Chocolate Orange Biscotti

Name: Chocolate Orange Biscotti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 biscotti
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 1 orange; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Modern Collection

I absolutely love baking these Chocolate Orange Biscotti, especially during the holiday season. The combination of rich chocolate and fresh orange zest creates a delightful twist that makes these treats truly special. We enjoy them as a sweet snack or paired with coffee during our gatherings, and they never fail to impress. The key to achieving that perfect crunch lies in the double-baking method, which enhances their texture and flavor. With this recipe, you'll be able to create a batch that will disappear in no time!

Created by

Lottie Pennington

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:10:37.420Z

When I first experimented with this Chocolate Orange Biscotti recipe, I wasn't sure how well the flavors would blend. To my delight, the subtle orange zest perfectly complemented the decadent chocolate, making each bite irresistible. My family raved about them and I knew I had stumbled upon a winning combination.

While crafting these biscotti, I discovered that letting the dough rest for a few minutes before slicing really helps maintain their shape during baking. This little tip made a significant difference, resulting in beautifully uniform biscotti that I couldn't wait to share. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it over and over!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Crunchy texture that’s perfect for dipping
Easily stored for later enjoyment

      

Biscotti Baking Techniques

The double-baking method is essential for achieving that signature crunch in biscotti. After the initial bake, allowing the log to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing prevents crumbling while cutting. Slicing should be done carefully to maintain the integrity of each piece. Make sure your knife is sharp to ensure clean cuts—this will help keep each piece uniform in thickness, promoting even baking during the second round.

During the second bake, place the slices cut-side down to enhance that crispiness. Keep an eye on them and aim for a golden color on the edges, which indicates they are ready to come out. Depending on your oven, this second bake can vary slightly in required time, so check them around the 10-minute mark. You want the biscotti to be hard, but not overly dark.

Ingredient Insights

Using unsweetened cocoa powder rather than sweetened gives you control over the sugar level in your biscotti. For an even richer chocolate flavor, consider using Dutch-processed cocoa powder, which lends a smoother taste and darker color. The zest of an orange is key here; not only does it add a refreshing citrus note, but it also brightens the chocolate flavor, making each bite more complex.

If you’re looking for alternatives, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor, but be mindful that this may change the texture slightly. Also, consider dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a deeper chocolate experience, or even white chocolate if you want to experiment with a different flavor profile.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once baked and cooled, store your biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them in a resealable bag for up to three months. Just remember to let them cool completely before freezing to avoid moisture buildup, which could affect their texture.

These chocolate orange biscotti make wonderful gifts during the holiday season! Pairing them with gourmet coffee or a flavored tea can turn your snack into a perfect pairing experience. You can also drizzle a bit of melted chocolate over the cooled biscotti for an extra touch of indulgence, or add chopped nuts to the dough for added crunch.

Ingredients

For the Biscotti

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange
1/2 cup chocolate chips

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 flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat together sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Add orange zest and mix well.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips.

Shape the Dough

Turn dough onto a floured surface. Shape into a log about 12 inches long and 3 inches wide. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.

First Bake

Bake for 25 minutes or until firm. Let cool for 10 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).

Slice the Log

Carefully slice the log into 3/4-inch thick pieces.

Second Bake

Place the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until crisp.

Cool and Serve

Allow to cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy your Biscotti with coffee or tea!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try dipping the biscotti in melted dark chocolate after baking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your biscotti seems too soft after the first bake, it may need more time in the oven or a slightly cooler oven temperature during subsequent bakes. Always trust your judgment when it comes to doneness rather than strictly adhering to time indicators alone.

To avoid crumbly biscotti when slicing, make sure your dough is well mixed but not over-kneaded. Overworking the dough can lead to a tough texture. If you find your biscotti too dry after baking, try reducing the baking time slightly or adding an extra egg to the batter next time for improved moisture.

Variations to Try

For more flavor depth, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to your dry ingredients, which complement chocolate beautifully. You could also swap the orange zest for lemon or peppermint extract to create a different flavor profile, making it versatile for various occasions.

If you want to make these gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that you may need to experiment slightly with the ratios to achieve the perfect texture, as gluten-free flour can absorb moisture differently than regular flour.

Make-Ahead Ideas

These biscotti can easily be made ahead of time, perfect for prepping for holiday gatherings or last-minute visitors. Simply follow the recipe up to the slicing point and store the unbaked log in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, just slice and enjoy the fresh aroma filling your kitchen.

Alternatively, you can bake a larger batch and freeze individual slices. When you want a quick treat, just pop them in the oven for a few minutes to re-crisp. This method works wonders and keeps them tasting fresh!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cocoa powder?

Yes, you can use carob powder for a caffeine-free alternative.

→ How should I store the biscotti?

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

→ Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts can be added for extra crunch.

→ What can I serve with biscotti?

They're perfect with coffee, tea, or even a dessert wine!