The scent of citrus mingling with the warmth of almonds instantly transports me to cozy holiday gatherings, where homemade treats steal the spotlight. These Cranberry Orange Biscotti bring that festive spirit to life, perfectly crunchy and studded with tangy cranberries. They’re not only a delightful companion for your morning coffee but also an impressive gift for friends and family. With a quick prep time and endless variations, this recipe makes holiday baking effortless and fun. Imagine adding your favorite nuts or spices to create a biscotti that’s uniquely yours. So, ready to transform your kitchen into a holiday haven with these tasty treats? Let’s dive in!

Why are Cranberry Orange Biscotti Irresistible?

Crunchy Delight: These biscotti boast a perfect balance of crunch and chew, making them the ideal snack for any time of the day.

Festive Flavor: The blend of bright orange zest and tart cranberries captures the essence of the holiday season in each bite.

Customizable Options: Easily swap in your favorite nuts or dried fruits, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your taste. Got a nut allergy? Try my gluten-free biscotti recipe.

Quick Prep Time: Whip these up in just a few simple steps, making holiday baking more manageable and fun!

Gift-Worthy Treat: Packaged beautifully, these biscotti make perfect gifts for friends, family, or even office colleagues, spreading cheer and deliciousness!

Cranberry Orange Biscotti Ingredients

• Dive into the delightful world of baking with these essential ingredients!

For the Biscotti Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and crunch. Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Baking Powder – Leavening agent to help the biscotti rise slightly; can be replaced with baking soda, adjusting other ingredients as needed.
Salt – Enhances flavor; kosher or sea salt works best.
Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free version.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the biscotti; brown sugar can deepen the flavor.
Orange Zest – Infuses a fragrant citrus flavor; lime or lemon zest are great substitutes.
Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients together; for an egg-free option, consider chia or flaxseed eggs.
Pure Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; almond extract is a lovely alternative.

For the Mix-ins

Toasted Almonds – Provides crunch and nuttiness; pecans or walnuts can be used as well.
Dried Cranberries – Adds chewiness and tartness; feel free to substitute with apricots or raisins if desired.

For the White Chocolate Drizzle

White Chocolate – Dipping ingredient that enhances sweetness; dark chocolate can be used for a less sweet option perfect for your Cranberry Orange Biscotti.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Orange Biscotti

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step ensures that your Cranberry Orange Biscotti will bake evenly and come out with a lovely golden color.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This mixture provides structure to your biscotti, balancing the sweetness from the sugar and adding depth. Setting this aside will allow the flavors to meld beautifully when combined with the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter and ¾ cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer. The mixture should be pale and airy, which is essential for the texture of your Cranberry Orange Biscotti. Next, add in the zest of one orange and continue to beat, infusing the batter with citrus brightness.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add two large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, enhancing the flavors. This addition creates a rich, moist base that binds all your ingredients together while uplifting the overall taste of your biscotti.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want your dough to stay tender. Gently fold in ½ cup of toasted almonds and ½ cup of dried cranberries, ensuring an even distribution of these delicious and festive flavors throughout the dough.

Step 6: Form the Biscotti Logs
Divide the dough in half and transfer each piece onto the prepared baking sheets. Form each portion into a log approximately 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Make sure the logs are even and smooth, as this will help them bake uniformly into crunchy Cranberry Orange Biscotti deliciously ready for slicing.

Step 7: First Bake
Bake the logs in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. The delightful aroma of orange and toasted almonds will fill your kitchen as they bake! Once done, remove the logs from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 8: Slice and Second Bake
Using a serrated knife, slice the logs diagonally into ½-inch thick pieces while they are still warm. Arrange the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet. Return the sliced biscotti to the oven and reduce the temperature to 275°F (135°C). Bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until they are crisp and dried out; they should snap lightly when broken in half.

Step 9: Cool and Dip in Chocolate
After the second bake, remove the biscotti from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. While they cool, melt your white chocolate using a double boiler or microwave. Once melted, dip the ends of each cooled biscotti into the chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off. This delightful topping enhances their festive appeal and adds a luxurious finish to your Cranberry Orange Biscotti.

Cranberry Orange Biscotti Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your biscotti with these delicious twists and substitutes!

Nutty Alternative: Swap almonds for toasted pecans or walnuts for a different flavor and texture. The nuttiness will blend seamlessly with the orange zest.
Dried Fruit Swap: Use dried cherries or apricots in place of cranberries. This will add a unique sweetness and color to your biscotti, changing up the taste profile.
Citrus Zest Twist: Replace orange zest with lemon or even grapefruit zest for a refreshing citrus kick. Each variation will bring its own bright character to the biscotti!
Spicy Addition: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm hug of spice perfect for holiday vibes. This simple addition can truly elevate your treat.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute coconut oil for unsalted butter and use a plant-based white chocolate for a delightful dairy-free biscotti that everyone can enjoy.
Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Dip biscotti in dark or even peppermint chocolate for a festive seasonal flair. These variations can add a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will adore!
Gluten-Free: Enjoy a gluten-free version by using a reliable 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. It will still yield that cherished crunchy texture while being accessible to those with dietary needs.
Extra Crunch: Add crushed pistachios to the dough for added crunch and a beautiful pop of color, enhancing both aesthetics and flavor. Your biscotti will be a feast for the eyes and the palate!

Dive into these customization options to make your Cranberry Orange Biscotti uniquely yours! Enjoy experimenting while getting inspired by delicious flavors. If you need more ideas, consider checking out my gluten-free biscotti recipe or exploring my chocolate variations for even more delightful options.

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Orange Biscotti are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade treats with minimal fuss! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Alternatively, shape the logs and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before baking. To maintain their crunchy texture, slice and bake them fresh, ensuring they lose no quality. When ready to enjoy, just follow the second bake instructions to crisp them up and dip them in white chocolate for a delightful finishing touch. With these options, the festive treats are just a quick bake away!

Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Biscotti

Knead Gently: Overworking the dough can lead to tough biscotti. Knead just until combined for the perfect texture.
Slice Warm: Always slice the biscotti while they are still warm. This prevents crumbling and ensures neat, clean cuts, creating beautiful pieces.
Freeze for Freshness: If you have extra dough, freeze it for future baking. Thaw completely before slicing and baking as per the instructions for delicious cranberry orange biscotti anytime!
Chocolate Variations: Experiment with different chocolate types for dipping! Dark chocolate provides a less sweet option, perfect for balancing the biscotti’s flavors.
Flavors Galore: Feel free to customize with your favorite dried fruits or nuts. This versatility makes each batch uniquely yours, capturing your personal flavor profile!
Storage Matters: For the best flavor and crunch, store your biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature. Enjoy them for up to three weeks!

What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Biscotti

These delightful biscotti are perfect for crafting a heartwarming holiday spread that pairs beautifully with your favorite drinks and sides.

Hot Coffee: The rich bitterness of coffee complements the sweet, crunchy texture of the biscotti, enriching each bite with aromatic warmth.
Creamy Hot Chocolate: Indulge in the luscious creaminess of hot chocolate, creating a delicious balance to the crispy biscotti.
Herbal Tea: A calming herbal tea offers a lighter alternative that allows the orange and cranberry flavors to shine through.
Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses contrasts nicely with the biscotti’s sweetness, adding savory elements to your snack time.
Fruit and Nut Medley: Pair with fresh fruits like pears or apples to refresh your palate, while nuts enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
Festive Fruit Compote: Serve alongside warm fruit compote for a delightful dip, blending sweet, tart flavors in each crunchy bite.
Spiced Eggnog: This rich, festive drink enhances the warm spices of the holiday season, making every dunk a cozy experience.
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Consider using biscotti as a unique base for ice cream sandwiches; the crunch adds an exciting texture to homemade treats!

Storage Tips for Cranberry Orange Biscotti

Room Temperature: Store your biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 weeks. This helps maintain their delightful crunchiness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy your biscotti later, freeze them without the chocolate for up to 3 months. Wrap each biscotti in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating: To restore crispness, place frozen biscotti in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Enjoy them warm with your favorite beverage!

Chocolate Storage: If already dipped in chocolate, consume within a week for the best flavor, as the chocolate may lose its snap over time.

Cranberry Orange Biscotti Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best dried cranberries for my biscotti?
When choosing dried cranberries, look for plump, moist berries without added sugars or preservatives. The best ones will have a rich color and a soft texture, which ensures that they contribute the right amount of chewiness to your Cranberry Orange Biscotti.

What is the best way to store Cranberry Orange Biscotti?
To keep your biscotti fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 weeks. Placing a piece of parchment paper between layers can help maintain their crunch. If you want to enjoy them later, freeze your biscotti without the chocolate for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then put them in a freezer-safe bag for optimal freshness.

Can I freeze the dough for my Cranberry Orange Biscotti?
Absolutely! To freeze the dough, shape it into logs and wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped logs in a freezer bag and store them for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight, slice, and follow the baking instructions as usual.

What should I do if my biscotti are too soft after the second bake?
If you find that your biscotti are still soft after the second bake, try placing them back in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes at 275°F (135°C). Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-baking. The goal is to achieve that perfect crispy texture, and a little extra time can make all the difference!

Are there any dietary considerations for Cranberry Orange Biscotti?
Yes! If you have specific dietary needs, you can make adjustments to the recipe. Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version, coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option, or replace eggs with chia or flaxseed eggs for an egg-free variety. Always double-check the ingredients in your dried cranberries and chocolate for allergens!

How can I customize the flavors of my Cranberry Orange Biscotti?
The beauty of these biscotti lies in their versatility! Feel free to mix in different types of nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, or swap out the cranberries for your favorite dried fruits like cherries or apricots. Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can also elevate the flavor, especially during the festive season. Enjoy experimenting until you find your signature combination!