Biscotti are a delightful treat that not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also make for the perfect addition to any holiday gathering. With their crunchy texture and delightful flavour, these easy holiday biscotti are sure to impress family and friends alike. Dipped in white chocolate and complemented by pistachios and cranberries, they’re a festive favourite that can be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.
What You’ll Need for Easy Holiday Biscotti
To whip up a batch of these delicious biscotti, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup (90g) coarsely chopped pistachios
- 2/3 cup (80g) dried cranberries, chopped
- 12 oz (340g) white chocolate chips, melted
How to Make Easy Holiday Biscotti
Ready to create these festive delights? Follow these simple steps:
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Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Mix the wet ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the granulated sugar, room temperature butter, lemon zest, and salt. Mix until the mixture is creamy and well blended.
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Add the eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
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Combine the dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour and baking powder, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
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Incorporate nuts and cranberries: Gently fold in the chopped pistachios and dried cranberries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
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Shape the dough: Divide the dough in half and shape each piece into a loaf approximately 10"x3" on a lightly floured surface.
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Bake the loaves: Place the loaves onto the prepared cookie sheet and bake for about 30 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown.
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Cool and slice: Allow the loaves to cool on the cookie sheet for 15 minutes. Then, slice them diagonally into 1/2" thick pieces.
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Bake the slices: Return the slices to the cookie sheet, cut side down, and bake for another 8 to 9 minutes. Flip the slices and bake for an additional 8 to 9 minutes or until they are crisp.
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Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring until smooth.
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Dip and drizzle: Dip the bottom cut side of each biscotti into the melted chocolate, scraping off any excess. Drizzle the remaining chocolate over the tops of the biscotti.
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Set the chocolate: Place the finished biscotti in the refrigerator to let the chocolate set.
Serve & Enjoy Easy Holiday Biscotti
These easy holiday biscotti are perfect for serving at festive gatherings. Place them on a decorative platter or in a festive jar to create a beautiful presentation. They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even mulled wine for a warming festive drink. For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of crushed pistachios on top of the chocolate drizzle for a lovely garnish.
Helpful Tricks for Easy Holiday Biscotti
- Store for later: Biscotti can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks, making them perfect for preparing in advance.
- Customise the mix-ins: Feel free to swap out the pistachios and cranberries for your favourite nuts or dried fruits. Almonds and apricots also make a fantastic combination.
- Control the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet biscotti, reduce the amount of sugar slightly or omit the chocolate dip.
Easy Holiday Biscotti FAQs
Can I make these biscotti gluten-free?
Yes, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
How do I store leftover biscotti?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. If they become too soft, you can pop them back in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up again.
Can I freeze biscotti?
Absolutely! Biscotti freeze well. Just ensure they are fully cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
These easy holiday biscotti are not just a treat; they’re an experience filled with joy and flavour. Give this recipe a go and watch them disappear at your next holiday gathering! Enjoy baking!