Chocolate Orange Biscotti

Name: Chocolate Orange Biscotti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 biscotti
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Oven Treats

I absolutely love making Chocolate Orange Biscotti because it perfectly balances rich chocolate flavors with fresh citrus notes. The zesty orange gives the biscotti a delightful wake-up call, while the chocolate provides that luscious indulgence we all crave. Each bite is a delightful mix of crispness and chewiness that’s ideal for dipping in coffee or tea. Plus, making them is quite simple, allowing me to whip up a batch any time a sweet craving hits or when I want to impress guests with an elegant treat.

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:58:13.674Z

I still remember the first time I paired chocolate with orange in a biscotti. It was a risk, but the blend was out of this world! The key is to use high-quality chocolate and fresh orange zest; this combination really elevates the flavor profile. I also discovered that letting the biscotti cool completely before slicing makes them easier to cut and helps retain their shape.

These biscotti have become a favorite in my home, especially during holidays or cozy coffee mornings. I like to package them beautifully for gifts, and they always receive rave reviews. Adding nuts or spices is a fun way to customize them, but honestly, the chocolate-orange duo shines on its own!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Crisp texture that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea
Simple to prepare and perfect for gifting

Mastering the Biscotti Texture

Achieving the perfect biscotti texture is all about the drying process. The first bake gives these cookies their initial shape and firmness, while the second bake is crucial for developing that signature crispness. When you slice the log, ensure the pieces are about 1-inch thick; too thick and they might remain chewy in the center, too thin, and they may burn or become overly hard. Bake the sliced biscotti until they are lightly golden and dry to the touch for an ideal crunch.

Another key factor is the folding in of chocolate chips. Make sure to fold them gently into the dough after it has come together. Overmixing can break the chips and affect the visual appeal of the biscotti. If you prefer a stronger orange presence, consider adding a bit more zest, but do so sparingly to avoid overpowering the chocolate flavor.

Ingredient Insights

The depth of flavor in these Chocolate Orange Biscotti comes from the balance of cocoa powder and orange zest. Cocoa provides richness, while the orange zest delivers bright acidity, and together they create a complex flavor profile. Use a microplane to zest the orange – it ensures no bitter pith is included, and you get the most intense citrus flavor.

Regarding sugar, feel free to substitute part of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for added moisture and a slight caramel note. This is particularly useful if you prefer a softer biscotti that still retains some crispness. Additionally, you can swap half of the semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate for a richer taste.

Ingredients

For the Biscotti

2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Optional: Chopped nuts for added crunch

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, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk the eggs, vanilla, and orange zest until well combined.

Combine and Fold

Pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Shape the Dough

Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a log, about 12 inches long.

Bake First Round

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until firm to the touch. Allow to cool for 10 minutes.

Slice and Bake Again

Slice the log diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces and return them to the baking sheet cut side up. Bake for an additional 15 minutes.

Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoy your Chocolate Orange Biscotti with a warm beverage!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or some finely chopped nuts to the dough.

Serving Suggestions

These biscotti are wonderfully versatile for serving. Pair them with your favorite coffee or tea, and consider sprinkling a little sea salt on top after the second bake for an added dimension of flavor. They can also be served as a sophisticated dessert alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, where the cool creaminess complements the biscotti's crunch.

For a festive touch, you might dip one end of each biscotti in white chocolate and sprinkle with toasted chopped nuts or orange zest before allowing them to set. This will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also introduce an extra layer of flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of biscotti is their long shelf life. Once completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can last for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Just wrap each biscotti tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored this way for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy frozen biscotti, simply remove them from the freezer and allow them to come to room temperature. They will retain their crunchy texture, and there’s no need for reheating. This makes them an excellent make-ahead option for special occasions or last-minute guest arrivals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give the biscotti a richer flavor.

→ How should I store the biscotti?

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

→ Can I freeze the biscotti?

Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

→ What drinks pair well with these biscotti?

They are delicious with coffee, tea, or even hot chocolate!