Chocolate Orange Biscotti

Name: Chocolate Orange Biscotti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
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 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Orange Biscotti, especially during the festive seasons or when I have guests over. The combination of rich dark chocolate and bright orange zest creates a delightful flavor that’s simply irresistible. Pairing these biscotti with a hot cup of coffee or tea brings out the best in both the cookie and your beverage. With each crunchy bite, you get the perfect hint of sweetness and a chewy texture that makes it hard to stop at just one. Trust me, these biscotti will become your new favorite treat!

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:52:13.824Z

When I first tried making Chocolate Orange Biscotti, I was surprised by how easy it was to infuse such vibrant flavors into this classic Italian cookie. The combination of orange zest and high-quality dark chocolate creates a complex taste that feels indulgent yet surprisingly light. I found that using a double bake method gives the biscotti their signature crunch while keeping the interior perfectly tender.

One tip I discovered through experimentation is to allow the biscotti to cool completely after the second bake before slicing. This ensures cleaner cuts and prevents them from crumbling. The result is a beautifully presented treat that’s perfect for gifting or entertaining!

        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

      

Understanding Biscotti

Biscotti are unique cookies that derive their characteristic crunch from a two-bake process. This method not only enhances their texture but also allows for versatility in flavors. When shaping your dough into a log, ensure it is about 2 inches wide and 1 inch high. This allows for an even bake and facilitates easy slicing into manageable pieces. If you prefer a softer biscotti, consider reducing the second bake time by a few minutes; however, be cautious to ensure they still hold their shape.

The inclusion of orange zest not only provides a fresh and aromatic burst of flavor but also helps to balance the richness of the dark chocolate. As you mix in the zest, it’s crucial to use fresh oranges for the best impact. Dried zest can lack the bright flavor and moisture that fresh zest imparts. If you have an intolerance to dairy or want to lighten the recipe, dairy-free chocolate chips can be seamlessly substituted without compromising the thoughtful combination of flavors.

Tips for Perfect Biscotti

For successful biscotti, consider the temperature of your ingredients. Room temperature eggs yield a more uniform batter and better incorporation with dry ingredients. If you're in a hurry, you can warm cold eggs gently in warm water for about 5 minutes to bring them to temperature quickly. Additionally, when mixing your ingredients, avoid overmixing after adding the dry to the wet to prevent tough biscotti—combine just until you see no dry flour.

When slicing your biscotti after the first bake, use a serrated knife and cut at a slight diagonal for beautifully shaped edges. This technique creates more surface area for toasting, enhancing the crunch. If you want to add some extra flavor, consider brushing the log with an egg wash before the first bake; it provides a delightful sheen on the finished biscotti.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

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 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 cup dark chocolate chips

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

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

Form the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a thick dough forms. Fold in chocolate chips.

Shape and Bake

Shape the dough into a log on the baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes.

Slice and Bake Again

Remove from the oven, let cool for 10 minutes, then slice into biscotti shapes and return to the oven for an additional 15 minutes.

Cool and Serve

Allow the biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoy these delicious biscotti with your favorite coffee or tea!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try dipping the cooled biscotti in melted chocolate before serving.

Storage Tips

Once your Chocolate Orange Biscotti are fully cooled, store them in an airtight container to maintain their crunchy texture. They can last for up to two weeks at room temperature, making them a great option for preparing in advance for gatherings. If you want to keep them for longer, biscotti freeze exceptionally well. Just make sure they’re sealed in freezer-safe bags, and they’ll hold their flavor for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature and enjoy as if they were freshly baked!

For a fun twist on storage, consider layering the biscotti with parchment paper in a decorative tin. This not only keeps them fresh but also makes for a lovely gift. Adding a note about the chocolate and orange pairing adds a personal touch for your recipients.

Serving Suggestions

Chocolate Orange Biscotti are perfect for dipping! Pair them with a high-quality espresso or a rich hot chocolate. You can also serve them alongside a citrus-infused tea, which compliments the orange zest beautifully. For a fun presentation, arrange the biscotti on a platter and sprinkle some additional orange zest over them just before serving for added freshness and color.

If you want to elevate your biscotti experience, consider pairing them with a homemade orange glaze. Simply whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and a touch of vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this over the cooled biscotti for an extra sweet finish that enhances both the chocolate and citrus notes.

Questions About Recipes

→ How do I store biscotti?

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

→ Can I freeze biscotti?

Yes, you can freeze biscotti for up to three months. Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.

→ What type of chocolate is best to use?

I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate, around 60-70% cocoa for the best flavor.

→ Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Adding chopped almonds or pistachios can give an extra crunch and flavor variety.