Best Biscotti Toscani Recipe

This makes a crunchier type of biscotti. Great for dipping into coffee and tea. For a more cookie-texture like biscotti, see prior recipe.
Makes 3 1/2 dozen.

1/2 C whole almonds
1/3 C butter
3/4 C sugar
2 eggs
1 t vanilla
1/2 t almond extract
1/4 t orange zest grated (optional)
2 1/4 C flour
1 1/2 t baking powder
1/8 t nutmeg
1/4 salt

Preheat oven to 325F.
Form on floured surface, 2 logs, 1/2 inch thick, 1 1/2 inch wide and 12 inches long
Bake at 325 for 25 minutes.
Cool for 5 minutes.
Cut diagonally at 45 degree angle, 1/2 in. thick.
Lay slices on baking sheet and return to oven for 10 minutes. Turn then over once, turn off oven and leave in for 5 more minutes.
Let cool on rack.
Store in a tightly covered container.
Form on floured surface