If you’re a coffee lover, these Easy Cappuccino Biscottis are perfect for you! They have a crunchy texture and a rich coffee flavor that pairs wonderfully with your favorite brew.
I love serving these with my morning coffee; they make the perfect dipping treat! Plus, they’re easy to make, so I can enjoy fresh biscotti whenever I want!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Granulated Sugar: This helps to sweeten the biscotti. You can use brown sugar for a slightly different flavor and color. I prefer a mix of both for a touch of depth!
Unsalted Butter: It gives moisture and richness. If you’re in a pinch, coconut oil or margarine can be used, but butter is my favorite for flavor.
Instant Espresso Powder: This is key for that cappuccino flavor. If you don’t have it, finely ground coffee works too; just make sure it’s not too coarse. I always opt for a dark roast for a stronger taste!
Nuts or Chocolate Chips: While optional, they add texture and taste. I often use chocolate chips for a sweeter treat. You can leave them out or replace them with dried fruit for a different twist.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch in My Biscotti?
Achieving the ideal crunch is all about baking twice! The first bake creates the chewy shape, and the second bake dries them out nicely.
- After your first bake, let the logs cool slightly, but not completely—this helps with slicing.
- Use a serrated knife for clean slices, which also aids in even baking during the second round.
- Don’t rush the second bake. The longer they bake, the crunchier they will get, so keep an eye out!
I also recommend letting them cool on a wire rack. This prevents steam from making them soft.
Easy Cappuccino Biscotti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp instant espresso powder (or finely ground coffee)
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds or hazelnuts) or chocolate chips
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This biscotti recipe will take about 15-20 minutes for preparation and around 40-50 minutes for baking time, giving you a total of about 1 hour to enjoy these delightful treats with your coffee. Plus, they cool off quickly, so you won’t have to wait long before indulging!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid sticking. This is a perfect time to gather all your ingredients!
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Eggs and Flavor:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then pour in the vanilla extract and sprinkle in the instant espresso powder, stirring until everything is well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that everything is well mixed and ready to be combined with the wet ingredients.
5. Form the Dough:
Gradually add the dry mix into the wet bowl, stirring until a stiff dough forms. If you’re using nuts or chocolate chips, gently fold them into the dough at this stage for added flavor and texture.
6. Shape the Logs:
Divide the dough into two equal parts. On the prepared baking sheet, shape each portion into a log, about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Make sure to leave at least 3 inches between the logs so they have room to expand while baking.
7. First Bake:
Bake the logs in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until they are golden and firm to the touch. This step gives them their initial shape and texture.
8. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, remove the logs from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes. Then use a serrated knife to slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices for that classic biscotti shape.
9. Second Bake for Crispiness:
Lay the sliced biscotti cut side down on the baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake for another 10-15 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until they are crisp and golden.
10. Cool and Dust:
Allow the biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack. If you like, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top before serving to add a sweet touch.
Enjoy your delicious cappuccino-flavored biscotti dipped in your favorite coffee—perfect for a cozy treat!
FAQ for Easy Cappuccino Biscotti
Can I Use Fresh Coffee Instead of Instant Espresso Powder?
While instant espresso powder is ideal for this recipe due to its concentrated flavor, you can substitute finely ground fresh coffee. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be a bit milder, so you might want to adjust the amount to your taste.
Can I Make These Biscotti Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a direct substitute for regular flour. Just check the blend contains xanthan gum to help maintain the chewy texture of the biscotti.
How Should I Store Leftover Biscotti?
Store your cooled biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer freshness, you can freeze them in a sealed bag for up to three months—just thaw before serving!
Can I Add Flavors or Mix-Ins?
Yes! Feel free to get creative! You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in dried fruits, coconut, or different types of nuts. Just keep the balance in mind so no single flavor overpowers the cappuccino essence!
