There’s something truly captivating about the moment you slice into a freshly baked Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti. The satisfying crunch that echoes through the kitchen is just the beginning of a delightful experience that awaits. Imagine the rich aroma of coffee mingling with the warm, nutty scent of hazelnuts, intertwining to create a sensory masterpiece that makes every coffee break feel special.
Whether you’re winding down after a long day or sharing a cozy afternoon with friends, these biscotti offer the perfect balance of crispness and tenderness, making them an ideal companion for your favorite beverages. Best of all, they transform ordinary moments into something memorable, providing a sophisticated twist to traditional cookies. Ready to elevate your snacking game? Let’s bake a batch of these delightful Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti!
Why choose Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti?
Elevating everyday moments: This biscotti is more than just a snack; it transforms your coffee breaks into a luxurious experience.
Nutty Delight: The combination of hazelnuts and rich coffee flavor creates a unique taste that tantalizes your palate.
Perfect for Dipping: Its crunchy texture makes it ideal for dunking in your favorite beverages, enhancing every bite.
Easy to Make: Simple steps mean you don’t have to be a professional baker—just mix, shape, and bake!
Versatile Enjoyment: Pair it with espresso or a glass of dessert wine for special occasions or keep it at hand for daily indulgence.
Store and Share: These biscotti stay fresh for weeks, making them perfect for gifting or enjoying at home anytime!
Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti Ingredients
For the Biscotti
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Espresso powder – Adds a robust coffee flavor; instant coffee can be used as a substitute.
- Sugar – Sweetens the biscotti and helps them achieve the perfect crunch; coconut sugar can be a substitute for a lower glycemic index.
- Butter – Aids in tenderness and flavor; can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Eggs – Binds the ingredients together; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
- Hazelnuts – Offers a nutty crunch; consider almonds or walnuts as substitutes if preferred.
For Storage
- Airtight container – Keeps your Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti fresh for up to two weeks.
These ingredients come together to create a delightful snack perfect for any occasion, whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones!
How to Make Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti
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Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your biscotti bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown color.
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Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, espresso powder, and sugar until well combined. This mixture is the foundation for your delightful biscotti.
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Cream butter: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy. Gradually add the eggs, mixing until fully incorporated and fluffy. This step enhances the tenderness of your biscotti.
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Combine mixtures: Slowly stir the dry ingredient mixture into the wet batter, combining them gently until there are no dry spots. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Fold in hazelnuts: Gently add the chopped hazelnuts into the dough. This nutty crunch is what makes each bite of your biscotti a delightful surprise!
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Shape dough: Form the dough into a log shape on a lined baking sheet, about 12 inches long. Ensure it’s evenly shaped for even baking.
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First bake: Bake the log in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until it’s golden brown and firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly on the baking sheet.
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Slice: Once cooled for about 10 minutes, carefully slice the log diagonally into approximately ¾-inch thick pieces. Arrange the slices back on the baking sheet, cut side up.
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Second bake: Bake the slices again for 10-15 minutes, watching closely until they are crisp and golden. This second bake achieves that wonderful crunch!
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Cool: Allow your Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This ensures the texture reaches its deliciously crisp potential.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of nut butter for an extra indulgent treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti
- Quality Count: Use high-quality espresso powder: It significantly enhances the flavor, making your Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti irresistible.
- Butter Temperature: Ensure butter is at room temperature: This helps it cream easily, resulting in a tender texture for your biscotti.
- Watch the Browning: Keep an eye during the second bake: Over-baking can lead to overly hard biscotti; aim for golden, not dark brown.
- Cooling Time: Let biscotti cool completely: This step is crucial for achieving that satisfying crunch and perfect texture.
- Line Your Pan: Use parchment paper for easy removal: It keeps your biscotti intact and your baking sheet clean, making cleanup a breeze.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance to save time during your busy week. Additionally, the dough can be shaped into logs and chilled in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking, which helps enhance the flavors. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice and complete the second bake as directed. This prep method ensures your biscotti are just as delicious, providing you with a scrumptiously crunchy treat that elevates any coffee break with minimal effort.
How to Store and Freeze Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti
- Room Temperature: Store your biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. This keeps them fresh and crunchy, ready for your coffee breaks.
- Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep them in the fridge for additional freshness, but it’s best to consume them within a week to maintain the perfect texture.
- Freezer: Freeze biscotti for longer storage; place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
- Reheating: To revive their crispness, simply pop the biscotti in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes before serving.
What to Serve with Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti?
Elevate your coffee breaks and afternoon treats with delightful pairings that offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
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Espresso: The rich, bold flavor of a freshly brewed espresso enhances the coffee notes in the biscotti, making each bite a decadent experience. The slight bitterness of espresso perfectly balances the sweet nutty crunch, creating a harmonious duo.
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Hot Chocolate: A warm, creamy cup of hot chocolate complements the biscotti’s crunch with a luxurious sweetness. The smooth chocolate melts beautifully in your mouth alongside the delightful texture of the biscotti.
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Dessert Wine: A glass of sweet dessert wine, like Vin Santo, brings out the nutty flavors while offering a sweet contrast. Sip slowly while savoring each bite, making for an elegant pairing during any gathering.
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Milk: The classic pairing of milk with biscotti cannot be overlooked! Whether you choose whole, almond, or oat milk, it adds a creamy texture that softens the crunch perfectly.
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Cheese Platter: Adding a cheese platter with brie and nuts provides a savory counterbalance to the sweet biscotti, creating a well-rounded grazing experience. The creaminess of the cheese contrasts beautifully with the nutty crunch of the biscotti.
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Fruit: Fresh fruit, like pears or figs, adds a refreshing sweetness that complements the nutty flavors while cleansing the palate, producing a delightful taste adventure for your senses.
Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti Variations
Make your Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti uniquely yours with these fun and flavorful twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend for a delightful, crunchy option.
- Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil to keep it rich and buttery, without the dairy!
- Nutty Alternatives: Try walnuts or pecans in place of hazelnuts for a different nutty essence; each brings a unique flavor.
- Sweet Additions: Fold in dark chocolate chips or orange zest for an unexpected burst of sweetness that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Spiced Delight: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy flavor that enchants each bite.
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate dried cranberries or apricots for a chewy surprise mixed with the crunch of biscotti.
- Zesty Twist: Replace espresso powder with matcha powder for a vibrant green twist and a hint of earthy taste.
- Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough for a spicy kick that pairs brilliantly with coffee.
By exploring these variations, you’ll discover endless possibilities that will elevate your coffee break moments!
Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti Recipe FAQs
What types of hazelnuts should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Using roasted hazelnuts enhances the nutty flavor of your biscotti. Look for whole, lightly salted hazelnuts for optimal crunch and taste. If you prefer a different nut experience, almonds or walnuts can also work wonderfully!
How do I know when my biscotti dough is mixed properly?
Very! Your dough should be well combined with no dry flour visible. Once you’ve mixed in the dry ingredients, it should be a thick but pliable texture, easy to shape but not too sticky. If it looks crumbly, you may need to mix a bit more!
Can I freeze Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze your biscotti, let them cool completely first. Then, arrange the cooled biscotti in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep for up to 3 months! For the best texture, thaw them at room temperature before enjoying or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore crunch.
How should I store Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti for maximum freshness?
For top-notch freshness, store your biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. They stay delicious and crunchy this way! If you notice any dark spots or soft texture, they may be past their prime, so enjoy them while they’re still perfect.
Are there any dietary considerations for the ingredients in Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti?
Certainly! If you’re gluten-sensitive, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. For a dairy-free option, coconut oil can replace the butter. Additionally, if you’re vegan, using flax eggs instead of regular eggs works beautifully. Always check for nut allergies with guests, as this recipe includes hazelnuts, which are a common allergen.
What would I serve with these biscotti for an elegant touch?
I often recommend pairing your Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti with a hot cup of espresso or a glass of dessert wine, like Vin Santo. This not only complements the flavors of the biscotti but also elevates your coffee break or dessert experience into something truly sophisticated!
Irresistible Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti for Perfect Dipping
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, espresso powder, and sugar until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy. Gradually add the eggs, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Slowly stir the dry ingredient mixture into the wet batter until there are no dry spots.
- Gently fold in the chopped hazelnuts.
- Form the dough into a log shape on a lined baking sheet, about 12 inches long.
- Bake the log for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Remove and allow it to cool slightly.
- Slice the log diagonally into ¾-inch thick pieces. Arrange the slices back on the baking sheet, cut side up.
- Bake the slices for another 10-15 minutes until they are crisp and golden.
- Allow your Coffee-Hazelnut Biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.