Chocolate Walnut Biscotti are a delightful twist on the classic Italian cookie, offering a perfect combination of crunchy, nutty, and chocolatey flavors. These biscotti are made with rich cocoa powder and studded with chunks of toasted walnuts, making them an ideal treat for coffee lovers or anyone with a sweet tooth. Twice-baked to achieve a crisp, satisfying texture, these cookies are perfect for dipping in your favorite hot beverage. Whether enjoyed as a snack or given as a gift, Chocolate Walnut Biscotti are a simple yet sophisticated homemade treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted (optional, for brushing)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined. Stir in the toasted walnuts and chocolate chips.
- Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 3 inches apart.
- Bake the First Time: Bake the logs for 25-30 minutes, or until they are firm to the touch and slightly cracked on top. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes.
- Slice and Bake Again: Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). Carefully transfer the logs to a cutting board. Using a serrated knife, slice the logs into 1/2-inch wide slices. Place the slices cut side down back on the baking sheet. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, flipping the biscotti halfway through, until the cookies are crisp and lightly browned.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack. Optionally, brush the cooled biscotti with a light coating of melted butter for a slightly glossy finish.
These Chocolate Walnut Biscotti are perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. Their crisp texture and rich flavor make them a great snack any time of day, and they also make a thoughtful gift for friends and family.