Almond Biscotti with Dark Chocolate Dip

Almond Biscotti with Dark Chocolate Dip is a classic Italian cookie that’s crisp, slightly sweet, and irresistibly crunchy. These twice-baked cookies are filled with toasted almonds for a rich nutty flavor and finished with a silky dark chocolate dip that makes every bite indulgent.

The word “biscotti” comes from the Latin bis coctus, meaning “twice baked,” which gives these cookies their signature crisp texture. Perfect for dunking into coffee, cappuccino, or even dessert wine, they strike the perfect balance between rustic charm and gourmet delight.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a beautiful blend of simplicity and sophistication. The aroma of toasted almonds fills the kitchen as they bake, and dipping them in dark chocolate takes them to a whole new level of indulgence.

Unlike most cookies, biscotti have a long shelf life — they stay fresh for weeks, making them perfect for gifting or enjoying throughout the week. The crunch, the flavor, and the little touch of chocolate — it’s pure perfection!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This biscotti recipe is a must-try because:

• It’s authentic, elegant, and easy to make.
• The texture is addictive — crunchy but not hard.
• The combination of almonds and dark chocolate is timeless.
• It’s a great make-ahead treat for holidays or coffee breaks.
• You can customize it endlessly — add fruits, nuts, or flavor extracts.

If you love coffee and cookies, this is a match made in heaven.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• First Bake Time: 25 minutes
• Second Bake Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 20 biscotti
• Calories: ~160 kcal per biscotti

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Dessert / Snack / Tea-time Treat

Ingredients

For the Biscotti:

• 1 ¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional but recommended)
• 1 cup (120 g) whole or sliced almonds, toasted
• Zest of 1 orange (optional, for a citrus note)

For the Chocolate Dip:

• 6 oz (170 g) dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), chopped
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil or butter (optional, for smoothness)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Make biscotti dough and shape it into logs.
2. Bake until lightly golden, cool, then slice diagonally.
3. Bake the slices again until crisp.
4. Dip one end in melted dark chocolate, let set, and enjoy.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. In a separate large bowl, beat eggs and sugar together until pale and thick (about 2–3 minutes).
5. Mix in vanilla extract, almond extract, and orange zest if using.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a dough forms.
7. Fold in the toasted almonds.

Step 2: Shape and First Bake

1. Divide the dough into two equal portions.
2. On a lightly floured surface, shape each portion into a log about 10 inches long and 2 inches wide.
3. Place logs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
4. Bake for 25 minutes, or until light golden and firm to touch.
5. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Slice the Biscotti

1. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
2. Using a sharp serrated knife, slice each log diagonally into ½-inch thick slices.
3. Arrange slices cut-side down on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Second Bake

1. Bake for 8 minutes per side, until golden and crisp.
2. Remove and cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 5: Dip in Dark Chocolate

1. Melt dark chocolate with coconut oil in a microwave or double boiler until smooth.
2. Dip one end (or half) of each biscotti into the melted chocolate.
3. Place dipped biscotti on parchment paper until the chocolate hardens completely (you can refrigerate them for faster setting).

How to Serve

• Serve these biscotti with espresso, cappuccino, or tea.
• They’re also delicious dipped in hot chocolate or sweet dessert wine (Vin Santo).
• Arrange them on a platter for holiday parties or wrap in cellophane for edible gifts.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Toast almonds before adding — it enhances their flavor and crunch.
• Use a serrated knife to slice cleanly without crumbling.
• Don’t overbake in the first bake — they’ll bake again later.
• For softer biscotti, reduce the second bake time by a few minutes.
• Let chocolate set completely before storing to prevent smudging.

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Almond Biscotti: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough.
• Cranberry Almond Biscotti: Add ½ cup dried cranberries for a festive touch.
• Hazelnut Biscotti: Replace almonds with hazelnuts and dip in milk chocolate.
• White Chocolate Dip: Use white chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter flavor.
• Espresso Biscotti: Add 1 teaspoon espresso powder to the dough for a coffee aroma.

Freezing and Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing (Undipped): Freeze biscotti (before dipping in chocolate) for up to 3 months. Thaw and dip before serving.
• Freezing Dough: Biscotti dough can be frozen (unbaked) for up to 1 month.
• After Dipping: Store dipped biscotti in a cool, dry place for up to 10 days.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Serrated knife
• Cooling rack
• Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler

FAQ

Q1: Can I make biscotti without nuts?
Yes, simply omit almonds or replace with chocolate chips, cranberries, or seeds.

Q2: My biscotti are too hard — what went wrong?
They may have been overbaked. Reduce the second bake time slightly for a softer texture.

Q3: Can I dip them in milk chocolate instead?
Absolutely — any type of chocolate works! Dark chocolate balances sweetness best.

Q4: How do I make them gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Q5: How long does the chocolate take to set?
At room temperature, about 30–45 minutes; in the refrigerator, about 15 minutes.

Conclusion

Almond Biscotti with Dark Chocolate Dip is a treat that combines tradition and indulgence — a crispy, nutty cookie paired with smooth, rich chocolate. It’s elegant yet simple, perfect for holidays, gifting, or a quiet moment with coffee.

Each bite delivers a delightful crunch, a hint of almond sweetness, and a whisper of chocolate decadence — the kind of treat that makes life’s small moments feel extra special.