Dark Chocolate Orange Biscotti: Crunchy, Citrusy, and Decadently Delicious

Dark Chocolate Orange Biscotti are the perfect balance of rich, bittersweet chocolate and bright, zesty orange flavor. These crunchy, twice-baked Italian cookies are ideal for dipping into coffee, tea, or even a glass of dessert wine. With a crisp exterior and satisfying crunch, they offer a sophisticated twist on a classic treat, blending the indulgence of chocolate with the refreshing citrus aroma of orange. Biscotti are traditionally baked twice to achieve their signature crisp texture, which makes them perfect for long storage, gifting, or enjoying as a snack throughout the week.

The combination of dark chocolate and orange elevates these cookies, making them not only a delicious treat but also a visually appealing addition to any dessert platter. Whether for breakfast with your morning coffee, a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or an elegant homemade gift, Dark Chocolate Orange Biscotti bring a touch of Italian elegance and rich flavor to your kitchen. Their combination of bittersweet chocolate and vibrant orange zest is irresistible, providing a perfect balance of sweet and citrusy notes in every crunchy bite.

Ingredients Needed

Ingredient	Amount	Approx. Calories
All-purpose flour	2 cups (240 g)	910
Granulated sugar	¾ cup (150 g)	580
Unsweetened cocoa powder	¼ cup (25 g)	100
Baking powder	1 tsp	5
Salt	½ tsp	0
Eggs	2 large	140
Unsalted butter (softened)	3 tbsp (45 g)	320
Orange zest	2 tsp	5
Dark chocolate chips or chunks	¾ cup (130 g)	700
Vanilla extract	1 tsp	12

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

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

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

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

3. Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, lightly beat the eggs, softened butter, vanilla extract, and orange zest.

4. Combine Ingredients

Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips or chunks.

5. Shape the Dough

Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Place logs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.

6. First Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes until firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.

7. Slice and Second Bake

Using a sharp knife, slice the logs diagonally into ½-inch thick slices. Place slices cut-side down on the baking sheet. Bake for an additional 10–12 minutes, flip them over, and bake for another 10 minutes until golden and crisp.

8. Cool and Store

Allow biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Nuts: Add chopped almonds, pistachios, or hazelnuts for extra crunch.
• Chocolate Variations: Use milk chocolate or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm flavor twist.
• Citrus Twist: Substitute orange zest with lemon or tangerine zest.
• Glaze: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled biscotti for a fancy touch.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~160–180
Carbohydrates	22–25 g
Fat	8–10 g
Protein	3–4 g
Sugar	12–14 g

Serving Suggestions

• Pair Dark Chocolate Orange Biscotti with your morning coffee or espresso.
• Enjoy as a crunchy snack with a cup of hot tea.
• Serve with dessert wine, like Vin Santo, for a classic Italian treat.
• Package in decorative tins or cellophane bags for homemade gifts.
• Crumble over ice cream or yogurt for a textured dessert topping.

FAQs

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes! Milk chocolate or even white chocolate can be used, but dark chocolate provides a richer flavor that pairs beautifully with orange zest.

2. Can I make biscotti without eggs?

Eggs are essential for structure in biscotti, but you can try an egg substitute like flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) for a vegan version.

3. How do I store biscotti?

Store biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

4. Can I add nuts or dried fruit?

Absolutely. Chopped almonds, pistachios, or dried cranberries pair wonderfully with the chocolate and orange flavors.

5. Why are biscotti baked twice?

The double baking process gives biscotti their signature crunch, making them perfect for dipping in coffee or tea.

Conclusion

Dark Chocolate Orange Biscotti are a sophisticated, crunchy, and flavorful treat that perfectly balances rich chocolate with bright, zesty orange. Easy to bake, versatile, and long-lasting, they are perfect for breakfast, afternoon coffee breaks, gifting, or elegant dessert platters. With their crisp texture and irresistible flavor, these biscotti are sure to become a beloved homemade favorite in your kitchen.