Gourmet Chocolate Almond Biscotti

Name: Gourmet Chocolate Almond Biscotti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 20 biscottis
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped almonds; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Sweet Dessert Recipes

I absolutely adore baking biscottis, and this Gourmet Chocolate Almond Biscotti recipe has become one of my all-time favorites. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy almonds makes for a perfect indulgent treat. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures—crisp on the outside, with a moist and flavorful interior. Perfect for a coffee break or as a gift, these biscottis are a splendid way to impress friends and family. I love how simple yet elegant they are, making them a fantastic addition to any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T15:38:28.435Z

When I first experimented with making biscotti, I wanted to add a twist to the traditional recipe. Incorporating chocolate nibs and crunchy almonds not only elevated the flavor but also transformed the texture, making them equally delightful for both dunking and enjoying alone. I recall the first batch that emerged from the oven—the aroma was simply irresistible!

Throughout my baking journey, I learned that letting the biscotti cool completely before slicing allows for cleaner edges. This small tip made a noticeable difference, and the resulting shape not only looks beautiful but also enhances the eating experience. Trust me, these gourmet biscottis are well worth the effort!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy almond bits
Perfectly crisp and airy texture that holds up beautifully with coffee
Versatile enough to serve as a gift or a sweet treat for gatherings

      

The Role of Almonds and Chocolate

Almonds not only add a delightful crunch to your Gourmet Chocolate Almond Biscotti, but they also introduce a subtle nuttiness that complements the rich chocolate flavor. Make sure to chop the almonds finely but not so small that they become powdery; you want them to maintain their texture within the biscotti. If you're looking for a twist, feel free to swap out almonds for other nuts like pecans or walnuts for a different flavor profile.

The chocolate chips contribute bursts of melted chocolate throughout the biscotti, enhancing the overall indulgence. Using high-quality chocolate makes a noticeable difference; I recommend semi-sweet chocolate for the balance it offers. If you prefer a less sweet option, dark chocolate can provide a rich, slightly bitter contrast that pairs well with the cookies’ crunchiness.

Baking Tips for Perfect Biscotti

To ensure your biscotti achieve the perfect crispiness, consider adjusting the second baking duration based on your preference. If you enjoy an extra-crispy texture, extend the baking time by a couple of minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent over-browning. Baking them cut-side down is crucial; it allows steam to escape, which prevents sogginess and aids in achieving that delightful crunch that is the hallmark of traditional biscotti.

Be mindful while shaping your biscotti logs. If the dough feels too sticky, dust your hands and the work surface lightly with flour to help you shape it without losing its integrity. When baked, the logs should have a uniform thickness; this ensures even baking and helps achieve a consistent texture throughout.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once baked and cooled, these biscotti should be stored in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can typically last for up to two weeks, making them a great make-ahead option for gatherings. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Place the biscotti in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer; just re-bake them briefly to restore their crispness before serving.

These biscotti are delicious on their own but also pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Serving them alongside espresso is a classic choice, but they also complement teas and desserts like gelato or sorbet. For an elegant presentation, arrange them in a decorative box or jar for gifting, perhaps with a few additional treats.

Ingredients

For the Biscotti

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped almonds
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Equipment Needed

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Sharp knife for slicing

Preparation Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well, and then stir in the vanilla.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped almonds and chocolate chips.

Shape the Dough

On a floured surface, divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a log about 12 inches long. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Logs

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until firm to the touch. Allow the logs to cool for 10 minutes.

Slice and Bake Again

Using a sharp knife, 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 10-15 minutes until crisp.

Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven, cool completely on a wire rack, and enjoy with your favorite coffee!

Tips for Perfect Biscotti

Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Try adding orange zest or other nuts for different flavors.
Adjust baking time based on desired crunchiness.

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, consider dipping the cooled biscottis in melted chocolate before serving.

Ingredient Modifications

For a gluten-free version of these biscotti, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that contains a binding agent like xanthan gum, which is essential for mimicking the elasticity of gluten in baked goods. This will help retain the biscotti's structure while achieving a similarly satisfying crunch.

If you're aiming to cut down on sugar, you can replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like erythritol, although this may slightly alter the flavor and texture. Keep in mind that sugar contributes not only to sweetness but also to moisture and browning, so experiment cautiously.

Common Biscotti Mistakes

One common mistake when making biscotti is underbaking the logs during the initial bake. They should be just firm to the touch when removed from the oven, as they will continue to cook when sliced and return to the oven. Overly soft logs can lead to crumbly biscotti, so ensure they are firm yet slightly springy before slicing.

Also, ensure your oven temperature is accurate, as the right heat is crucial for getting that perfect bake. An oven thermometer can help verify your temperature; if the oven runs hot, it can lead to biscotti that bake too quickly on the outside while remaining soft inside.

Creative Variations

Feel free to experiment by adding different flavors or spices to your biscotti batter. A splash of almond extract can deepen the almond flavor, while a sprinkle of cinnamon can introduce warmth and depth. You can also incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a sweet-tart flavor twist that brightens up each bite.

For a festive touch, consider dipping one end of the biscotti in melted chocolate and sprinkling with crushed nuts or colorful sprinkles. This not only looks appealing but also adds an additional layer of flavor that makes these treats even more special for the holidays or celebratory occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these biscotti gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How long can I store biscotti?

Stored in an airtight container, biscotti can last for up to 2 weeks.

→ Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?

Absolutely! Walnuts or hazelnuts would work beautifully as well.

→ What can I pair these biscotti with?

They are perfect with coffee, tea, or even a dessert wine.