Chocolate Orange Biscotti

Name: Chocolate Orange Biscotti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 biscotti
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup 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 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Oven Planning

I absolutely love making Chocolate Orange Biscotti, especially during the holidays when family and friends gather together. The rich chocolate flavor paired with the refreshing burst of orange zest makes every bite delightful. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for dipping into coffee or tea. Plus, the aroma that fills the kitchen while they bake is utterly irresistible! With just a few ingredients, you can create these beautiful treats that not only taste amazing but also make fantastic gifts for loved ones.

Created by

Violet Kingsley

Last updated on 2026-01-11T17:59:34.599Z

When I first tried creating Chocolate Orange Biscotti, I was amazed at how simple and rewarding it was. The balance of dark chocolate and citrus zest elevates this traditional Italian treat to something truly special. I experimented with different chocolate types, and found that using bittersweet chocolate really enhances the orange flavor.

One tip I picked up is to let the biscotti rest after the first bake before slicing. This ensures cleaner cuts and a crunchier texture. Trust me, it’s worth the wait when you bite into that perfect combination of chocolate and orange!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Crispy outside with a tender center
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Magic of Flavor Balance

One of the highlights of this Chocolate Orange Biscotti is the balance between the rich chocolate and the bright orange zest. The cocoa powder adds depth, while the orange zest brings a vibrant freshness that enlivens each bite. When adding the zest, make sure to only use the outer peel of the orange, as the white pith can impart bitterness. Use a microplane for a fine zest that integrates beautifully into the dough, ensuring a hint of orange in every piece.

The addition of semi-sweet chocolate chips not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also introduces a delightful texture contrast with their melty goodness. If you prefer a darker chocolate flavor, consider substituting bitter-sweet chocolate chips instead. Just be cautious with the sweetness of the dough—adjust the sugar slightly if you opt for a less sweet chocolate to maintain the overall balance.

Baking Technique Tips

When shaping the dough into a log, evenness is key. Aim for a log thickness of about 1.5 inches to ensure an even bake. If the log is too thick, the center may remain doughy after the first bake. For those who like a more uniform shape, you can use a bench scraper to level the sides and ends of the log, creating a polished look that will be visually appealing once sliced.

During the initial bake, keep an eye on the log—it should be firm to the touch and may crack slightly on the surface. This cracking is normal and will enhance the biscotti's texture. After removing the log from the oven, allow it to cool just enough to handle, about 10 minutes. This cooling period helps the biscotti firm up, making slicing easier and preventing crumbles.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious Chocolate Orange Biscotti:

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup 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 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Make sure to have everything ready before starting!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious Chocolate Orange Biscotti:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 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, mix the eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Shape the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a log about 12 inches long.

First Bake

Place the log on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes. Remove and let cool for 10 minutes.

Slice and Second Bake

Slice the log into pieces diagonally and arrange them cut-side down. Bake for an additional 10 minutes.

Cool and Serve

Allow the biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Chocolate Orange Biscotti!

Pro Tips

For an added citrus flavor, you can drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled biscotti.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Orange Biscotti can be made ahead and stored for several weeks, making them perfect for holiday gifting or your own snacking needs. Once completely cooled, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. To maintain their crispness, avoid stacking them if possible, or separate layers with parchment paper to prevent moisture buildup.

If you're looking to freeze the biscotti, slice them after the second bake, allowing them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for an hour or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5–7 minutes to rejuvenate their crispiness.

Variations and Personal Touches

While this recipe is a fantastic base, feel free to get creative with additional mix-ins. Chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts pair wonderfully with the chocolate and orange. Just keep in mind to adjust the total chocolate chip quantity slightly to accommodate the extra texture. Alternatively, you can experiment with flavored extracts—almond or peppermint can provide an unexpected twist that complements the chocolate nicely.

For a glaze, consider drizzling some melted white chocolate over the cooled biscotti. This not only adds a beautiful finish but also a complementary sweetness that pairs well with the bitterness of the cocoa. Just allow the white chocolate to set before packaging them as gifts or serving at your next gathering.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can substitute with milk chocolate, but keep in mind it will be sweeter.

→ 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?

Absolutely! Wrap them well in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to three months.

→ Is it necessary to use orange zest?

The orange zest really enhances the flavor, but if you prefer, you can substitute it with lemon zest.