Chocolate Almond Biscotti
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love baking, and making Chocolate Almond Biscotti has become one of my favorite traditions. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy almonds creates a delightful treat perfect for dipping into coffee or enjoying on their own. Every time I whip up a batch, I can’t help but get excited about the aroma that fills my kitchen. Not only is this recipe easy to follow, but it also allows me to showcase my skills as I shape the dough into perfect logs, ready for slicing and baking into deliciousness.
As I experimented with different biscotti recipes, I discovered that adding melted chocolate not only enhances the flavor but also gives the biscotti a rich, dark color that is simply irresistible. I found that folding in chopped almonds creates a wonderful crunch that perfectly contrasts the soft interior of each piece. Baking twice is key to achieving that perfect, satisfying crunch we all love in biscotti.
On my last baking adventure, I let the biscotti cool completely before dipping the ends in melted chocolate for an extra touch. The combination of chocolate drizzle with the sliced almonds on top made for an irresistible dessert that I couldn’t wait to share with friends. It’s these little steps that make all the difference in transforming simple ingredients into a lush treat.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy almonds
- Perfect for dipping into coffee or tea
- Great for gifting or serving at gatherings
Understanding the Ingredients
The success of your Chocolate Almond Biscotti hinges largely on the quality of your ingredients. Using high-quality cocoa powder will give your biscotti a rich, deep chocolate flavor that enhances the overall taste. Remember, the unsweetened cocoa powder is what differentiates your biscotti from conventional cookies; it balances the sweetness of the sugar while contributing to the desired texture.
Another important ingredient is the almonds. Opt for raw or lightly roasted almonds to maintain their crunch. If you prefer a different nut or a nut-free version, you can substitute with sunflower seeds or even pumpkin seeds, though the flavor profile will shift slightly. Just be sure to chop them roughly for even distribution throughout the dough.
Mastering the Baking Technique
Biscotti are known for their double-baking technique, which contributes to their signature crunch. After baking your logs for the initial 25 minutes, take care not to skip the cooling time. Allowing the logs to cool for 10 minutes stabilizes the dough, making it easier to slice without crumbling. Cool logs are firmer and slice beautifully into uniform pieces, ensuring each biscotti is consistent in size and baking time during the second bake.
During the second bake, arrange your biscotti cut side down on the baking sheet to achieve even crispness. Keep a close eye during this phase; baking between 18 and 20 minutes is ideal, and you should aim for a golden edge. The aromas at this stage will be irresistible, and the biscotti should feel hard yet not overly brittle, ready for that delectable chocolate dip!
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Chocolate Almond Biscotti:
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped almonds
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, melted (for dipping)
Once you have these ready, you're all set to start baking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delightful biscotti:
Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and vanilla extract, then gradually add to the dry ingredients.
Shape and Bake
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and divide it into two equal parts. Shape each part into a log about 12 inches long on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes until firm. Allow the logs to cool for 10 minutes.
Slice and Second Bake
After cooling, slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Place the slices cut side down on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes on each side until crisp.
Add Chocolate Drizzle
Once the biscotti are completely cool, dip one end in the melted dark chocolate and place them on parchment to set. Enjoy your Chocolate Almond Biscotti with your favorite beverage!
These delicious biscotti are best enjoyed once they have set completely!
Pro Tips
- To enhance the flavor, try toasting the almonds before adding them to the dough.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Once your Chocolate Almond Biscotti is fully cooled and dipped, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. This makes them a fantastic make-ahead treat for parties or holiday gifting. To keep them fresh longer, consider freezing some of your batch. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they will last for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw at room temperature.
For serving, these biscotti perfectly pair with coffee, espresso, or tea—a delightful ritual to enhance your afternoon snack. To elevate the presentation, consider drizzling additional melted dark chocolate over the top or sprinkling a pinch of sea salt before it sets for a contrast in flavor. You might also try serving them alongside a rich dessert sauce for dipping!
Potential Troubleshooting Tips
If you notice your biscotti are too dry or crumble easily, this could be a result of overbaking or too much flour. Ensure to measure your flour accurately, spooning it into your measuring cup rather than scooping directly from the bag, which can pack it down. If you ever find the dough too sticky to handle, a light dusting of flour on your hands can help shape it without adding too much flour to the overall mix.
On the other hand, if your biscotti come out too soft, they may need additional time in the oven during the second bake. Don’t hesitate to add a few more minutes; the goal is to achieve a nice, crisp texture. Similarly, check on them frequently during this final stage to avoid burning. Each oven can vary in heat distribution, so your personal touch is essential here!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute with milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor.
→ How should I store the biscotti?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
→ Can I add other nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with walnuts or pecans.
→ Is there a gluten-free option?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
Chocolate Almond Biscotti
I absolutely love baking, and making Chocolate Almond Biscotti has become one of my favorite traditions. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy almonds creates a delightful treat perfect for dipping into coffee or enjoying on their own. Every time I whip up a batch, I can’t help but get excited about the aroma that fills my kitchen. Not only is this recipe easy to follow, but it also allows me to showcase my skills as I shape the dough into perfect logs, ready for slicing and baking into deliciousness.
Created by: Lydia Barrett
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 pieces
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped almonds
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, melted (for dipping)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and vanilla extract, then gradually add to the dry ingredients. Stir in the chopped almonds until fully mixed.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and divide it into two equal parts. Shape each part into a log about 12 inches long on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes until firm. Allow the logs to cool for 10 minutes.
After cooling, slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Place the slices cut side down on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes on each side until crisp.
Once the biscotti are completely cool, dip one end in the melted dark chocolate and place them on parchment to set. Enjoy your Chocolate Almond Biscotti with your favorite beverage!
Extra Tips
- To enhance the flavor, try toasting the almonds before adding them to the dough.
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