SICILIAN ORANGE-NUT BISCOTTI

Steps:

• In a mixing bowl, combine 1-1/4 c. flour, 1/2 c. sugar, 1/2 t. baking soda and a pinch of salt. In a smaller bowl, whisk together 2 medium eggs, 2 T. orange peel (or 1/2 t. orange oil), 1/2 t real vanilla and 1/2 t. anise seed. Stir this mixture into dry ingredients. Add 1 c. toasted, chopped hazelnuts and mix well. Divide dough in halves or thirds. Shape into logs on a well-floured surface. Transfer to a baking sheet that is lined with parchment or sprayed with Pam. Bake in a 300 deg. preheated oven for 20 minutes. Logs should be firm and very lightly browned. Cool at least 5 minutes, cut into 3/4" diagonal slices and return to oven, baking an additional 15 minutes. Cool on rack.