Chocolate Almond Biscotti
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I love making these Chocolate Almond Biscotti because they're the perfect accompaniment to my afternoon coffee. The rich chocolate and crunchy almonds create a delightful texture that I find irresistible. Each bite is a wonderful balance of deep cocoa flavors and nutty goodness, making it a real treat to enjoy. Plus, the best part is how easy they are to whip up; in just a short while, I can create a batch that's perfect for sharing—with friends, family, or simply indulging myself!
Making these Chocolate Almond Biscotti has become a cherished ritual in my kitchen. I've experimented with various flavors, but the combination of dark chocolate paired with toasted almonds is simply unmatched. The technique of double-baking is crucial; it results in that iconic crunch, and I've learned that slicing them while they're still warm helps maintain clean edges for a beautiful presentation.
Whenever I share these with others, the response is always the same: pure delight! I usually dip them in melted dark chocolate for an extra touch of decadence. It's a trick I've adopted that brings these biscotti to a whole new level, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying during a quiet evening at home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy toasted almonds
- Buys you the perfect amount of time to enjoy a cup of coffee.
- A versatile treat that can be personalized with different nuts or spices.
Mastering the Biscotti Texture
The key to achieving that perfect biscotti texture lies in the initial baking phase. You want to bake the log until it is firm to the touch and slightly puffed, which usually takes about 25 minutes. This sets the foundation for the crunchiness you desire. If your log isn't firm enough after the first bake, it can result in a chewy instead of crunchy biscotti. Don’t be tempted to skip the cooling time; letting it rest for 15 minutes makes slicing much easier and prevents crumbling.
When slicing the cooled log, aim for 1/2-inch thick pieces for the ideal balance of crunch and bite. A serrated knife works best here; it ensures clean cuts without compressing the biscotti. If you encounter some crumbs during this process, don’t worry—the small bits add to the texture, and you can always enjoy them as a little treat on their own.
Ingredient Insights
Using high-quality cocoa powder makes a significant difference in flavor. Look for Dutch-processed cocoa if you want a richer and more complex chocolate taste. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder flavor, natural cocoa works well too. The choice of cocoa can subtly alter both the taste and color of your biscotti, giving you room to experiment and personalize your treat.
Almonds add not just crunch but also a delightful nutty flavor that pairs brilliantly with chocolate. To elevate the taste, consider toasting the almonds beforehand. Just a few minutes in a dry skillet until they're golden will bring out their oils and deepen their flavor. If you want to swap out the almonds, hazelnuts or pecans also make excellent alternatives that complement the chocolate beautifully.
Ingredients
Biscotti Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Make sure to gather all the ingredients before you start for a smooth baking experience!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Whisk Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the eggs and vanilla extract until well blended.
Combine and Fold
Gradually add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped almonds and dark chocolate chips.
Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a log about 2 inches wide and 12 inches long.
Bake First Time
Place the log on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes.
Slice and Bake Again
Carefully slice the log into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Lay them cut side down on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cool and Serve
Allow the biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy with your favorite beverage!
These biscotti can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks, making them great for snacking or gifting!
Pro Tips
- For an additional flavor twist, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla. You can also substitute the almonds with pistachios or hazelnuts for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate almond biscotti are perfect for dunking! Pair them with a rich espresso, a robust cup of coffee, or even a glass of dessert wine for a delightful afternoon treat. The texture holds up well, ensuring you get that satisfying crunch in every dip. For variety, try serving them with flavored creams or gelato, adding a delightful contrast to their chocolatey goodness.
Biscotti also make a fantastic homemade gift. Package them in a decorative box or jar, and they are sure to impress friends and family. Consider adding a themed label and a small note on how to enjoy them, especially if you include any personalized flavors or variations you've made.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day. Roll it into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and stash it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, simply take it out, slice, and proceed with the baking steps as usual. This not only saves time but allows for spontaneous baking sessions whenever you crave a sweet treat.
If you have extra biscotti, they store beautifully! Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours, and they’ll be just as delicious as when they were first baked.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use white chocolate chips instead?
Absolutely! White chocolate chips will provide a nice contrast in flavor and sweetness.
→ How do I store biscotti?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for longer shelf life.
→ What can I serve with biscotti?
Biscotti pairs perfectly with espresso or coffee, but they can also be enjoyed with tea or milk.
→ Can I substitute ingredients?
You can experiment with gluten-free flour or replace sugar with a sugar substitute, but the texture may vary.
Chocolate Almond Biscotti
I love making these Chocolate Almond Biscotti because they're the perfect accompaniment to my afternoon coffee. The rich chocolate and crunchy almonds create a delightful texture that I find irresistible. Each bite is a wonderful balance of deep cocoa flavors and nutty goodness, making it a real treat to enjoy. Plus, the best part is how easy they are to whip up; in just a short while, I can create a batch that's perfect for sharing—with friends, family, or simply indulging myself!
Created by: Autumn Pierce
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 biscotti
What You'll Need
Biscotti Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk the eggs and vanilla extract until well blended.
Gradually add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped almonds and dark chocolate chips.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a log about 2 inches wide and 12 inches long.
Place the log on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes.
Carefully slice the log into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Lay them cut side down on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Allow the biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy with your favorite beverage!
Extra Tips
- For an additional flavor twist, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla. You can also substitute the almonds with pistachios or hazelnuts for a different taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g