Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti

Name: Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 biscotti
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3/4 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Favorites

I absolutely love making Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti during the holiday season. The combination of rich chocolate and tart cranberries creates a delightful flavor that perfectly contrasts the crunch of the biscotti. Each bite offers a warming sweetness, making it a welcoming treat for guests or a cozy evening snack with tea. The best part is, these biscotti are easy to make and can be stored for weeks, so I can enjoy them long after I've baked a fresh batch.

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-12T05:29:35.064Z

As I experimented with various biscotti recipes, I found that adding dried cranberries not only enhances the flavor but also gives a beautiful pop of color. The trick to achieving the perfect texture is to bake them twice—first as a loaf and then as individual pieces. This method ensures that they become irresistibly crunchy, which is essential for a great biscotti.

When I first tested this recipe, the balance of chocolate and cranberries surprised me. The sweetness of the chocolate paired with the tartness of the cranberries created a delightful harmony. To make them extra special, I also drizzle a bit of melted chocolate on top before serving—it elevates these biscotti to a whole new level of indulgence!

        Reasons You'll Love This Biscotti
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart cranberries
Perfectly crunchy texture that's ideal for dipping
Easily customizable with nuts or spices

      

Biscotti Basics: Texture and Crunch

Achieving that perfect crunch is crucial for any biscotti recipe, and this one is no exception. When shaping the dough into a log, ensure it’s about 12 inches long and 2-3 inches wide. This width facilitates an even bake, allowing the edges to crisp while keeping the center slightly chewier. During the second bake, watch for golden edges as an indicator of their readiness; they should feel firm and sound hollow when tapped.

The dual-baking technique is what sets biscotti apart from other cookies. The first bake gives them shape and initial firmness, while the second bake delivers that signature snap. To avoid any overly dry pieces, make sure to slice them while the log is still a bit warm. If they’re too cool, they can crumble during cutting, reducing the size of your perfectly formed treats.

Ingredient Insights: Chocolate and Cranberries

In this recipe, the cocoa provides a rich, deep flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the tartness of dried cranberries. Dried cranberries can vary in sweetness, so taste a few before mixing them in to adjust the sugar level to your preference. You can also use other dried fruits like cherries or apricots if you're looking for a different flavor profile. Just remember to chop larger fruits into similar-sized pieces for even distribution.

The chocolate chips add a delightful melt-in-your-mouth texture, but you can customize this further by using dark, milk, or even white chocolate, depending on your sweet tooth. If you prefer a healthier twist, try substituting unsweetened chocolate and reducing the sugar a tad. This will maintain the rich flavor while adding a more intense cocoa taste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start making your delicious Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti:

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chocolate chips

These ingredients will help you bake a delicious batch of biscotti!

Instructions

Follow these steps for making your biscotti:

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until pale and fluffy. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, and stir in the cranberries and chocolate chips until evenly incorporated.

Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Shape the dough into a log about 12 inches long and place it on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.

Slice and Second Bake

After the log has cooled slightly, slice it diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces. Place the slices back on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes to crisp up the edges.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti with a warm drink!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider dipping half of each biscotti in melted chocolate after cooling and let them set on parchment paper.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti are perfect for make-ahead planning. Once baked, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks, but I often find they’re best enjoyed within the first week as their texture can soften over time. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply wrap each biscotti in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy the frozen biscotti, take them out and allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer a crispier texture, you can pop them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Biscotti are often enjoyed with a hot beverage, making them ideal for cozy afternoons. Serve these Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea. The rich chocolate pairs wonderfully with robust black tea or a mocha coffee, enhancing the overall experience. For a festive touch, consider serving them on a decorative platter, perhaps dusted lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

If you want to elevate your biscotti experience, consider making a simple dipping sauce. Melt some extra chocolate and drizzle it over the biscotti or serve alongside a small bowl for dipping. A side of whipped cream can also provide a lovely contrast to the crunch, adding a creamy element to this delightful treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

It's not recommended, as fresh cranberries contain a lot of moisture and may affect the texture.

→ How long do these biscotti stay fresh?

They can last up to 3 weeks in an airtight container at room temperature.

→ Can I freeze the biscotti?

Yes, they freeze well! Just make sure to store them in a sealable bag or container.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute if you're looking for an egg-free version.