Paximadia

with cranberries and almonds

By: Eleni Saltas

Caught up in a delightful paximadia (Greek biscotti) baking spree lately, I wouldn’t be surprised if coffee sales are on the rise, as these twice baked cookies practically demand a perfect dunking partner. This particular paximadia rendition features plump dried cranberries and the zest of orange juice, infusing each bite with a holiday twist. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast like me or prefer the warmth of hot chocolate, these flavor-packed paximadia are versatile companions for your favorite beverage—or can be simply enjoyed as standalone bites.

Prep Time:

10min

Total Time:

60min

Servings:

~40 cookies

Good For:

Breakfast/Snack

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup vegetable oil or extra virgin olive oil   

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • ¼ cup packed brown sugar

  • 2/3 cup fresh orange juice

  • Zest of one orange

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 large egg, at room temperature

  • 3 to 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, as needed

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • ½ teaspoon baking soda

  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt

  • 1 cup chopped or slivered almonds

  • 1 cup dried cranberries


Step by Step Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350F. Lightly grease a baking sheet and set it aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine the oil, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, vanilla and egg. Mix well.

Step 2

In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt). Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft, but sticky (almost greasy) dough forms. You may need to knead with your hands. Fold in the almonds and cranberries.

Step 3

Divide the dough in half or thirds (depending on the size of your baking sheets) and place on the baking sheets. Shape the dough into long loaves, that are about 2 ½ inches wide and 1 inch thick. Smooth the tops and the sides of the dough with your hands or a wet bowl scraper. Score the loaves with a serrated knife to make it easier to cut later.

Step 4

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the loaves are golden.

Step 5

Allow the loaves cool for at least 5 minutes, then cut through the pre-scored slices. Lay the cookies cut side down and bake for another 20-25 minutes, turning the cookies over at the halfway mark. The cookies will become crispier the longer they bake—so adjust based on preference! Allow them to cool on baking sheets or a wire rack until cooled completely.

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