Chocolate Almond Biscotti
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Whenever I bake Chocolate Almond Biscotti, it brings back fond memories of holiday gatherings and cozy afternoons. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy almonds creates a satisfying contrast that I just can't resist. I love how simple the process is, allowing me to indulge my creativity by customizing the flavors. With each bite, I’m transported to a café in Italy, making this recipe a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.
As I experimented with different recipes, I found that the balance between the sweetness of chocolate and the nuttiness of almonds is key to creating the perfect biscotti. By adding espresso powder, I boost the chocolate flavor, resulting in a treat that pairs well with my morning coffee. It's crucial to allow them to cool completely before slicing; this helps achieve that signature crunch we all love.
I also discovered that these biscotti store well in an airtight container, maintaining their crisp texture for weeks. They make an excellent homemade gift, wrapped beautifully, reminding everyone that sometimes, the best things are made with a bit of love.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy almonds
- Perfectly crisp exterior with a soft center
- Ideal for gifting or enjoying with coffee
Understanding Your Ingredients
The key to an incredible Chocolate Almond Biscotti lies in the quality of your ingredients. Using high-quality cocoa powder enhances the chocolate flavor, making the biscotti rich and decadent. Don't hesitate to select a premium brand as it can significantly affect the overall taste of your cookie. Additionally, choosing fresh almonds will contribute a delightful crunch, providing that contrast you crave in every bite.
When it comes to the chocolate chips, semi-sweet chips work beautifully, but feel free to experiment with dark chocolate or even white chocolate for a different flavor profile. If you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free cookie, you can substitute the almonds with toasted sunflower seeds or even a mix of seeds for a similar crunch.
Perfecting Your Technique
Shaping the biscotti dough correctly is crucial for a uniform bake. When forming your log, aim for a height of about 3 inches and an even, rectangular shape to ensure that the biscotti bake evenly. If the dough feels too sticky, lightly flour your hands rather than adding more flour to the mixture, which could result in a tougher texture. Also, don’t worry if it’s slightly uneven; rustic is in, and it adds character!
For the second bake, keep a close eye on the biscotti as they can go from perfectly crisp to over-baked quickly. A good cue is when the edges begin to turn golden brown. You want them to have a crunchy exterior but still retain some moisture inside, providing that signature softness in the center that balances out the crunch. It’s a fine line, but monitoring them closely will ensure the perfect texture.
Ingredients
For the Biscotti
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Combine all the ingredients together for the perfect biscotti dough!
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until combined. Fold in the chopped almonds and chocolate chips.
Shape and Bake
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a log about 12 inches long and 3 inches wide. Place it on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until firm to the touch. Remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
Slice and Second Bake
Using a serrated knife, slice the log diagonally into 1/2 inch thick pieces. Arrange the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet and return them to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until they are crisp. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Almond Biscotti!
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the dry ingredients. Storing the biscotti in an airtight container will keep them fresh for weeks, making them perfect for future indulgence or gifting.
Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Almond Biscotti are a delightful treat on their own, but they shine even more when paired with beverages. A cup of rich espresso or a creamy cappuccino elevates the experience, bringing out the chocolate notes in the biscotti. They are also a wonderful companion to a cold glass of milk after a long day.
For a special treat, you can dip half of the biscotti in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts or sea salt before allowing them to set. This additional layer of chocolate not only enhances the flavor but also adds an appealing visual element. Consider presenting these biscotti in decorative packaging as a thoughtful homemade gift during holidays or celebrations.
Storage Tips
To maintain freshness, store your biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to two weeks without losing their wonderful crunch. If you've made a large batch, consider freezing individual pieces. Lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag for later enjoyment—just remember to thaw them at room temperature before serving.
If you notice the biscotti starting to soften over time, a quick re-crisping in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes will restore their perfect texture. Just keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake during the process!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I substitute the almonds with another nut?
Absolutely! You can use walnuts, pistachios, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor.
→ How should I store the biscotti?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crisp texture for up to two weeks.
→ Can I freeze biscotti?
Yes! You can freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped.
→ What can I pair biscotti with?
Biscotti pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even dessert wines. Enjoy them as a delightful treat on their own!
Chocolate Almond Biscotti
Whenever I bake Chocolate Almond Biscotti, it brings back fond memories of holiday gatherings and cozy afternoons. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy almonds creates a satisfying contrast that I just can't resist. I love how simple the process is, allowing me to indulge my creativity by customizing the flavors. With each bite, I’m transported to a café in Italy, making this recipe a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.
Created by: Perrie Lawson
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 biscotti
What You'll Need
For the Biscotti
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until combined. Fold in the chopped almonds and chocolate chips.
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a log about 12 inches long and 3 inches wide. Place it on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until firm to the touch. Remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
Using a serrated knife, slice the log diagonally into 1/2 inch thick pieces. Arrange the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet and return them to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until they are crisp. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the dry ingredients. Storing the biscotti in an airtight container will keep them fresh for weeks, making them perfect for future indulgence or gifting.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 40mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 2g