Save Crunchy, twice-baked biscotti infused with warm spices, citrus zest, and festive marmalade. Perfect for holiday gifting or pairing with coffee.
I first made these biscotti for our Christmas morning coffee, and they quickly became a family favorite. The scent of orange and spices fills the kitchen, making the holiday feel extra special.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 1/4 cups (280 g)
- Baking powder: 1 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp
- Ground ginger: 1/2 tsp
- Ground nutmeg: 1/4 tsp
- Unsalted butter, softened: 1/2 cup (115 g)
- Granulated sugar: 2/3 cup (135 g)
- Large eggs: 2
- Vanilla extract: 2 tsp
- Zest of orange: 1 orange
- Orange marmalade: 1/2 cup (120 g)
- Dried cranberries: 2/3 cup (90 g)
- Chopped pistachios: 1/2 cup (60 g)
- Chopped almonds: 1/2 cup (60 g)
- White chocolate, melted (optional): 4 oz (115 g)
- Extra marmalade or candied orange peel (optional): for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare baking sheet:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
- Cream butter and sugar:
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and orange zest.
- Combine mixture:
- Stir in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Add mix-ins:
- Gently fold in orange marmalade, dried cranberries, pistachios, and almonds until evenly distributed.
- Shape dough:
- Divide dough in half. On the prepared baking sheet, shape each half into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Flatten slightly.
- Bake logs:
- Bake for 25 minutes until golden and firm. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
- Slice logs:
- Using a serrated knife, slice logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices.
- Bake slices:
- Arrange slices cut side down on the baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, flip, then bake another 8 to 10 minutes until crisp and golden.
- Decorate:
- Cool completely. Drizzle with melted white chocolate and decorate with extra marmalade or candied orange peel if desired.
Save My kids love to help drizzle the white chocolate and add little orange pieces to each biscotti, making it a fun pre-holiday activity for everyone.
Required Tools
Electric mixer or mixing bowls and whisk, baking sheet, parchment paper, serrated knife, and cooling rack
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, wheat (gluten), milk (butter), tree nuts (pistachios, almonds). Always check marmalade and chocolate labels for possible additional allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each biscotti has about 120 calories, 5 g total fat, 18 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein.
Save This biscotti makes a delightful addition to any cookie tray and stays perfectly crisp for weeks. Enjoy with your favorite hot drink for a special treat.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → What gives these biscotti their festive flavor?
Warm spices, citrus zest, and orange marmalade infuse the biscotti with seasonal taste and aroma.
- → Can I substitute the nuts?
Yes, pistachios and almonds can be replaced with hazelnuts or pecans based on your preference.
- → Is white chocolate drizzle necessary?
No, it’s optional, but it adds a sweet finishing touch and extra festivity for serving or gifting.
- → How do I store biscotti to keep them fresh?
Place biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature; they will stay crisp for up to two weeks.
- → What’s the secret to getting crunchy biscotti?
Twice baking the slices ensures they become crisp and golden, ideal for dipping in warm drinks.
- → Can I add extra citrus flavor?
Yes, include lemon zest along with orange zest for brighter flavor in each cookie.