Christmas Themed Biscotti Recipe for Festive Holiday Treats

The holiday season is a time for warmth, joy, and delicious treats that bring friends and family together. One classic cookie that perfectly captures the festive spirit is the Christmas-themed biscotti.

These crunchy, twice-baked Italian cookies are not only delightful to eat but also ideal for dipping in hot cocoa, coffee, or mulled wine. Infused with seasonal flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and dried cranberries, this biscotti recipe will fill your kitchen with the cozy aromas of Christmas and add a charming touch to your holiday dessert table.

Whether you are baking for a holiday party, looking for a homemade gift, or simply craving a sweet treat with a festive twist, these biscotti are sure to impress. The combination of crunchy texture and warming spices makes them irresistible, and the addition of white chocolate drizzle and red and green sprinkles adds a cheerful holiday flair.

Ready your apron and let’s dive into this delightful Christmas biscotti recipe that will become a seasonal favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Christmas-themed biscotti recipe offers a perfect balance of crunch and flavor that embodies the festive spirit. It’s easy to make, with straightforward steps suitable for both beginner and experienced bakers.

The biscotti are loaded with dried cranberries and chopped pistachios, which add a beautiful color contrast and a festive touch.

Unlike soft cookies, biscotti are baked twice to achieve their signature crisp texture, making them perfect for dunking. Plus, the warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg bring out the holiday cheer in every bite.

Drizzle with white chocolate and sprinkle with holiday-colored sugar for an extra-special presentation. These biscotti also keep well in an airtight container, so you can make them ahead and enjoy them throughout the season.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup chopped pistachios (unsalted)
• 4 ounces white chocolate, melted (for drizzling)
• Red and green sugar sprinkles (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cooling rack
• Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler (for melting chocolate)
• Sharp serrated knife

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the vanilla and almond extracts to the egg mixture and mix well.
5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. The dough will be sticky.
6. Gently fold in the dried cranberries and chopped pistachios until evenly distributed.
7. Divide the dough in half. On the prepared baking sheet, shape each half into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Flatten the tops slightly.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the logs are firm to the touch and lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes.
9. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
10. Using a sharp serrated knife, slice the logs diagonally into ½-inch thick slices. Place the slices cut-side down back on the baking sheet.
11. Bake for another 15-20 minutes, flipping the biscotti halfway through, until crisp and golden.
12. Remove from oven and transfer biscotti to a cooling rack. Allow to cool completely.
13. Once cooled, drizzle the melted white chocolate over the biscotti and immediately sprinkle with red and green sugar sprinkles for a festive touch.
14. Let the chocolate set before serving or storing in an airtight container.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, substitute the pistachios with more dried fruit or chocolate chips.

Try adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough for an extra burst of holiday flavor.

If you prefer a softer biscotti, reduce the second bake time by a few minutes.

Store biscotti in an airtight container to maintain crispness for up to two weeks.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Christmas biscotti are perfect when paired with a warm beverage. Try them alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee, a rich hot chocolate, or spiced apple cider for the ultimate cozy experience.

They also make a lovely addition to holiday gift baskets or as a sweet accompaniment at Christmas brunch.

For a festive platter, arrange biscotti with an assortment of cheeses, nuts, and fresh fruit to delight guests. These biscotti also pair wonderfully with mulled wine or a creamy eggnog cocktail for adult celebrations.

Conclusion

These Christmas-themed biscotti are a delightful way to add a homemade touch to your holiday festivities. With their crunchy texture, seasonal spices, and festive colors, they bring warmth and joy to any occasion.

The recipe is simple enough for bakers of all levels and flexible to accommodate various dietary preferences with easy substitutions.

By making these biscotti, you not only create a delicious treat but also a charming gift or centerpiece for your holiday table. Embrace the spirit of the season with this wonderful recipe, and enjoy sharing these beautiful cookies with loved ones.

Happy baking and merry Christmas!

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