Chocolate Orange Biscotti

Name: Chocolate Orange Biscotti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 24 biscotti
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup almond slivers; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Orange Biscotti as they combine two of my favorite flavors seamlessly. The blend of rich chocolate and zesty orange creates a delightful balance that surprises the palate. Biscotti are perfect for dipping in coffee or tea, making them an ideal treat for cozy evenings or festive gatherings. Plus, they keep wonderfully, so I often bake a big batch to share with friends and family. This recipe is straightforward, allowing even novice bakers to enjoy the satisfaction of homemade treats.

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:10:23.383Z

As I was experimenting with different biscotti recipes, I stumbled upon the combination of chocolate and orange, and I knew I had to give it a try. The result was a crunchy yet tender treat that had just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of citrus. I learned that baking them twice is essential for achieving that signature crunch, but it also helps to enhance the flavors with each roast.

During one of my baking sessions, I decided to zest the oranges instead of using extracts. This small change made a significant difference! The fresh zest not only brightened the overall taste but also provided a lovely aroma in my kitchen. It’s the little details like this that truly elevate the experience of baking at home.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Science of Biscotti

Biscotti, by definition, are twice-baked cookies, which contributes to their characteristic crunch. The first baking helps solidify the dough, while the second baking is crucial for achieving the perfect crispiness. It’s essential to keep a close eye on them during the second bake; the ideal biscotti should be golden and hard to the touch. If they don’t feel firm enough after the second bake, you can always return them to the oven for a few extra minutes to ensure they reach that delightful texture.

Almond slivers add a nutty taste that complements the chocolate and orange, but they're also crucial for texture. When selecting nuts, opt for slivered almonds instead of whole ones to ensure even distribution throughout the dough. If you prefer a different flavor, feel free to substitute with walnuts or even pistachios. Just be cautious about the roasting stage of the nuts; lightly toasting them beforehand can enhance their flavor even further.

Dough Consistency Tips

Getting the dough's texture right is vital for successful biscotti. It should be somewhat sticky but manageable. If you find the dough too dry, a tablespoon of milk can be added to enhance moisture. Conversely, if it’s too wet, incrementally adding small amounts of flour until you reach the right consistency will help. Remember, the dough will be easier to shape after it sits for a few minutes, so don’t rush the process.

When forming the logs, aim for an even thickness to promote uniform baking. A diameter of about 2 inches is ideal. If you’ve never shaped dough before, dampening your hands slightly can help to avoid sticking. Additionally, use an offset spatula to smooth the tops for a more polished look before baking.

Serving and Storage

Biscotti are perfect for pairing with your favorite hot beverages. They are especially delightful when dipped in coffee or a glass of dessert wine, making them a sophisticated addition to any gathering. Consider serving these with a small plate of fresh orange slices or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch on your dessert table.

For storage, allow the biscotti to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can last for up to two weeks at room temperature, retaining their crunch. For longer storage, they freeze well; just ensure they're in a freezer-safe container or bag. To enjoy frozen biscotti, simply let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in a toaster for a few minutes for a fresh-baked taste.

Ingredients

For the Biscotti

2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup almond slivers
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix these ingredients thoroughly for the best flavor.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Combine dry ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Mix wet ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the orange zest and vanilla extract.

Combine wet and dry

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until everything is well combined. Stir in the chocolate chips and almond slivers.

Form logs and bake

Divide the dough in half and form two logs on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until firm.

Slice and bake twice

Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Slice into biscotti pieces and return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes until crisp.

Let the biscotti cool completely before serving or storing.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled biscotti before serving.

Variations to Try

While this Chocolate Orange Biscotti recipe is classic, don’t hesitate to experiment! To switch things up, consider adding spices like cinnamon or cardamom to the dry ingredients for a warm twist. Alternatively, swap out some of the chocolate chips for dried cranberries or apricots for a fruity burst. You can also try different types of chocolate, like milk or white chocolate, which will change the flavor profile significantly and suit different palates.

If you want to make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients together. This adjustment maintains the biscotti's structure and texture, allowing everyone to enjoy this delightful treat regardless of dietary restrictions.

Troubleshooting Biscotti

If you find that your biscotti turned out too hard or dry, it could be a result of overbaking during the second bake. Keep a close watch on them during the final minutes in the oven. For next time, you can reduce the bake time by one or two minutes after slicing to help maintain a bit of softness. Remember, they will continue to harden as they cool, so take them out when they’re just firm.

On the flip side, if your biscotti crumbled apart while slicing, it may be due to insufficient cooling time after the first bake. Allowing them to cool for at least 10 minutes is essential as it helps to set the structure before slicing. In case they break, crumble, or you simply prefer a smoother look, consider making cookie crumbs to use in desserts like ice cream sundaes or to sprinkle on yogurt.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute any other type of nut?

Yes, you can use walnuts or pecans instead of almond slivers if you prefer.

→ How should I store the biscotti?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

→ Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How can I enhance the orange flavor?

You can add a few drops of orange extract along with the zest for a more intense flavor.