Chocolate Orange Biscotti

Name: Chocolate Orange Biscotti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 24 pieces
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3/4 cup cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp fresh orange zest; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Classic Ideas

I absolutely love making Chocolate Orange Biscotti, especially during the colder months when you want something warm with your coffee. The combination of rich chocolate and zesty orange creates such a delightful contrast that lifts the spirit. Baking these biscotti is a rewarding experience as they fill the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. I find that the crunchy texture is just perfect for dipping, making a cozy afternoon treat that I can't resist sharing with friends and family.

Created by

Unity Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:34:37.616Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by how easily the flavors meshed together. The zest of fresh orange adds a brightness that cuts through the richness of the chocolate, creating a perfect balance. I also discovered that letting the biscotti cool completely before slicing helps maintain that lovely crunch while preserving the delicate flavor.

To elevate your biscotti experience, I recommend pairing them with a good quality espresso or some freshly brewed tea. The combination of hot beverages with the crunchy chocolate-orange goodness is simply divine, making it a delightful treat for any occasion!

        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

The beauty of biscotti lies in its structure. The twice-baking method gives these treats their characteristic crunch, perfect for dipping into coffee or tea. The initial baking shapes the dough into logs at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until set but not overly browned. You know it’s ready when the logs feel firm but slightly soft to the touch. Allowing them to cool for 10 minutes before slicing helps maintain the shape during the second baking.

One of the key aspects of making great biscotti is the dough consistency. It should be pliable and not too sticky, allowing you to shape it without flouring your hands excessively. If you find your dough too dry, a tablespoon of milk or water can help bring it together. If it’s too wet, a little extra flour will do the trick. This balance is crucial for achieving that perfect crunchy texture.

Flavor Enhancements

The combination of rich cocoa and citrusy orange zest in this recipe plays a significant role in bringing depth to the flavors. You can enhance the chocolate experience by using high-quality dark chocolate chips, as they provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the sugar. If you prefer a less intense chocolate flavor, consider substituting half of the cocoa powder with a blend of all-purpose flour. This will still give you a lovely biscuit while softening the cocoa's boldness.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder to the dry ingredients. These warming spices complement the chocolate and orange beautifully. Additionally, feel free to zest in a little lemon or replace some of the orange zest with lemon for a twist that brings brightness to each bite.

Serving and Storage

Biscotti are perfect for sharing, whether with friends over coffee or as a treat during the holidays. Once cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. However, if you want to maximize freshness, consider freezing them. Place the biscotti in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag, and they can keep for up to 3 months. Just thaw and crisp them up in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

When serving, I love to pair these delicious biscotti with a side of melted chocolate, a sweet glaze, or even a simple orange marmalade. This adds an extra touch of indulgence and allows your guests to customize their experience. You can even host a biscotti tasting with different dips, exploring flavors that complement the chocolate-orange combination.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start your delightful baking journey.

Biscotti Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp fresh orange zest
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s bake some exquisite biscotti!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chocolate Orange Biscotti.

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Add in the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Whisk the eggs, vanilla, and orange zest together, then add this mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long. Place the logs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and flatten them slightly. Bake for 30 minutes until set, then cool for 10 minutes.

Slice and Second Bake

Using a sharp knife, slice the logs diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces. Arrange the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet. Bake again for 10 minutes, flip each piece, and bake another 10 minutes until crisp.

Allow the biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack before enjoying!

Pro Tips

For an extra special touch, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled biscotti or dip one end in chocolate before serving.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your biscotti seem excessively hard after the second baking, you may have baked them for too long. Keep an eye on them during the final bake, particularly if your oven tends to run hot. You can take them out when they appear lightly golden; they will firm up as they cool. In contrast, if they are soft and chewy after the second bake, they may need an additional few minutes. Just return them to the oven to dry out without browning too much.

Another common issue can be uneven slicing, which impacts baking. Use a serrated knife for slicing to achieve clean cuts without crushing the logs. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts to prevent sticking. This technique can also help ensure your biscotti maintain their shape and achieve uniform crispiness.

Making Ahead

Preparing your biscotti dough in advance can save time on busy baking days. The dough can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Ensure the dough is at room temperature before shaping it into logs; chilled dough can be challenging to shape correctly. Plan to bake them on the same day you plan to serve for the freshest outcome.

After baking and cooling, biscotti can be stored whole or cut into slices. If you're looking to make a larger batch, use a tablespoon measure to ensure even pieces and adjust your baking sheets accordingly. Just remember, more biscotti means a longer baking time during the initial bake, so monitor your logs closely as they bake.

Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe calls for all-purpose flour, you can easily swap it with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend if desired. Each alternative will impart a slightly different flavor and texture, but both can work well in this context. If opting for gluten-free, ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free for a completely safe treat.

In cases where you want to cut down on sugar, consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute suitable for baking. Just keep in mind that these alternatives may impact the final texture and flavor, so adjust your quantities accordingly. Additionally, for those sensitive to dairy, you can use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute to maintain the delicious consistency of the biscotti.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of citrus?

Absolutely! Lemons or limes would also work beautifully to add a different flavor.

→ How should I store the biscotti?

Store the cooled biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

→ Can I freeze these biscotti?

Yes, biscotti freeze well. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag and they will last for up to three months.

→ What can I serve with biscotti?

They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a glass of dessert wine!