Chocolate Almond Biscotti

Name: Chocolate Almond Biscotti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 24 biscotti
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup sliced almonds

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making Chocolate Almond Biscotti! The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy almonds creates a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with my afternoon coffee. Baking these twice gives them their signature crispiness, and the chocolate adds a luxurious touch. I love that they make for a perfect gift or a sweet indulgence during the holiday season. Each bite is a perfect harmony of flavors, and I look forward to sharing them with friends and family.

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:33:57.715Z

When I first attempted to make Chocolate Almond Biscotti, I was amazed at how simple yet rewarding it was. The process involves mixing a few key ingredients—flour, sugar, cocoa, and almonds—into a dough and shaping it into logs. I enjoyed watching the transformation as they baked, and the aroma of chocolate filled my kitchen.

One tip I discovered was to allow the biscotti to cool completely before slicing. This ensures they slice cleanly and maintain their crunchy texture. My family can never get enough, and it's always a delight to serve them alongside a warm cup of coffee!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy almonds
Perfectly crispy texture that holds up well in coffee or tea
Great for gifting or enjoying during special occasions

      

The Magic of Double Baking

The double baking process of biscotti transforms them from dough to delightful, crunchy treats. The first bake firms up the dough, while the second bake dries them out and enhances the texture. Keep an eye on the logs during the first bake, as the ideal time is around 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). They should be firm to the touch and slightly puffed. Allowing them to cool before slicing ensures that they hold their shape and doesn’t crumble under your knife.

When slicing, aim for 1-inch thick pieces to balance between crunch and chewiness. Using a serrated knife can make this task easier, as it glides through the biscotti without crushing them. After the second bake, they should be crisp with lightly golden edges. This ensures that when dunked in your coffee or tea, they won’t disintegrate but will absorb just enough liquid to complement their chocolate-rich flavors.

Ingredients That Make a Difference

Each ingredient in the Chocolate Almond Biscotti plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. For instance, unsweetened cocoa powder lends a deep chocolate flavor without adding sweetness, allowing the rich taste of almonds to shine through. The balance of sugar enhances the sweetness while keeping the final product perfectly crispy. If you're looking for a healthier twist, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, although this may affect the color and density a bit.

Using fresh eggs is essential, as they contribute to the biscotti's structure and richness. If you want to elevate the almond flavor, consider toasting the sliced almonds for a few minutes in the oven before incorporating them into the dough. This step enhances their nuttiness and adds extra depth to the overall flavor of the biscotti. Just remember to let them cool before mixing, so you don’t inadvertently cook the eggs.

Ingredients

For the Biscotti

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup sliced almonds

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and vanilla.

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Fold in the sliced almonds.

Shape and Bake the Logs

Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long. Place the logs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes.

Slice and Second Bake

Using a sharp knife, slice the logs diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces. Place the biscotti back on the baking sheet, cut sides up, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until crisp. Let them cool completely before serving.

Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, dip the cooled biscotti in melted chocolate and let them set on parchment paper.

Storage Tips

To keep your Chocolate Almond Biscotti fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. This keeps them crunchy, allowing you to enjoy their delightful texture over time. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months; simply thaw at room temperature when you're ready to indulge.

I find that if you separate layers with parchment paper in the container, it helps maintain their crispiness and prevents them from sticking together. For a quick re-crisping before serving, pop them back in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5–7 minutes. This trick restores their delightful crunch with minimal effort!

Serving Suggestions

Chocolate Almond Biscotti pairs beautifully with a cup of rich espresso or steaming tea. To elevate your serving experience, consider drizzling some melted chocolate over the cooled biscotti, or dipping one end in chocolate for a luxurious touch. A sprinkle of sea salt on top can enhance the flavor even further, creating a delightful sweet and salty combination.

For a festive presentation, arrange the biscotti in a decorative box and gift them to friends and family during the holidays. They also make a lovely addition to a dessert platter alongside cookies or fruit. You can even serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing guests to enjoy the contrast between the warm, melting ice cream and the crunchy biscotti.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the almonds with other nuts?

Yes, you can use walnuts or hazelnuts if you prefer, but adjust the baking time slightly as different nuts may affect texture.

→ How do I store leftover biscotti?

Keep the biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks for optimal freshness.

→ Can I freeze biscotti?

Absolutely! Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months.

→ What can I serve with Chocolate Almond Biscotti?

These biscotti pair wonderfully with coffee, espresso, or dessert wines like Vin Santo.