Chocolate Orange Biscotti

Name: Chocolate Orange Biscotti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 24 biscotti
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Soft Ideas

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Orange Biscotti because they perfectly blend rich chocolate with a bright citrus zing. Every bite is a delightful experience, whether I’m enjoying them with a coffee in the morning or serving them as an elegant treat for guests. The balancing act of zesting fresh oranges while mixing the dough always brings excitement, and I find the whole process to be incredibly rewarding. Plus, they keep well, making them perfect for gifting or indulging whenever the mood strikes!

Created by

Kendra Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:29:34.706Z

When I first created this Chocolate Orange Biscotti recipe, I wanted to incorporate flavors that would truly stand out. The combination of rich dark chocolate and fresh orange zest not only results in a luscious flavor, but the ingredients complement each other marvelously. I experimented with both fresh and dried zest, ultimately finding that fresh adds a vibrancy that dried just can’t replicate.

I also discovered that baking them twice, which is traditional for biscotti, gives them that perfect crunch while keeping the center just a bit chewy. For the best results, let them cool completely before slicing; this makes it easier to achieve those clean, sharp edges that look so inviting!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

The Role of Orange Zest

Orange zest is an essential ingredient in this Chocolate Orange Biscotti, providing a bright, citrusy flavor that cuts through the richness of the cocoa. It's crucial to use fresh oranges, as bottled zests can lack the vibrant taste. When zesting, be sure to only remove the outer, colored skin and avoid the bitter white pith beneath, which can affect the biscotti's overall flavor. This little touch of freshness elevates the treat significantly.

The proper technique for zesting involves using a microplane or zester to achieve fine curls that will distribute evenly throughout the dough. This ensures that each bite bursts with that delightful orange aroma. If you can't find fresh oranges, consider substituting with a tablespoon of high-quality orange extract, but be cautious to avoid overpowering the chocolate flavors.

Baking Tips for Perfect Biscotti

When shaping the dough into logs, make sure they are slightly flattened rather than round. This shape will give you a wider surface area for slicing later, which helps achieve even baking and crisping. It's also a good idea to wet your hands slightly while handling the dough, as this prevents sticking and makes the shaping process easier.

After the first baking, let the logs cool just enough to handle them (about 10 minutes) but not so long that they harden. Slicing while the logs are still warm helps you achieve cleaner cuts and prevents crumbling. A serrated knife works best for this task, allowing for smooth slicing without crushing the biscotti.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Chocolate Orange Biscotti:

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create perfect Chocolate Orange 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, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and orange zest. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Shape and Bake

Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space in between. Bake for 25-30 minutes until firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.

Slice and Second Bake

Using a serrated knife, slice the logs diagonally into 1-inch pieces. Arrange the slices back on the baking sheet, cut side down. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until crisp. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.

Enjoy your biscotti with a hot beverage for the best experience!

Pro Tips

To enhance the orange flavor, try using blood oranges for a unique twist. You can also dip the cooled biscotti in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.

Storage and Shelf Life

These Chocolate Orange Biscotti can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, making them a perfect treat to prepare ahead of time. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to three months. To freeze, arrange the cooled biscotti in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for a couple of hours. Once hardened, transfer them to a freezer bag, ensuring all the air is removed to prevent freezer burn.

If you choose to freeze the biscotti, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a freshly baked feel, you can reheat them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the chocolate to become slightly melty again.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate by substituting dark chocolate chips with white or milk chocolate for a sweeter treat. Additionally, you can add nuts such as candied walnuts or hazelnuts for an added crunch and depth of flavor. If you’re looking for a more decadent version, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled biscotti for an eye-catching presentation.

For a twist on the citrus flavor, try adding a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough, or incorporate dried cranberries or cherries along with the chocolate chips. These variations can add complexity and make each batch uniquely special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor.

→ How long do these biscotti last?

They can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

→ Can I freeze biscotti?

Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer in a zip-top bag, and they’ll be good for up to three months.

→ Is it necessary to add orange zest?

While it's not strictly necessary, the zest complements the chocolate beautifully and enhances the overall flavor.