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; 3/4 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti as a delightful treat to enjoy with my coffee. These biscotti are the perfect combination of rich chocolate and tart cranberries, creating a unique flavor profile that elevates my snack time. The crunchy texture satisfying my craving for something sweet, yet not overwhelmingly rich. Make sure to dip them in your favorite drink for an even more enjoyable experience. They also make great gifts when packaged nicely, so I always keep a batch on hand!

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:37:13.400Z

Creating Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. One evening, while experimenting with different flavors, I stumbled upon the perfect combination of dark chocolate and zesty cranberries. The result was astonishing, as they pair beautifully together, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.

I learned that twice-baking the biscotti is key to achieving that satisfying crunch. By slicing the logs when they are still warm, I ensure that each piece maintains a crisp texture without crumbling. It’s a small tip that truly makes a difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate contrasts with the tartness of cranberries
Perfectly crunchy texture that pairs well with coffee or tea
Easily customizable with nuts or different dried fruits

      

Understanding Your Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture. For example, the cocoa powder not only provides a deep chocolate flavor but also contributes to the biscotti's rich color. It's essential to use high-quality cocoa to ensure a solid chocolate taste; look for Dutch-process varieties for a smoother finish. Meanwhile, the dried cranberries not only add a tart note but also provide moisture, balancing the dryness typical of biscotti. Choosing cranberries with no added sugar can keep your sweet balance in check.

Eggs serve as a binder in this recipe, helping to hold the structure of the biscotti while adding richness. If you need to substitute eggs, consider using flax seeds or applesauce as a vegan alternative. The binding might result in a slightly different texture but will still yield satisfying results.

Baking Tips for Success

When forming the logs of dough on the baking sheet, make sure to keep them evenly shaped and approximately 12 inches long. Uneven logs may bake differently, leading to inconsistent crunchiness. Use a spatula to smooth out the tops for an aesthetically pleasing finish. After the first bake, let the logs cool slightly before slicing to avoid crumbling, which can happen if the biscotti are too hot.

During the second bake, keep an eye on the biscotti as they can go from nicely crisped to overly hard in a matter of minutes. A good cue is to watch for a slight golden edge, indicating that they are reaching that perfect biscuity crunch. When they're done, let them cool completely on a wire rack to maintain their crispness.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once completely cooled, store your Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti in an airtight container to maintain their crunchy texture. They can stay fresh at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing them. You can stack them in a zip-top bag, ensuring to layer parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. Just let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours and they’ll regain their deliciousness.

These biscotti make an excellent treat for coffee breaks or afternoon tea, but they shine when paired with a fresh, hot beverage. I love to dip them in a rich espresso or a creamy hot chocolate. Additionally, they can serve as a thoughtful gift; wrapping them in decorative packaging can elevate their appeal, making them a delightful present for friends and family.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Biscotti Ingredients

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

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the biscotti:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt together until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms. Fold in the cranberries and chocolate chips.

Shape and Bake

Divide the dough in half and form two logs about 12 inches long on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes until firm.

Slice and Second Bake

Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Slice the logs into 1/2-inch pieces and return them to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes to crisp up.

Cool and Serve

Let the biscotti cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough or dipping the finished biscotti in melted chocolate.

Customization Options

The base recipe for Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti is incredibly versatile. Feel free to incorporate nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch, or swap out the cranberries for other dried fruits like apricots or cherries depending on your preference. When altering the recipe, just be sure to keep the ratio of wet to dry ingredients balanced to maintain the integrity of the dough.

You can also experiment with different types of chocolate. Using milk chocolate chips instead of dark will yield a sweeter biscotti, while adding some orange or mint extract can give a refreshing twist. Remember to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your additions.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your biscotti comes out too dry, try adding an additional egg or a tablespoon of milk during the mixing stage to enhance moisture without compromising the texture. Alternatively, if they are too soft and crumble when slicing, they may not have been baked long enough on the first bake. Ensuring a firm log is key to achieving the perfect slice later on.

Should you find your biscotti losing their crunch too quickly after storage, consider reheating them in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This method rejuvenates their texture and brings back that delightful crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ How long do these biscotti stay fresh?

These biscotti can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

→ Can I freeze biscotti?

Yes, you can freeze biscotti for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well.

→ What other add-ins can I use?

Feel free to experiment with nuts like almonds or walnuts, or try using different dried fruits such as cherries or apricots.

→ Can I replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour?

Yes, a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend should work fine in this recipe.