These Double Chocolate Biscotti with Cherries offer a perfect balance of rich chocolate and chewy dried cherries, giving each bite an irresistible depth of flavor. The biscotti’s slightly crunchy texture makes it ideal for dunking in your favorite beverage, whether it’s a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk.
The inclusion of dark chocolate adds an indulgent element, while the dried cherries provide a tart sweetness that pairs beautifully with the rich cocoa flavor. This treat is both sophisticated and comforting, making it a great gift or a special treat to enjoy during your afternoon break.
Full Recipe:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate
- 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until fully incorporated.
- Stir in chopped dark chocolate and dried cherries.
- Divide dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until firm to the touch. Let cool for 10 minutes.
- Slice each log into 1/2-inch slices and return to the baking sheet.
- Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes to crisp up the biscotti.
- Cool completely before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 110 kcal (per biscotti) | Servings: 24
Double Chocolate Biscotti with Cherries: A Delicious Twist on the Classic Biscotti
Biscotti, also known as cantucci, are a traditional Italian cookie that is known for its twice-baked, crisp texture. The name “biscotti” itself means “twice-baked,” and this cookie has been a beloved treat for centuries. The combination of rich, dark chocolate and dried cherries in this version adds an indulgent twist to the classic recipe. The double chocolate biscotti with cherries is a versatile and delightful treat that can be enjoyed by anyone who loves chocolate and a little extra flavor from fruit. Perfect for pairing with coffee, tea, or a glass of wine, this biscotti will surely impress your guests or make for a special treat on a cozy afternoon.
History and Origins of Biscotti
The origins of biscotti can be traced back to ancient Rome, where the ancestors of modern-day biscotti were made as a way to preserve bread for long periods of time. The original recipe was likely simple bread that was twice-baked to achieve a dry, hard texture that could last without spoiling. This practicality was particularly important for soldiers and travelers who needed food that would endure long journeys. It wasn’t until the 18th century in Tuscany that the recipe began to evolve into the sweet, flavorful treat that we know today.
Biscotti as we know it now are often flavored with nuts, fruit, chocolate, and other ingredients, and are beloved for their crunchy texture, which is perfect for dipping into hot drinks like coffee or tea. Double chocolate biscotti with cherries is a modern variation that combines the deep, bittersweet flavor of dark chocolate with the tart sweetness of dried cherries, making for an unforgettable flavor combination.
Why Double Chocolate Biscotti with Cherries is a Perfect Treat
This version of biscotti combines two of the most irresistible ingredients: rich dark chocolate and cherries. The chocolate adds a decadent depth to the biscotti, while the cherries offer a sweet and tangy contrast, making each bite a balanced experience of textures and flavors. This biscotti recipe is perfect for those who love chocolate, as the dark chocolate chunks bring a rich intensity that complements the slight chewiness of the dried cherries.
The texture of biscotti is also worth mentioning. Biscotti are crunchy but not overly hard, making them perfect for dipping in beverages like coffee or hot chocolate. The twice-baked method ensures that the cookies maintain their crispiness without becoming too dry or crumbly. It is this exact texture that makes biscotti so irresistible and enjoyable with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
The Versatility of Double Chocolate Biscotti with Cherries
One of the best things about biscotti is how versatile it is. Whether you are hosting a gathering or just enjoying a quiet moment at home, double chocolate biscotti with cherries can be adapted to suit a variety of occasions. For those who enjoy coffee or espresso, biscotti are a classic choice to serve alongside a warm drink. The crunchy texture and chocolatey flavor are a perfect complement to a hot cup of joe. This makes double chocolate biscotti with cherries a fantastic option for breakfast, brunch, or as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
In addition to being a great coffee companion, biscotti also make excellent gifts. You can easily package them in a decorative tin or gift box and give them to friends and family for birthdays, holidays, or other special occasions. The cherry and chocolate combination adds a touch of elegance, making these biscotti a more refined gift than traditional cookies. Furthermore, their long shelf life, thanks to the twice-baked nature of the biscuit, makes them ideal for mailing or gifting over long distances.
Healthier Indulgence: Why Choose Double Chocolate Biscotti with Cherries?
While biscotti are traditionally made with sugar and butter, they can be customized to suit various dietary preferences. By making this double chocolate biscotti with cherries at home, you can control the ingredients and make healthier choices. Dark chocolate is often considered a healthier option compared to milk chocolate, as it is lower in sugar and contains antioxidants. Additionally, dried cherries provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a great choice for adding natural sweetness and nutrients to the biscotti.
If you are looking to make this recipe even healthier, you could experiment with using whole wheat flour or almond flour in place of all-purpose flour, reducing the amount of sugar, or using a sugar substitute. These simple swaps can make the biscotti more nutritious while maintaining the delicious flavor.
Tips for Perfecting Your Double Chocolate Biscotti with Cherries
Baking the perfect biscotti can sometimes be tricky, but with the right tips and techniques, you can easily master the art of making them. Here are some expert tips to ensure your biscotti turn out perfectly every time:
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Use high-quality chocolate: The type of chocolate you use in the biscotti can make a significant difference in flavor. Choose a good quality dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa for a richer taste. The chocolate chunks or chips should be evenly distributed throughout the dough for a consistent flavor in every bite.
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Don’t overmix the dough: When preparing the dough, it’s important to mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough biscotti. A light hand ensures a crumbly, tender texture.
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Shape your logs evenly: When shaping the dough into logs, try to keep the logs uniform in thickness to ensure even baking. If the logs are uneven, they may bake unevenly, resulting in some parts being overcooked and others undercooked.
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Slice carefully: After baking the biscotti logs for the first time, allow them to cool slightly before slicing. This will help you get clean, straight slices that won’t crumble. Use a serrated knife for the best results.
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Customize the flavor: Biscotti are incredibly customizable, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different add-ins. If you love nuts, consider adding almonds or hazelnuts to your biscotti. You can also swap the dried cherries for other dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots, depending on what flavor you prefer.
Conclusion
Double chocolate biscotti with cherries is a delightful variation of the classic Italian treat. The deep, rich flavor of dark chocolate paired with the sweet-tart cherries creates a memorable flavor combination that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee or gifting it to someone special, these biscotti will quickly become a favorite in your household. The versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to customize the recipe make it a must-try for any home baker. With just a few simple ingredients and some careful attention to detail, you can create a batch of biscotti that is both delicious and visually appealing. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll have a treat that’s sure to impress everyone who takes a bite.