Hot Chocolate Biscotti

Why Make This Recipe

Hot Chocolate Biscotti is a delightful twist on a classic Italian treat that is perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings. These crunchy cookies are infused with rich cocoa flavor and are studded with dark chocolate and marshmallows, which evoke memories of warm, comforting hot chocolate on a chilly day. Making Hot Chocolate Biscotti is rewarding and brings an extra layer of indulgence to your dessert table. They are perfect for dipping into your favorite hot beverage or enjoying on their own. Plus, they store well, making them an excellent choice for gifts or snacks throughout the week.

How to Make Hot Chocolate Biscotti

Making Hot Chocolate Biscotti is a straightforward process that anyone can follow. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can create these delicious cookies at home. Here’s how you can make them:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Unsalted Butter
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar
• 2 large Eggs
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
• 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1 cup Dark Chocolate (chopped or chips)
• 1 cup Mini Dehydrated Marshmallows

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, add the unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat them together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes.

3. Add eggs and vanilla: Once the butter and sugar are creamy, beat in the eggs one at a time. Make sure to incorporate each egg well before adding the next. After the eggs, mix in the vanilla extract.

4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and kosher salt. Sifting helps to aerate the ingredients and ensures there are no lumps.

5. Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, mixing until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough biscotti.

6. Fold in chocolate and marshmallows: Gently fold in the chopped dark chocolate and mini dehydrated marshmallows into the dough. This adds extra richness and the fun marshmallow surprise in every bite!

7. Shape the dough: Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log that is about 12 inches long and 2-3 inches wide. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space in between them as they will spread a little while baking.

8. First bake: Bake the logs in the oven for 25-30 minutes. They should feel firm but slightly soft in the center when you take them out.

9. Cooling and slicing: Allow the logs to cool on the baking sheet for about 20 minutes. Once they are cool enough to handle, use a sharp knife to slice the logs diagonally into ¾-inch thick pieces.

10. Second bake: Place the sliced biscotti back onto the baking sheet and return them to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes. This second baking will make them crisp and dry, perfect for dipping.

11. Cool completely: Once baked, allow the biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack. They will continue to harden as they cool.

How to Serve Hot Chocolate Biscotti

Hot Chocolate Biscotti can be served in various delightful ways. They are perfect for pairing with your favorite hot drink—whether it’s classic hot chocolate, coffee, or tea. Serving them alongside a warm beverage allows you to dip the biscotti, enhancing the taste and creating a cozy experience. You can also serve them on a dessert platter as a perfect accompaniment to holiday treats or as part of a dessert table.

For an extra indulgent treat, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the biscotti or dusting them with powdered sugar before serving. These simple additions can elevate the presentation and taste, making them feel extra special.

How to Store Hot Chocolate Biscotti

To store Hot Chocolate Biscotti, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, you can place them in an airtight container. They will last for about 2 weeks at room temperature, making them great for batch baking and enjoying over time. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each biscotti individually in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the oven for a few minutes to warm them up.

Tips to Make Hot Chocolate Biscotti

1. Use high-quality chocolate: The flavor of the biscotti relies heavily on the chocolate you choose, so selecting a good-quality dark chocolate can enhance the overall taste significantly.

2. Chill your dough if too sticky: If your dough feels too sticky to handle, you can refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to shape into logs.

3. Adjust the chocolate and marshmallows: Feel free to adjust the amount of dark chocolate and marshmallows based on your preference. If you love chocolate, add more!

4. Slice evenly: Use a sharp knife and slice the logs evenly to ensure all pieces bake uniformly. This helps achieve the perfect crispiness.

5. Don’t rush the second bake: The second bake is key to achieving the crunchy texture of biscotti. Make sure to keep them in the oven long enough for them to dry out properly.

Variation

If you’d like to switch things up, consider incorporating different flavors or ingredients into your Hot Chocolate Biscotti. For instance, you could use:

• Peppermint: Add peppermint extract to the dough or sprinkle crushed candy canes on top before the final bake for a refreshing twist, especially during the holiday season.
• Nutty Addition: Fold in some chopped nuts like hazelnuts or almonds for added texture and flavor.
• Spices: Include a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor and add warmth to the biscotti.

FAQs

1. Can I make Hot Chocolate Biscotti gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Make sure you also check if your cocoa powder and chocolate are gluten-free.

2. Can Hot Chocolate Biscotti be frozen?

Yes, Hot Chocolate Biscotti freeze very well. Wrap them individually and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

3. How can I make my biscotti softer?

If you prefer softer biscotti, reduce the baking time for the second bake slightly. Bake them until they are just firm but not completely dried out.

4. What’s the best way to melt chocolate for drizzling?

The best way to melt chocolate for drizzling is to use a double boiler method or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between. This prevents the chocolate from burning.

5. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate or even white chocolate, depending on your preference. Just be aware that it will change the overall flavor of the biscotti.

Hot Chocolate Biscotti is a delightful treat that combines the indulgence of hot chocolate with the satisfying crunch of biscotti. This recipe is perfect for sharing with friends and family or for enjoying with a warm cup of your favorite beverage. Follow the steps outlined above, and you’ll have a delectable batch of biscotti that will impress everyone. Enjoy the process, and happy baking!

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