Orange-Infused White Chocolate Cranberry Almond Biscotti
These biscotti are a delightful blend of flavors, offering sweet cranberries, nutty almonds, and creamy white chocolate. A touch of orange zest and optional orange extract adds a burst of citrus to brighten the palate. They are perfect for enjoying with coffee or tea. You can customize them by adding white chocolate chips directly to the batter, drizzling melted white chocolate on top, or dipping one end in white chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence. For added texture and sweetness, consider brushing the biscotti logs with a whisked egg and sprinkling turbinado sugar before baking.
24 pieces
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Unsalted butter
1/4 cup (softened)
White sugar
3/4 cup
Orange zest
1 tablespoon
Vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon
Eggs
2 (room temperature)
Egg white
1 (room temperature)
All-purpose flour
2 cups
Baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons
Salt
1/4 teaspoon
Dried cranberries
1/2 cup
Almonds
1 1/4 cups (whole or slivered)
White chocolate chips
(for melting)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, orange zest, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3
Add eggs and the egg white to the creamed mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4
Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully blended.
5
Gently fold in the dried cranberries and almonds until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6
Lightly spray your hands with cooking spray to handle the sticky dough, and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a slightly flattened log. Place logs on the prepared baking sheet with at least 3 inches between them.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes or until the logs are a pale golden color.
8
Remove from the oven and allow the logs to cool slightly on the baking sheet until they are safe to handle.
9
Transfer logs to a cutting board and slice them diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces.
10
Arrange the slices on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the biscotti are golden brown.
11
Move the baked biscotti to wire racks and allow them to cool completely.
12
Once cooled, drizzle or dip each biscotti with melted white chocolate as desired.
13
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Orange-Infused White Chocolate Cranberry Almond Biscotti?
They are delightful Italian-style cookies that blend sweet cranberries, nutty almonds, creamy white chocolate, and citrusy orange zest for a bright, crunchy treat.
How many pieces does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 24 pieces.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 325°F (165°C).
How should the butter be prepared?
Use 1/4 cup of unsalted butter that has been softened to room temperature.
What is the first step in the mixing process?
Cream together the butter, sugar, orange zest, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
Why should I use room temperature eggs?
Room temperature eggs emulsify more easily into the dough, resulting in a more uniform texture.
What dry ingredients are needed?
You will need 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
How do I handle the sticky dough?
Lightly spray your hands with cooking spray to make it easier to shape the dough into logs.
How many logs should I form?
Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a slightly flattened log.
How far apart should the logs be placed?
Place the logs on the baking sheet with at least 3 inches of space between them.
How long is the first bake?
Bake the logs for approximately 30 minutes until they are a pale golden color.
When should I slice the biscotti logs?
Allow the logs to cool slightly on the baking sheet after the first bake until they are safe to handle, then move them to a cutting board.
How thick should I cut the biscotti slices?
Slice the logs diagonally into pieces that are 1-inch thick.
How long is the second bake?
Bake the slices for an additional 15 minutes or until they reach a golden brown color.
What is the best way to cool the biscotti?
Transfer the baked biscotti to wire racks and let them cool completely.
How do I incorporate the white chocolate?
You can drizzle melted white chocolate over the top or dip one end of the cooled biscotti for an indulgent finish.
Can I add white chocolate chips directly to the batter?
Yes, white chocolate chips can be folded into the dough along with the nuts and fruit.
What kind of almonds should I use?
You can use 1 1/4 cups of either whole or slivered almonds.
How do I store the finished biscotti?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
How long do these biscotti stay fresh?
They will stay fresh for up to two weeks when stored properly.
Can I add more orange flavor?
Yes, you can add a touch of orange extract to the batter for a more intense citrus burst.
What is a good way to add extra sweetness and crunch to the crust?
Brush the dough logs with a whisked egg and sprinkle with turbinado sugar before the first bake.
What are the ideal pairings for this treat?
These biscotti are perfect for enjoying with coffee, tea, or even a glass of dessert wine.
What equipment is necessary for this recipe?
You will need an oven, baking sheet, parchment paper, electric mixer, mixing bowls, and a wire cooling rack.
Can I substitute the dried cranberries?
While cranberries are traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with other dried fruits like cherries or apricots.
Should the flour be sifted?
Yes, sifting the flour with the baking powder and salt ensures even distribution and a better texture.
How many eggs are required?
The recipe calls for 2 whole eggs and 1 additional egg white.
Is parchment paper necessary?
Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper is recommended to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
What gives the biscotti their orange flavor?
The primary source of flavor is 1 tablespoon of orange zest.
Why is the dough baked twice?
Biscotti are double-baked to achieve their signature dry, crunchy texture which makes them ideal for dipping.