I can’t tell you how excited I am to share my recipe for Cranberry Chocolate Chip Biscotti! This delightful treat has become a staple in my kitchen, partly because it summarily combines two of my favorite flavors: tart cranberries and rich, melty chocolate. It’s inspired by a rainy afternoon where I craved something sweet to pair with my cup of tea, and this biscotti fit the bill perfectly. The first time I made it, the aroma wafted through my house and literally lured my family into the kitchen—it was like magic!
Biscotti is wonderful because it’s not just a cookie; it’s a twice-baked delight that transforms into the perfect dunking biscuit. Whether I’m enjoying it with tea, coffee, or just on its own as a quick snack, there’s something both cozy and sophisticated about biscotti. Plus, they last for ages—if they last that long in my house!
What’s in Cranberry Chocolate Chip Biscotti?
Let me walk you through the star ingredients for this biscotti. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that delightful crunch and flavor combo that will leave you reaching for just one more!
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of the biscotti. I usually grab whatever brand is handy, but organic flour can make a lovely difference in texture.
Sugar: I use granulated sugar in the recipe since it balances out the tartness of the cranberries and enhances the sweetness of the chocolate.
Butter: A must-have for richness! Unsalted butter is my go-to so I can control the salt levels in the final dough.
Eggs: They bind everything together and create that lovely chewy texture. Large eggs are what I typically use.
Dried Cranberries: The tart burst of flavor you’ll love with every bite! I prefer sweetened dried cranberries, which nicely complements the chocolate.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips work great here. I’m a bit biased towards dark chocolate, but use what you love!
Baking Powder: Just a teaspoon gives the biscotti the perfect lift without losing that signature crunch.
Vanilla Extract: A splash brings out all the flavors and adds a warm, comforting aroma.
Is Cranberry Chocolate Chip Biscotti Good for You?
Now, you might be wondering if indulging in biscotti is a wise choice health-wise. Well, here’s the scoop!
Dried Cranberries: These little gems are packed with antioxidants and can be beneficial for heart health. Just remember that they can be sugary!
Dark Chocolate: If you choose dark chocolate, you’re also gaining some health benefits, including improved heart health and brain function due to its high antioxidant content.
Portion Control: While biscotti is a delightful treat, moderation is key. Enjoying one or two with your coffee in the morning is a good way to relish this delicacy without going overboard!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
This recipe will yield about 24 biscotti, perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the week!
How to Make Cranberry Chocolate Chip Biscotti?
Rolling up your sleeves? Let’s get baking!
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this will make the transfer of the biscotti a breeze.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Add the cranberries and chocolate chips and mix until evenly distributed.
5. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long and 3 inches wide on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
7. Slice the logs diagonally, about 1-inch thick. Lay the slices cut side down back onto the baking sheet.
8. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, then flip the biscotti and bake for an additional 10 minutes. They should be crisp and golden.
9. Let them cool completely on a wire rack and dig in!
Perfect Pairings and Tips
If you’re considering serving these beauties with a little flair, let me offer you some delicious ideas. These biscotti go perfectly with a velvety cup of coffee or herbal tea. You can also create a fun dessert platter with assorted biscotti and a spiced hot chocolate for a cozy gathering.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, try tossing in some nuts, like almonds or walnuts, or even a little orange zest for a citrus twist. Store them in an airtight container, and they’ll last for several weeks—if you can resist devouring them all in one go!
I truly hope you give this Cranberry Chocolate Chip Biscotti a try. It’s a cozy treat just waiting to warm your kitchen and brighten your day. Once you taste that perfect crunch paired with the fruity cranberries and chocolate, you might just find yourself making it every week. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! I’d love to hear how yours turn out or any fun variations you create. Happy baking!