There’s something magical about the aroma of Chocolate Peppermint Biscotti wafting through your kitchen. Imagine the rich scent of chocolate mingling with a hint of refreshing peppermint, creating an irresistible invitation to indulge. Each crunchy bite is like a winter hug, perfect for cozy evenings or sharing with loved ones during the holidays.
Reflecting on my childhood, I remember my grandma making these delightful treats every Christmas. The laughter around the table and the joy of dunking them into steaming cups of cocoa created memories that last a lifetime. Whether it’s for a festive gathering or simply a treat for yourself, these biscotti promise an unforgettable flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Chocolate Peppermint Biscotti are surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers
- Their rich chocolate flavor pairs perfectly with the refreshing burst of peppermint
- Visually stunning with their glossy chocolate coating, they make fantastic gifts or party favors
- Enjoy them alone or paired with coffee for a delightful afternoon break
Every holiday season, my friends rave about how they look forward to my Chocolate Peppermint Biscotti.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: This is your base; opt for unbleached flour for a more natural flavor.
- Cocoa Powder: Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder to ensure a rich chocolate taste.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar gives sweetness; you can adjust based on your preference.
- Baking Powder: This helps the biscotti rise slightly, giving them that perfect crunch.
- Eggs: Use large eggs for binding and moisture; they help create that chewy texture.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Choose semi-sweet chips for balance; they melt beautifully in the dough.
- Peppermint Extract: A little goes a long way; select pure extract for the best flavor.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all flavors, making each bite delightful.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Biscotti
Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until fully combined. This ensures an even distribution of flavors.
Combine Wet Ingredients and Sugar: In another bowl, beat eggs with sugar until fluffy and pale. Add peppermint extract and mix well to incorporate those holiday vibes.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients Gradually: Slowly add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients and stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing. The dough should be thick but pliable.
Add Chocolate Chips Carefully: Fold in dark chocolate chips using a spatula, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough without breaking them apart.
Form Dough into Log Shape and Bake: Transfer the dough onto your prepared baking sheet and shape it into a log roughly 12 inches long. Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes until firm but slightly soft in the center.
Cool and Slice Biscotti: Allow it to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cutting board. Slice into 1-inch pieces using a serrated knife.
Bake Again Until Crisp: Place sliced biscotti back on the baking sheet cut-side down and return them to the oven for another 10-15 minutes until crisped up nicely.
Your kitchen will be filled with aromas so delightful that even your cat might consider joining you in taste-testing!
Enjoying these Chocolate Peppermint Biscotti is as simple as pouring yourself some coffee or tea—dunk away! They store well in an airtight container too, meaning you can keep reliving those cozy moments well after they’re made. So grab those ingredients, gather some friends or family around, and get ready to bake up some holiday cheer!
You Must Know
- The secret to outstanding Chocolate Peppermint Biscotti lies in the double-baking process, creating that signature crunch
- Pay attention to the cooling time; it enhances flavors and texture
- These biscotti are perfect for dipping in coffee or hot chocolate during chilly evenings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your dry ingredients first. Then, combine them with wet ingredients and fold in chocolate chips before shaping your dough into logs for the first bake.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch out peppermint extract for orange or almond for a different flavor twist. Adding chopped nuts or dried fruit can also enhance the texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store your baked biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For extra crunch, reheat briefly in the oven before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use high-quality chocolate to elevate your biscotti’s flavor profile
- Make sure not to overbake during the second round; keep a close eye on them
- These biscotti pair wonderfully with tea, making them a delightful afternoon snack
I once brought these Chocolate Peppermint Biscotti to a holiday gathering, and they vanished faster than my New Year’s resolutions! Family members still ask for this recipe every year.
FAQ
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate adds a rich flavor that complements the peppermint beautifully.
How long do these biscotti stay fresh?
They remain fresh for about two weeks when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze Chocolate Peppermint Biscotti?
Yes! They freeze well; just ensure they are fully cooled and wrapped tightly before freezing.
Chocolate Peppermint Biscotti
Indulge in the enchanting flavors of Chocolate Peppermint Biscotti, perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings. The rich chocolate paired with refreshing peppermint creates a delightful treat that’s easy to make, even for beginner bakers. Whether enjoyed solo or dunked in hot cocoa, these biscotti evoke cherished holiday memories and are sure to impress your loved ones.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tsp pure peppermint extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat eggs with sugar until fluffy; stir in peppermint extract.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just mixed. Fold in chocolate chips.
- Shape dough into a log on the baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes.
- Cool for 10 minutes, slice into pieces, then bake again for 10-15 minutes until crisp.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 biscotti (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Experiment with different extracts like almond or orange for unique flavors. Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for enhanced texture. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
