Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
Fold in the almonds and any optional ingredients like chocolate chips.
Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing each log into 1-inch pieces.
Place the sliced biscotti back on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 15 minutes, turning halfway through.