Double Chocolate Cherry Biscotti: A Decadent Delight

Biscotti, meaning “twice-baked” in Italian, are delightfully crunchy cookies perfect for dunking in coffee, tea, or even a glass of dessert wine. This double chocolate cherry biscotti recipe elevates the classic treat with the rich, intense flavor of cocoa and chocolate chips, complemented by the sweet-tart chewiness of dried cherries. These biscotti are not only delicious but also keep well, making them ideal for gifting or enjoying over several days.

This recipe is designed to be approachable for bakers of all skill levels. We’ll guide you through each step, from mixing the dough to the crucial double-baking process that gives biscotti its signature texture. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of chocolate and cherries!

## Ingredients:

* **Dry Ingredients:**
* 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
* 3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* **Wet Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar
* 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but enhances the flavor)
* **Add-Ins:**
* 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
* 1 cup (140g) dried cherries, coarsely chopped

## Equipment:

* Large mixing bowl
* Electric mixer (stand or hand-held)
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Baking sheets
* Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
* Sharp knife or pizza cutter
* Wire rack

## Instructions:

### Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, resulting in a consistent texture.

### Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps to create a tender biscotti.

### Step 3: Add the Eggs and Extracts

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using). The eggs provide structure and richness to the dough, while the extracts add depth of flavor.

### Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough biscotti. A few streaks of flour are okay at this stage.

### Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate Chips and Cherries

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped dried cherries until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step adds the signature double chocolate and cherry flavors to the biscotti.

### Step 6: Shape the Dough

Divide the dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, shape each half into a log approximately 12 inches long and 3 inches wide. The logs should be relatively even in thickness to ensure even baking.

### Step 7: First Bake

Place the logs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the logs are firm to the touch and slightly cracked on top. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them.

### Step 8: Cool and Slice

Remove the logs from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly, making them easier to slice. Using a sharp serrated knife or pizza cutter, carefully slice the logs into 1/2-inch thick slices. Cut the slices straight across for a traditional biscotti shape, or at a slight angle for a more elegant look.

### Step 9: Second Bake

Arrange the biscotti slices cut-side up on the baking sheet. Bake for another 8-10 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crisp. The second bake is crucial for achieving the signature crunchy texture of biscotti. Keep a close watch on them during this stage to prevent burning.

### Step 10: Cool Completely

Remove the biscotti from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. As they cool, they will continue to harden and become even more crunchy.

## Tips for Perfect Biscotti:

* **Don’t overmix the dough:** Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough biscotti. Mix until just combined.
* **Use a sharp knife for slicing:** A sharp serrated knife or pizza cutter will create clean slices without crumbling the biscotti.
* **Don’t skip the second bake:** The second bake is essential for achieving the signature crunchy texture of biscotti. Be patient and allow them to bake until golden brown and crisp.
* **Cool completely before storing:** Cooling the biscotti completely before storing prevents them from becoming soft or soggy.
* **Adjust sweetness to your preference:** If you prefer a less sweet biscotti, reduce the amount of sugar slightly.
* **Experiment with flavors:** Biscotti are a versatile cookie that can be customized with a variety of flavors and add-ins. Try adding nuts, spices, or different types of dried fruit.

## Variations:

* **Nuts:** Add 1 cup of chopped almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios to the dough for a nutty crunch.
* **Spices:** Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
* **Citrus zest:** Add the zest of 1 orange or lemon to the wet ingredients for a bright, citrusy note.
* **White chocolate:** Substitute white chocolate chips for the semi-sweet chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
* **Espresso:** Add 1-2 teaspoons of instant espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a coffee-flavored biscotti.
* **Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti:** Replace the cherries with dried cranberries and add chopped pistachios.

## Serving Suggestions:

* **Dunk in coffee or tea:** The classic way to enjoy biscotti is to dunk them in a hot beverage. The crunchy texture softens slightly, creating a delightful contrast.
* **Serve with dessert wine:** Biscotti pairs beautifully with a glass of Vin Santo or other sweet dessert wine. The flavors complement each other perfectly.
* **Enjoy as a snack:** Biscotti are a satisfying and portable snack that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere.
* **Crush and use as a topping:** Crush biscotti and sprinkle them over ice cream, yogurt, or other desserts for added texture and flavor.
* **Give as a gift:** Biscotti make a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift. Package them in a pretty tin or cellophane bag.

## Storage:

Store biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage. To freeze, wrap the biscotti tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before serving.

## Nutritional Information (approximate, per biscotti):

* Calories: 120
* Fat: 5g
* Saturated Fat: 3g
* Cholesterol: 20mg
* Sodium: 50mg
* Carbohydrates: 18g
* Sugar: 10g
* Protein: 2g

## Conclusion:

This double chocolate cherry biscotti recipe is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich chocolate flavor, chewy cherries, and satisfying crunch, it’s sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of these irresistible biscotti. Happy baking!