When the holiday season rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the inviting aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the house. My kitchen transforms into a cozy little haven, and this year, my heart is set on creating something particularly special: Double Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti. Imagine the sound of a crisp biscotti crackling as you take a bite, the rich chocolate intertwining seamlessly with the crunch of perfectly roasted hazelnuts. It’s a texture paradise that pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa, making it the ideal treat for those cherished gatherings.

What I love most about this biscotti is how effortlessly it balances indulgence and warmth—a hug in cookie form! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also delights your guests. This recipe is my go-to for sharing, as it evokes the kind of nostalgia that makes everyone feel at home. Let’s dive into the deliciousness together, and make this holiday season sweeter with homemade Double Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti!

Why You’ll Love This Double Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti

Irresistible Crunch: Each bite of this biscotti delivers a satisfying crunch that complements the rich chocolate and nutty hazelnuts perfectly.
Simple Ingredients: Whip up this holiday treat with pantry staples; it’s an easy yet rewarding recipe for bakers of all skill levels.
Perfect Pairing: Enjoy these biscotti with your favorite coffee or warm cocoa, enhancing your holiday experience—ideal for cozy gatherings with loved ones.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to customize with spices, fruits, or different nuts; the options are endless! For more delightful ideas, check out my White Chocolate Raspberry recipe.
Storable Sweetness: Keep in an airtight container for two weeks, ensuring you’ll have a delicious treat ready whenever the sweet cravings strike.
Nostalgic Touch: Bake these to create a warm atmosphere and share fond memories with family and friends during the festive season.

Double Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti Ingredients

• Indulge in the rich flavors and textures!

For the Biscotti

All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the biscotti; can substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; ensure it’s unsweetened for perfect balance.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the biscotti, but using brown sugar can deepen the flavor profile.
Eggs – Binds the ingredients together; for egg-free, use flaxseed meal or applesauce as a substitute.
Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent to achieve a lighter texture.

For the Mix-Ins

Chocolate chips – Intensifies the chocolate flavor; dark or semi-sweet chips work best, while white chocolate provides a delightful contrast.
Hazelnuts – Offers a crunchy texture and nutty flavor; you can swap them for walnuts or pecans if you like.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile, tying all the ingredients together beautifully.

This Double Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti is sure to elevate your holiday festivities with its decadent taste!

How to Make Double Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prepares the perfect environment for your biscotti to develop a delightful crunch.
Combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir until well integrated. This dry mix provides the foundation for your chocolatey goodness!
Whisk together sugar and eggs in a separate bowl until the mixture is pale and frothy. Then, add in the vanilla extract. This step brings sweetness and aroma, enhancing the biscotti’s flavor.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture to form a dough. Fold in the chocolate chips and hazelnuts until evenly distributed, creating that rich texture you crave!
Shape the dough into a log on the prepared baking sheet, flattening it slightly. This will help the biscotti bake evenly and develop that lovely crispy edge.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the log is firm and set. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes to make slicing easier.
Slice the log into individual biscotti pieces at a diagonal angle. Aim for about ¾-inch thick pieces for the perfect bite-sized treat.
Return the sliced biscotti to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes to let them get beautifully crisp. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
Cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing. This ensures your biscotti are perfectly crunchy, ready to be enjoyed!

Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Double Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti Variations

Embrace your inner chef and customize this delightful treat to suit your taste buds!

Dried Fruit: Add diced cranberries or cherries for a pop of sweetness and tartness that balances beautifully with chocolate.
Nut Swap: Replace hazelnuts with almonds or pistachios for a delightful twist on flavor and texture that can surprise your palate.
Spicy Chocolate: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a subtle heat that enhances the chocolate richness in a surprising way.
Citrus Zest: Add orange or lemon zest to the dough for a bright, zesty flavor that elevates the overall experience.
Gluten-Free: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend to make this biscotti suitable for gluten-sensitive friends without sacrificing taste.
Nut Butter: Swirl in a couple of tablespoons of almond or hazelnut butter to create a richer, creamier dough that melts in your mouth.
Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle melted white or dark chocolate on top after baking—irresistibly decadent and aesthetically pleasing!
Herbal Note: Experiment with a hint of fresh rosemary or thyme for a surprising herbal twist—perfectly intriguing alongside the chocolate.

Make Ahead Options

Double Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti is an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance. Additionally, the biscotti dough can be formed into a log and wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only ensures fresher flavors but also makes it easier to slice when you’re ready to bake. Once baked, allow the biscotti to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container, where they’ll stay fresh for weeks. When it’s time to enjoy, simply serve with your favorite coffee or cocoa for a delightful treat that’s just as delicious as freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Double Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti

Room Temperature: Store your biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks; this maintains their delightful crunch and flavor.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual biscotti tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: If you prefer your biscotti warm, reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes; this restores their crispy texture.

Refreshing Flavor: For the best taste experience, briefly toast previously frozen biscotti after thawing. It enhances the chocolate and hazelnut flavors wonderfully!

What to Serve with Double Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti?

Indulging in homemade biscotti offers a chance to create a delightful spread that enhances every bite.

Rich Espresso: The bold flavors of espresso complement the chocolate and hazelnuts, creating a beautifully balanced pairing that warms your heart.
Creamy Hot Cocoa: A sweet, velvety cup provides a comforting backdrop for this crunchy treat, drawing you into a cozy winter daydream.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream melts into the crispy biscotti, creating a delectable contrast that is simply irresistible.
Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy berries add a refreshing pop of flavor, cutting through the richness while bringing a vibrant color to your dessert table.
Cheese Platter: Serve alongside a selection of soft cheeses for a savory twist; the creaminess beautifully offsets the biscotti’s crunch.
Dessert Wine: A glass of dessert wine enhances the treat’s richness, making it a wonderful choice for festive gatherings or quiet evenings.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warming spices in chai blend perfectly with the chocolate, creating a soothing experience that feels like a cozy hug.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: An indulgent drizzle of caramel adds a touch of sweetness that magnifies the flavors, making each bite feel like a decadent celebration.
Peppermint Tea: For a lighter option, peppermint tea cleanses the palate, allowing you to fully enjoy the decadent chocolate and hazelnut flavors.

Expert Tips for Double Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti

Cooling Control: Ensure the biscotti cool completely before slicing; this prevents crumbling and helps maintain its beautiful shape.
Watch Your Bake: During the second bake, keep a close eye on the biscotti to avoid over-browning; golden brown edges are your goal for that perfect crunch.
Substitution Secrets: If you’re nut-free or allergic, feel free to leave out the hazelnuts or swap them for seeds; just remember that the final texture may vary a bit!
Flavor Boost: For enhanced flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough; this elevates the chocolate experience.
Storage Solutions: Store your Double Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to keep them fresh and crunchy.

Double Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best hazelnuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for hazelnuts that are firm, plump, and free from dark spots or any signs of moisture. If they’re already roasted, that’s ideal, as it enhances their flavor. If you buy raw hazelnuts, I recommend toasting them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes to develop that rich taste before adding them to your biscotti dough.

Can I store Double Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti at room temperature?
Yes, you can! Store your biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks for the best freshness and crunch. Make sure the biscotti are completely cooled before sealing them away; this prevents any unwanted moisture that could lead to sogginess.

How can I freeze my biscotti for later enjoyment?
Very easily! To freeze your biscotti, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them into a freezer-safe bag. This method ensures they stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours or overnight, and reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore that delightful crunch.

What should I do if my biscotti crumbles when slicing?
No worries! If your biscotti crumble while you’re slicing, it’s likely because they weren’t cooled fully before cutting. For future batches, ensure you let the log cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing, and use a serrated knife to gently saw through the log instead of pressing down. This method helps keep those lovely shapes intact!

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Yes! While this recipe features wheat and nuts, adjustments can be made for common dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. To make it nut-free, you could skip the hazelnuts altogether or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds for a different crunch without the allergens. Always check labels and ingredients thoroughly if you’re catering to specific allergies.

Can I add extra flavors or ingredients to the biscotti?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. Feel free to mix in some spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or add dried fruits like cranberries for a fruity kick! If you wish to change the nuts, almonds or even pecans would work beautifully. The more the merrier when it comes to personal touches!