Chocolate Orange Biscotti

Name: Chocolate Orange Biscotti
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 24 biscotti
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup chopped almonds; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore baking Chocolate Orange Biscotti, as the combination of rich chocolate and zesty orange brings a unique twist to traditional biscotti. The crunchiness of these treats makes them perfect for dipping in coffee or tea. I love how they hold their shape during baking, maintaining that delightful crunch with every bite. This recipe is not just a favorite among friends and family; it also fills my kitchen with an irresistible aroma that everyone loves. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire!

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:25:11.909Z

When I first experimented with this Chocolate Orange Biscotti recipe, I was amazed by how well the flavors blended. The sweetness of chocolate perfectly balances the brightness of the orange, making each bite a delightful experience. To achieve this balance, I used fresh orange zest, which truly elevates the flavors compared to using orange extract. A simple trick I discovered was to toast the almonds beforehand; it enhances their nuttiness and adds a lovely crunch.

Another aspect I love about this biscotti is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite nuts or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. This recipe has become a go-to for holiday gatherings, as everyone appreciates having them with coffee. Plus, they make wonderful gifts when wrapped stylishly!

        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

      

Biscotti Basics

Biscotti is traditionally twice-baked, which gives it that signature firmness ideal for dipping. During the first bake, the logs should be set but still slightly soft to the touch; this ensures they don't become too dry before the second bake. If you find the dough too soft to shape, you can chill it for 15-20 minutes to make handling easier. The key here is achieving a firm yet pliable dough that holds its shape as it bakes.

When it comes to slicing the biscotti, use a serrated knife for the cleanest cuts. After the first bake, let the logs cool sufficiently to firm them up—about 15 minutes is ideal. This cooling period helps prevent the cookies from crumbling as you cut them into individual pieces. Each slice should be roughly 1 inch wide to ensure even baking times during the second bake.

Flavor Enhancements

The combination of chocolate and orange zest is not only delicious but also need a balance. Using fresh orange zest enhances the citrus aroma, while unsweetened cocoa powder gives the biscotti a deep, rich flavor without added sweetness. However, if you want a more intense orange flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of orange extract alongside the zest. This will elevate the citrus notes further, making each bite more flavorful.

For those looking to customize their biscotti, there's plenty of room for creativity. Swap the almonds for hazelnuts or pistachios if you prefer a different nut profile. You could also experiment by adding dried fruits like cranberries or cherries to introduce a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispiness of the biscotti.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to make the process easier.

For the Biscotti

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped almonds
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Make sure to sift your dry ingredients together for a smoother batter.

Instructions

Preheat your oven and line your baking sheet to prepare for baking.

Prepare the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the orange zest and vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Add Nuts and Chocolate

Fold in the chopped almonds and chocolate chips gently.

Shape the Biscotti

Divide the dough in half and shape it into two logs on the prepared baking sheet.

First Bake

Bake for 25 minutes until set. Remove and let cool for 15 minutes.

Slice and Second Bake

Slice each log diagonally into 1-inch pieces. Arrange them cut-side down on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes.

Cool and Serve

Allow the biscotti to cool completely before serving or storing.

Enjoy your homemade biscotti with a warm beverage!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use high-quality chocolate and fresh oranges. You can store biscotti in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Storage Tips

Proper storage of your biscotti is vital to preserving its delightful crunch. After they have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer-lasting biscotti, you can freeze them. Place the slices in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer; just thaw at room temperature before serving.

If you prefer your biscotti warmed, consider re-baking them briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes. This will refresh their texture and make them taste freshly baked without compromising mouthfeel or flavor.

Common Troubleshooting

One common issue when making biscotti is the dough being too dry or crumbly. This can happen if you accidentally measure flour too aggressively or add too much cocoa powder. If you encounter this, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water gradually until the dough comes together. A smooth but sturdy dough is desired for the perfect biscotti.

In contrast, if your biscotti spread too much during the first bake, the dough might have been too wet. Ensure to use precise measurements and, if necessary, adjust the flour or cocoa powder to achieve the right consistency. Keep in mind that biscotti dough is meant to be slightly sticky but manageable when shaping.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Yes, you can swap almonds for walnuts or hazelnuts based on your preference.

→ How do I store biscotti?

Store biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

→ Can I freeze biscotti?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag to store for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with biscotti?

Biscotti are perfect for dipping in coffee or tea, but they also pair well with dessert wines.