Name: Homemade Chocolate Dipped Orange Biscotti Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 45 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 ¾ cup all purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 8 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 2 Tablespoons orange flavored liqueur; 2 Tablespoons dark spiced rum; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 large whole eggs; 1 teaspoon orange zest (approximately 1 large orange); 1 cup whole almonds; 1 pound bittersweet chocolate (chopped finely)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 86 reviews

If you are looking for a delightful treat that combines the zesty brightness of orange, the satisfying crunch of almond biscotti, and the indulgence of rich bittersweet chocolate, you have to try this Homemade Chocolate Dipped Orange Biscotti Recipe. This recipe brings together simple, classic ingredients with a flavorful twist, resulting in a crunchy, aromatic cookie that’s perfect for dipping into your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The luscious chocolate coating makes each bite even more irresistible, turning biscotti into a chic and festive snack that everyone will adore!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Four images show the process of making biscotti arranged in a 2x2 grid on a white marbled surface with a white cloth. The top-left image shows a glass mixing bowl with thick yellowish dough mixed with visible small darker bits and a wooden spoon stirring it. The top-right image has an uncooked dough shaped as an oval, flattened on a white parchment paper-lined black baking tray. The bottom-left image shows the dough baked into a golden-brown oval loaf on the same tray with a serrated knife placed diagonally beside it. The bottom-right image has biscuit slices arranged on a wooden board and a black tray, showing their golden top layer and a light interior with speckles. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a crucial role. The nuts add texture and a natural nutty flavor, the citrus zest and liqueurs infuse vibrant aroma and depth, while the flour and eggs create the perfect crisp yet tender biscotti base.

1 cup whole almonds: Toasted to bring out a warm, nutty crunch that is essential for biscotti.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough while helping it brown beautifully in the oven.
8 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and moisture to the dough for that tender bite inside the crisp exterior.
2 Tablespoons orange flavored liqueur: Imparts subtle citrus notes that enhance the orange zest wonderfully.
2 Tablespoons dark spiced rum: Offers a lovely depth and complexity with its warm spice flavors.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out all the flavors with a gentle, sweet aroma.
1 teaspoon orange zest (from one large orange): Brings fresh, bright bursts of citrus flavor that make these biscotti special.
3 large whole eggs: Bind the dough together while contributing to its structure and tenderness.
2 ¾ cups all purpose flour: The foundation of the biscotti, providing bulk and texture.
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Helps the biscotti rise slightly so they remain light yet crunchy.
¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
1 pound bittersweet chocolate (chopped finely): For dipping, lending a luscious, slightly bitter counterpoint to the sweet orange flavors.

How to Make Homemade Chocolate Dipped Orange Biscotti Recipe

Step 1: Toast the Almonds

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and spreading the almonds evenly on a baking sheet. Toast the almonds for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking or stirring halfway through. This toasting step unlocks the almond’s natural oils and intensifies their flavor, giving your biscotti a crunchy, aromatic punch that no raw nut can match.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

While the almonds cool, combine the sugar, melted butter, orange liqueur, spiced rum, vanilla extract, and orange zest in a spacious mixing bowl. This combination of wet ingredients binds the dough and layers in depth—those citrus and rum notes will shine through beautifully in the finished biscotti.

Step 3: Incorporate the Almonds and Eggs

Finely chop your toasted almonds; this texture contrast is crucial for that classic biscotti bite. Stir these into your wet ingredients along with the eggs. The eggs add richness and help hold everything together once baked.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting out any lumps creates a smooth, even texture for your dough.

Step 5: Form the Dough

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a thick, sticky dough comes together. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. The chilling helps the dough firm up so shaping becomes easier.

Step 6: Shape and Bake the Biscotti Loaf

With wet hands to prevent sticking, shape the dough into a loaf about 8 by 13 inches on a lined baking sheet. Bake it for 20 to 25 minutes until the surface turns a warm golden brown. This step creates the foundation for your biscotti’s perfect crunch.

Step 7: Slice and Toast the Biscotti

Allow the loaf to cool briefly, then carefully slice it with a serrated knife into 12 pieces. Cut each slice in half lengthwise to yield 24 crisp, even biscotti. Arrange them cut side down on an unlined baking sheet and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until golden and crisp. This toasting technique is what gives biscotti their signature dry, crunchy texture.

Step 8: Dip in Chocolate

Once the biscotti are completely cooled, melt the chopped bittersweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Use 30-second bursts at 50% power, stirring frequently until smooth and fully melted. Dip the ends of each biscotti into the luscious chocolate and set them on parchment paper to cool until the chocolate hardens. This final step elevates your Homemade Chocolate Dipped Orange Biscotti Recipe into a truly decadent delight.

How to Serve Homemade Chocolate Dipped Orange Biscotti Recipe

A basket lined with light brown parchment paper holds a pile of long, narrow biscotti, each partially dipped in dark chocolate on one end. The biscotti are golden brown with a crunchy texture, speckled with seeds or nuts. Around and inside the basket, there are thin, round slices of dried orange, bright and slightly translucent with a rich orange color. On a small white plate nearby, one biscotti with chocolate dipped end sits next to two dried orange slices. The scene is set on a dark textured surface with a white marbled background partly visible. A cup filled with dark coffee and a metallic coffee pot are also part of the setting, while a woman's hand is just out of frame, suggesting an inviting snack moment. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a little extra flare, you might sprinkle some finely grated orange zest or chopped toasted almonds on the chocolate before it sets. This adds a gorgeous, professional touch as well as a bit of extra citrus zing or crunch with every bite.

Side Dishes

This biscotti pairs beautifully with a small cup of rich espresso or a freshly brewed cup of tea. Also, a glass of sweet dessert wine enhances the orange and spiced rum notes, turning a simple snack into a refined treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these chocolate dipped biscotti in a decorative jar with parchment paper or tie them in little bundles with colorful twine to give as thoughtful homemade gifts. They are perfect for holiday celebrations, brunches, or as a charming accompaniment to your coffee bar.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep your biscotti fresh for up to two weeks if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid humidity or heat, which can soften the biscotti and cause the chocolate to bloom.

Freezing

Biscotti freeze wonderfully if you want to keep them longer. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for best texture.

Reheating

If the biscotti lose their crispness, pop them under the broiler or in a toaster oven for a few minutes to restore their crunch. Be careful not to burn the chocolate dipping, though. This reheating will refresh their delightful texture.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts besides almonds?

Absolutely! While almonds provide a classic flavor and crunch, you can substitute with hazelnuts, walnuts, or pecans for a delicious twist. Just be sure to toast them well to maximize their flavor.

What if I don’t have orange liqueur or spiced rum?

You can replace these with additional orange zest and a teaspoon of orange juice or extract. The liqueurs add complexity, but the bright citrus flavor is the star, so the zest is essential.

How long do biscotti need to be baked the second time?

The second bake, which dries out the slices into crunchy biscotti, usually takes 15 to 20 minutes at 350°F. Keep a close eye after 15 minutes to ensure they don’t burn.

Is it okay to dip only one end of the biscotti in chocolate?

Yes, dipping one or both ends is a matter of preference. One end dipped still provides plenty of chocolate indulgence without overpowering the crisp, citrusy biscotti.

Can I make these biscotti gluten-free?

You can substitute a gluten-free flour blend for all-purpose flour. Just be sure to check how your blend behaves for baking, as some may affect the texture slightly. You may need to adjust baking time accordingly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making this Homemade Chocolate Dipped Orange Biscotti Recipe from scratch. The intoxicating aroma of toasted almonds and fresh orange zest filling your kitchen, paired with the satisfying crunch and that heavenly chocolate finish, makes every step worth it. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these biscotti are bound to become a beloved classic. So gather your ingredients, have fun with the process, and savor every delicious bite!