Fig Newton Biscotti

Directions

1. 1
   Filling: Place the fruit in a small saucepan and cover with about 1/3 cup water.
2. 2
   Simmer 10-15 minutes on lowest heat, until fruit is slightly softened and most of the water is gone (if however, you need a bit more water to simmer, add a little at a time).
3. 3
   Remove from the stove and cool about 20 minutes before pureeing the fruit (drained) in a food processor, 1- 2 minutes.
4. 4
   Set aside.
5. 5
   In a mixing bowl, with a paddle attachment, cream the sugar and butter well, about 3 minutes.
6. 6
   Add the eggs, vanilla, orange oil and lemon juice and blend well, about 2 minutes.
7. 7
   Fold in the cinnamon, salt, baking powder, most of the flour and oatmeal, nuts, and mix until dough is thick and soft and holds together.
8. 8
   Add more flour if mixture is not stiff.
9. 9
   Spread half of batter on a baking sheet, top with the fruit paste, and cover with remaining biscotti batter.
10. 10
    Bake loaf for 40-45 minutes at 350*F. until just browned and firm to the touch.
11. 11
    Cool loaf to room temperature.
12. 12
    Cut loaf into diagonal slices, about one inch wide and return to baking sheet.
13. 13
    Decrease oven temperature to 325 F / 165C.
14. 14
    and bake cookies once more, to crisp, 15- 20 minutes.
15. 15
    Enjoy!