Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti

Name: Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 24 biscotti
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; Zest of 1 orange

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti during the holiday season because they are the perfect combination of savory and sweet. The rich chocolate flavor balanced with the tartness of cranberries is irresistible! Each biscotti is perfect for dipping into a warm cup of coffee or tea, making it a delightful treat for friends and family. These biscotti not only look beautiful on any dessert platter but also make for a thoughtful homemade gift. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them time and time again!

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:55:07.018Z

I still remember the first time I made Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti. I was experimenting with the flavors I love, and the combination of dark chocolate and sweet, tart cranberries turned out to be magical. The aroma that filled my home as they baked was simply irresistible!

As I dipped my first biscotti into coffee, I realized the secret lies in the twice-baking method, which gives this treat its signature crunch. The addition of orange zest brings a refreshing twist that perfectly complements the chocolate and cranberries. It’s a recipe I always return to for gatherings and special occasions!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart cranberries
Perfectly crunchy texture ideal for coffee dipping
Quick to make but impressive to serve

      

Mastering the Biscotti Texture

Achieving the perfect crunch in your biscotti is all about the second bake. After slicing the baked logs, you should return them to the oven to dry out. Bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, watching closely until they're golden and crisp around the edges. The longer you bake, the crunchier they will become, but be cautious to avoid burning. For a softer biscotti, reduce the baking time slightly during this step.

Another crucial factor is the shaping of the logs. Aim for uniformity in size; this ensures even baking throughout. If your dough feels too sticky, dust your hands and work surface with a little flour. The logs should be about 12 inches long and 2-3 inches wide, which allows for proper expansion and crisping during baking.

Ingredient Insights

The blend of unsweetened cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips creates a harmonious chocolate experience. The cocoa powder defines the base chocolate flavor, while the chips contribute bursts of richness in every bite. For a different twist, you can substitute the dark chocolate with milk chocolate or even white chocolate chips, which will yield a sweeter biscotti. Just remember to adjust the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet treat.

Don't overlook the role of cranberries in balancing the rich chocolate. Their tartness cuts through the sweetness, providing a refreshing contrast. Dried cherries or blueberries can also be used in place of cranberries for a unique flavor profile, while still retaining that fruity tartness.

Storage and Gifting Tips

These biscotti store beautifully! Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, ensuring they remain crisp. If you plan on making a batch in advance for gifting, consider double-batching to freeze some. Once fully cooled, place slices in a freezer-safe bag and they can last up to three months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for a fresh-tasting treat.

For gifting, consider arranging the biscotti in a decorative box lined with parchment paper. You can even pair them with a small bag of high-quality coffee or tea for a thoughtful homemade gift. Just label the box with the flavor and storage details to inform the lucky recipients about their delicious treat!

Ingredients

For the Biscotti

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Zest of 1 orange

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the vanilla extract. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Fold in the cranberries, chocolate chips, and orange zest.

Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a long log, about 12 inches long. Place them on a lined baking sheet and flatten the tops slightly.

Bake for 25 minutes or until set.

Slice and Second Bake

Remove the biscotti logs from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes. Using a sharp knife, slice each log diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces. Return the slices to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until crisp.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled biscotti before serving.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm undertone. You can also incorporate nuts such as almonds or pecans into the dough for added texture and flavor. Simply chop them coarsely and fold them in along with the cranberries and chocolate.

Another fun variation is to dip the finished biscotti in white chocolate for an elegant twist. Just melt white chocolate chips and dip half of each biscotti for a festive touch that’s perfect for holiday gifting. Sprinkling colorful edible glitter or crushed nuts on the wet chocolate will add visual appeal.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your biscotti don’t hold their shape during the first bake, it could be due to overly wet dough or insufficient flour. Ensure measurements are precise, and if the dough seems too sticky, don’t hesitate to add a bit more flour. Conversely, if they seem too dry or crumbly, a small additional splash of egg or water may help bind the dough more effectively.

Overbaking can lead to overly hard biscotti that are difficult to enjoy. Start with slightly shorter baking times, particularly during the second bake. Check for a crisp exterior and slightly soft centers. Remember, they will continue to harden slightly as they cool. If you mistakenly overbake them, a light drizzle of coffee or tea can help soften them a bit when serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of nuts or fruits?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute cranberries with raisins or add nuts like pistachios or almonds for a different texture.

→ How should I store biscotti?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

→ Can I freeze biscotti?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they are completely cooled and then place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What drinks pair well with these biscotti?

Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti pairs wonderfully with coffee, espresso, or a warm cup of tea.