If you have a soft spot for crisp, flavorful treats that brighten up your snack time or holiday gatherings, this Cranberry Orange Biscotti Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with the vibrant zing of orange zest and the sweet-tart pop of dried cranberries, these biscotti combine a perfect crunch with a rich, buttery undertone. They’re irresistibly fragrant, beautifully textured, and delightfully simple to bake, making them a treasured addition to any cookie lineup or a charming gift that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cranberry Orange Biscotti Recipe relies on straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable bite. Each component plays a vital role, from the flour’s foundation to the bright burst of citrus and the chewy tartness of dried cranberries.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy base that gives biscotti their signature firm texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Adds just enough lift for a tender crumb without sacrificing crunch.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and aids in creating a crisp crust.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Introduces richness and buttery flavor for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and contribute moisture and structure.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: Injects bright, citrusy aroma and flavor that makes these biscotti stand out.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complements the orange zest beautifully.
- ¾ cup dried cranberries: Provides chewy tart bursts that contrast the biscuit’s crunch.
- ½ cup chopped almonds (optional): Adds nutty crunch and a lovely texture variation.
- 1 tablespoon orange juice: Enhances citrus flavor and keeps the dough moist.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Biscotti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of your rising agent and seasoning, which is key for consistent texture.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this step incorporates air which will help give the biscotti a tender crumb while still helping them stay crisp after baking.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully mixed before adding the next. Then, stir in the fresh orange zest, vanilla extract, and orange juice. These wet ingredients build layers of flavor and moisture, enhancing the citrusy leap your taste buds will adore.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mixing slowly prevents overworking the dough, which keeps the biscotti from becoming tough. Once combined, stir in the dried cranberries and chopped almonds, if using, evenly distributing these bursts of tartness and crunch throughout the dough.
Step 5: Shape and Bake the Dough Logs
Divide the dough in half, forming each into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Place the logs on your prepared baking sheet and gently press them flat to about ¾ inch thickness for even baking. Slide them into the oven and bake for 25 to 28 minutes, until the tops are lightly golden and the logs feel firm to the touch.
Step 6: Slice and Bake Again
After removing the logs from the oven, let them cool about 10 minutes so slicing will be neater and safer. Using a serrated knife, cut diagonally into ¾-inch thick slices to maximize surface area for crispiness. Arrange these cut slices cut-side down back on the baking sheet. Return them to the oven to bake 10 minutes, then flip and continue baking for an additional 8 to 10 minutes until beautifully crisp and golden.
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Biscotti Recipe
Garnishes
Drizzle your cooled biscotti with melted white chocolate or sprinkle powdered sugar over the top for a festive, elegant look. A light dusting of cinnamon sugar also pairs beautifully with the orange and cranberry flavors, adding a warm touch without overwhelming the delicate balance.
Side Dishes
These biscotti shine best beside a warm cup of coffee, fresh brewed tea, or even a glass of dessert wine. Their crunchy texture and zesty flavor are perfect companions to sipping and nibbling in equal measure, elevating your afternoon break or post-dinner treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Try bundling a few biscotti together with rustic twine for charming gifts or party favors. Arrange them in a festive jar with layers of dried cranberries and cinnamon sticks for a beautiful display. You can also use them as edible stirrers for hot beverages, enhancing flavor as they gently soften.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature. They maintain their crunch and flavor beautifully for up to one week, making them a sweet treat to enjoy throughout the week or to share with friends.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Cranberry Orange Biscotti Recipe later, they freeze wonderfully. Place the fully cooled biscotti in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to three months, and thaw at room temperature when ready to indulge.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven crunch, pop the biscotti in a 300°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This gentle reheating will crisp them up and refresh the citrus aroma, making them taste like you just baked them moments ago.
FAQs
Can I substitute the almonds for another nut?
Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans are excellent alternatives that complement the orange and cranberry flavors well. Just be sure to chop them finely to match the texture of almonds.
Is it necessary to bake the biscotti twice?
Yes, the two-step baking process is what gives biscotti their signature crunchy texture. The first bake cooks the dough through, while the second bake dries them out to achieve that satisfyingly crisp bite.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. The texture will be slightly different but still deliciously satisfying.
How long do biscotti stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, biscotti stay fresh and crunchy for about one week. Beyond that, they may start to lose their crispness but remain safe to eat.
Can I add other dried fruits instead of cranberries?
Definitely! Chopped dried cherries, apricots, or even chopped dried figs make wonderful substitutions, each bringing a unique twist to this Cranberry Orange Biscotti Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about baking your own Cranberry Orange Biscotti Recipe—it’s like capturing the spirit of cozy afternoons and holiday warmth in every crunchy bite. Once you try this recipe, I promise it will become a staple in your baking rotation, cherished by friends and family alike. So go ahead, preheat that oven, and fill your kitchen with the heartfelt, zesty aroma of homemade biscotti goodness!
Print
Cranberry Orange Biscotti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 20 biscotti
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cranberry Orange Biscotti is a delightful twice-baked Italian-American cookie perfect for holidays and festive occasions. These crunchy, lightly sweetened cookies are infused with bright orange zest and studded with dried cranberries and optional almonds, making them a perfect companion to coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
Add-ins
- ¾ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped almonds (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, ensuring they are evenly combined.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps incorporate air for a tender texture.
- Add eggs and flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the fresh orange zest, vanilla extract, and orange juice to infuse citrus flavor throughout the dough.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Stir in the dried cranberries and optional chopped almonds to distribute evenly.
- Shape the logs: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a log approximately 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet and gently flatten them to about ¾ inch thickness for even baking.
- First bake: Bake the logs for 25 to 28 minutes or until the tops turn lightly golden and feel firm to the touch. This initial baking sets the shape and cooks the dough through.
- Cool and slice: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the logs cool for 10 minutes to firm slightly. Using a serrated knife, slice the logs diagonally into ¾-inch thick pieces for the classic biscotti shape.
- Second bake: Arrange the sliced biscotti cut-side down on the baking sheet. Return to the oven and bake for 10 minutes. Flip the pieces over and bake for another 8 to 10 minutes until crisp and lightly golden on both sides.
- Cool and serve: Let the biscotti cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.
Notes
- Drizzle with melted white chocolate for an elegant festive touch.
- Store biscotti in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to one week.
- These biscotti make thoughtful handmade holiday gifts.
