake a big batch of biscotti than in the Bluestar French Door Convection Ovenavailable at Specialty Appliance showrooms throughout Colorado.
Why Bake with the Bluestar French Door Convection Oven?
Bluestar’s commercial-style oven is a game-changer for serious home bakers. The BSEWO30SDV3 model offers:
Key Features:
- French Door Access: Open both doors with one hand for smooth access when rotating trays or checking doneness.
- True European Convection: Ensures even browning and consistent texture, especially important when baking biscotti twice.
- Generous Capacity: Bake multiple sheets of cookies at once—ideal for holiday prep or edible gift-giving.
Whether you’re baking in Denver or prepping for a snowy brunch in Vail, Bluestar brings pro-level performance to your mountain kitchen.
Almond Biscotti Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutesbr>
Bake Time: 45 minutes total
Yields: 2-3 dozen
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup sliced almonds, lightly toasted
- Optional: white chocolate or dark chocolate for drizzling/dipping
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat & Prep
Preheat your Bluestar convection oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make the Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, vanilla, and almond extract. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until combined. Fold in the toasted almonds.
- Shape & First Bake
Divide the dough in half. On your prepared baking sheet, shape each half into a log about 12 inches long and 2–3 inches wide. Flatten the tops slightly.
Bake in the Bluestar convection oven for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch. Thanks to the even airflow in the convection system, both logs will bake uniformly—even on a double tray.
- Slice & Second Bake
Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Reduce oven temperature to 300°F. Using a serrated knife, slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch pieces.
Arrange the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet and return to the oven. Bake for 8–10 minutes per side, flipping once, until crisp and golden. Bluestar’s convection ensures an even, toasty crunch on every biscotti.
- Optional Garnish
Drizzle cooled biscotti with melted white or dark chocolate for an extra festive finish.
Gifting & Storage Tips
- Package biscotti in cellophane bags with a ribbon or add to holiday cookie tins.
- Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- Perfect with morning coffee or tucked into a holiday gift basket.
Learn more: 6 High-End Kitchen Appliances That Define Luxury Living
Visit Specialty Appliance
From Greenwood Village to Aspen, Specialty Appliance is your destination for top-tier culinary tools. Stop by your local showroom to see the Bluestar French Door Convection Oven in action—and let our team help you bring your holiday baking dreams to life.
Ready to elevate your kitchen this season? Visit us in-store or online to explore Bluestar and other luxury cooking appliances.
Happy Holidays & Sweet Baking,
From Your Friends at Specialty Appliance
Let us know what you’re baking this season by tagging us on Instagram or Facebook. We love seeing your Colorado kitchen creations.