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 granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 3 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp grated orange zest; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love baking, especially when it results in delicious treats like Chocolate Orange Biscotti. The combination of rich chocolate and bright orange zest creates a delightful contrast that is simply irresistible. These biscotti are the perfect companion to my afternoon coffee or tea. I enjoy experimenting with different flavors, and this sweet and zesty variation has quickly become one of my favorites. Each bite not only offers a fantastic crunch but also an uplifting burst of citrus that brightens my day.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:49:18.442Z

I can still remember the first time I made Chocolate Orange Biscotti. The aroma of the dough baking filled my kitchen with a sweet, tantalizing scent that made my mouth water. I carefully watched as they doubled in size, forming that delightful crunch we're all looking for in biscotti.

One little tip I've discovered is to let the biscotti cool completely before slicing them into pieces. This way, the edges stay crisp, and each slice is easy to handle. The combination of chocolate and orange zest truly elevates this classic treat!

        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

      

The Role of Chocolate and Orange

The rich dark chocolate in this biscotti not only adds a decadent flavor but also incorporates a velvety texture that complements the crunchiness of the biscotti itself. Using high-quality dark chocolate chips elevates the overall taste; I recommend selecting chips with at least 60% cocoa content for the best flavor contrast with the citrus. The chocolate should be melted slightly during the mixing process, but be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause it to seize up and lose its smooth quality.

Orange zest, freshly grated, is essential because it provides the bright pop of citrus that balances the deep chocolate notes. When grating the orange, avoid the white pith as it can impart a bitter flavor. Instead, focus on the outer rind. The zest should release a fragrant oil, enough to fill your kitchen with its refreshing aroma, which will enhance the enjoyment of both making and eating the biscotti.

Perfecting the Biscotti Texture

Achieving the ideal biscotti texture requires careful monitoring of the baking time. During the first bake, the log should firm up but remain slightly soft in the center; this is critical for the subsequent slicing. If your log feels overly hard, it may result in tough biscotti after the second bake. Use gentle pressure when cutting, ideally with a serrated knife, to get clean edges and avoid crumbling.

The second bake is where the biscotti transforms, turning from a soft dough into a satisfyingly crunchy treat. Laying the slices flat helps ensure that all sides crisp up evenly. Keep a close watch during this time, as they can go from perfectly golden to overly browned quickly. You want them to be firm but not overly dry—checking at the 10-minute mark can help find that perfect balance.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create delicious Chocolate Orange Biscotti:

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp grated orange zest
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature before starting for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your Chocolate Orange Biscotti:

Preheat the Oven

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with sugar until pale and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and orange zest; mix well.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir in the chocolate chips and walnuts until evenly distributed.

Shape the Dough

Transfer the dough onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a log about 2 inches wide and 1 inch high.

First Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until firm but slightly soft in the center. Remove and let cool for 10 minutes.

Slice the Biscotti

Using a serrated knife, slice the log diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces.

Second Bake

Lay the slices flat on the baking sheet and return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes until crisp.

Cool and Enjoy

Let the biscotti cool completely before serving. Enjoy with your favorite beverage!

Storing biscotti in an airtight container will keep them fresh for up to two weeks.

Pro Tips

For an added burst of flavor, consider dipping the cooled biscotti in melted dark chocolate before serving.

Storing Your Biscotti

Once cooled, store your Chocolate Orange Biscotti in an airtight container to maintain their crunch. They can last for up to two weeks, making them ideal for enjoying over time or sharing with friends. For longer storage, consider wrapping the biscotti individually and freezing them. They freeze beautifully and can be thawed at room temperature when you're ready to indulge.

If you notice your biscotti losing their crispness, a quick oven refresh can revive them. Simply place them back in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This method will help recrisp them without altering their delightful flavor.

Personalizing the Recipe

Feel free to experiment with different nuts or flavorings! Instead of walnuts, try pistachios or hazelnuts for a unique twist, or add a bit of almond extract in place of some vanilla for an additional layer of flavor. Each variation brings its own charm, and I love discovering new combinations during my baking adventures.

For a sweeter biscuit, you could also reduce the cocoa powder slightly and increase the sugar. Alternatively, if you're looking to cut down on sugar, consider using a sugar substitute that measures like sugar. However, always keep in mind how substitutions may affect the dough's structure and moisture balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these biscotti gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.

→ How long do these biscotti last?

When stored in an airtight container, they can last up to two weeks.

→ Can I add other nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! You can use almonds, pistachios, or even omit the nuts altogether.

→ What beverages pair well with Chocolate Orange Biscotti?

These biscotti pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a nice dessert wine.