Indulge your senses with the delightful combination of rich dark chocolate and zesty orange in these irresistible Dark Chocolate Orange Biscotti! Perfect for dipping in your morning coffee or enjoying as a sweet afternoon treat, these Italian-style cookies offer a unique twist that will leave you craving more. With a crunchy exterior and a tender, chocolatey interior, this recipe is not just a snack; it's a culinary experience that will elevate your dessert game. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 24 biscotti
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly combined and no lumps remain.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in the fresh orange zest until evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a cohesive dough forms.
- Fold in dark chocolate chips gently using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a long, flat log about 12 inches long and 2-3 inches wide on the prepared baking sheet.
- Smooth the tops and sides of the logs with slightly dampened hands to create an even surface.
- Bake the logs for 25-30 minutes, or until they are firm to the touch and slightly cracked on top.
- Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
- Using a sharp serrated knife, carefully slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices.
- Arrange the biscotti slices cut-side down on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crisp and dry.
- Transfer biscotti to a wire rack and let cool completely. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
- Optional: Melt additional dark chocolate and drizzle or dip the cooled biscotti for extra decadence.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Tips
- Measure Accurately: Ensure your flour and cocoa powder are measured accurately for the perfect texture. Spoon them into your measuring cup and level off with a knife for precision.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for about 15-20 minutes before shaping. This will make it easier to form the logs.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh orange zest is key to achieving that vibrant flavor. Make sure to use a zester or microplane to get the most out of your oranges.
- Bake in Batches: If you’re making multiple trays, bake them one at a time in the center of the oven to ensure even cooking.
- Perfect Slicing: Use a serrated knife to slice the logs; this will help you achieve clean cuts without crumbling the biscotti.
- Customize Your Chocolate: Feel free to mix in different types of chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor and texture. White chocolate or hazelnuts can be a delicious alternative!
- Store Properly: To keep your biscotti fresh and crunchy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to two weeks—if they last that long!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 35mg
