Chocolate Orange Biscotti

Name: Chocolate Orange Biscotti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
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; Zest of 1 orange; 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Orange Biscotti because it combines two of my favorite flavors: rich chocolate and zesty orange. This recipe has become a favorite for gift-giving during the holidays or simply enjoying with my morning coffee. The biscotti are crunchy yet satisfying, and the orange zest adds a bright note that perfectly complements the deep cocoa flavor. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, I find that it's a delightful way to elevate my baking and impress friends and family alike.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-11T23:58:07.007Z

When I first tried making Chocolate Orange Biscotti, I was surprised at how perfectly the flavors harmonized together. Orange zest adds a refreshing lightness that cuts through the richness of chocolate. I personally recommend using high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor. I've made these cookies countless times, and they never disappoint!

My favorite part about this recipe is how versatile it is—I often experiment by adding nuts or swapping in different citrus fruits. Baking them twice gives them that signature crunch, and I find that letting them cool completely enriches their texture and flavor. It's a perfect treat for any cookie lover!

        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 the Ingredients

The key to achieving the perfect balance in Chocolate Orange Biscotti lies in the combination of cocoa powder and fresh orange zest. The cocoa provides a rich, deep flavor that is complemented by the bright, zesty notes of the orange. Ensure you use freshly grated zest for the best flavor; store-bought zest can lack the necessary vibrancy. Remember, the orange zest should be finely grated to prevent any large pieces from overpowering the texture of the biscotti.

The chocolate chips you choose are also crucial to the success of this recipe. Semisweet chocolate chips enhance the chocolate flavor without being overly sweet. If you're looking for a more sophisticated taste, consider using dark chocolate chips. For a twist, you can substitute a portion with white chocolate or even orange-infused chocolate chips to amplify the citrus profile.

Biscotti Baking Tips

When shaping the dough into a log, try to maintain a uniform thickness. This ensures consistent baking and helps the biscotti develop a perfect crunch. If the dough is too sticky to handle, lightly dust your hands with flour. Keep in mind that underbaking the first log phase slightly is preferable, as it allows for a better crumb when slicing into pieces later. You want it to be just firm enough to slice without crumbling away.

Pay close attention during the second bake; this is where the biscotti achieves its delightful crunch. Bake until the edges are golden brown and the biscotti feel firm to the touch. Once you remove them from the oven, resist the temptation to eat them right away. Cooling completely on a wire rack is essential for developing that characteristic biscotti texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delightful 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
Zest of 1 orange
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature to ensure even mixing.

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake the perfect Chocolate Orange Biscotti.

Prep the Oven

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

Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs with the vanilla extract and orange zest. Gradually stir this mixture into the dry ingredients.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Shape the Dough

Transfer the dough onto the prepared baking sheet and form it into a log about 12 inches long and 3 inches wide.

First Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until slightly firm to the touch. Remove from oven and let cool for about 10 minutes.

Slice and Second Bake

After cooling, slice the log into 1-inch thick pieces and arrange them cut-side down on the baking sheet. Bake for another 15 minutes.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy with your favorite beverage!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider dipping the cooled biscotti in white chocolate or drizzling it with melted chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness.

Storage and Shelf Life

Once cooled, store your biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy them at a later date without losing their crunch. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the toaster oven for a few minutes to refresh their texture.

For those who enjoy experimenting, you might consider dipping half of the biscotti in melted chocolate after the second bake. This adds an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal, making them even more perfect for gifting. Just remember to let the chocolate set completely before storing or serving.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to customize your Chocolate Orange Biscotti by adding nuts or dried fruits. Chopped almonds or pistachios can add a lovely crunch, while dried cranberries or cherries give a sweet-tart flavor that complements the orange beautifully. When adding, keep the total volume of mix-ins to about 1 cup to maintain the dough’s structure and consistency.

If you’d like to experiment with flavors, consider substituting the vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty twist. Additionally, swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend works well without compromising the biscotti’s texture, making it a delightful treat for everyone. Just ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these biscotti without the cocoa powder?

Absolutely! You can substitute with more flour or add almond or vanilla flavoring for a different twist.

→ How do I store leftover biscotti?

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

→ Can I freeze biscotti?

Yes, biscotti can be frozen. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with biscotti?

Biscotti are perfect with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, and even great for gifting during the holidays!