Biscotti has long been a favorite Italian treat known for its crisp texture and perfect dunking ability. We’ve taken this classic cookie to the next level by adding rich salted caramel, creating a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. This Salted Caramel Biscotti recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee or gifting them during the holidays, these biscotti offer a satisfying crunch with every bite. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that combines tradition with a modern twist.
Ingredients
To create our Salted Caramel Biscotti, we need to gather all the essential components. We have carefully divided the ingredients into three categories for clarity and ease of preparation: dry ingredients, wet ingredients, and the salted caramel topping ingredients.
Dry Ingredients
These ingredients provide the structure and texture that make biscotti delightfully crisp and perfect for dunking.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for subtle warmth)
- 1 cup chopped almonds (toasted for extra crunch)
Wet Ingredients
The wet ingredients bind the dry components and add richness to our biscotti dough.
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted and cooled
Salted Caramel Topping Ingredients
The luscious salted caramel glaze is what elevates this biscotti to a gourmet treat with a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ½ cup brown sugar | packed | Use light or dark brown sugar |
| ¼ cup unsalted butter | sliced | For smooth melting |
| ⅓ cup heavy cream | Warm before mixing | |
| ½ teaspoon sea salt | flaky or coarse | Adjust based on salt preference |
With these precise ingredients ready, we can move forward confidently to craft our irresistible Salted Caramel Biscotti.
Equipment Needed
To successfully craft our Salted Caramel Biscotti, having the right equipment is essential. Below is a detailed checklist of the tools we recommend using to achieve perfect texture and flavor.
Essential Baking Tools
- Mixing Bowls: Use medium and large bowls to mix dry and wet ingredients separately.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement is crucial. Use both dry and liquid measuring sets.
- Electric Mixer: A stand mixer or hand mixer helps blend ingredients smoothly and quickly.
- Cooling Rack: Promotes even cooling and crisping of biscotti after baking.
- Baking Sheet: A rimmed baking sheet accommodates the biscotti logs and prevents spills.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Ensures non-stick baking and easy cleanup.
- Sharp Knife or Serrated Knife: For slicing biscotti into uniform pieces after the first bake.
Equipment for Salted Caramel Topping
- Small Saucepan: Ideal for melting butter and sugar to create the salted caramel glaze.
- Wooden Spoon or Heat-Resistant Spatula: For stirring caramel constantly to prevent burning.
- Candy Thermometer (Optional but Recommended): To monitor caramel temperature for perfect consistency.
- Brush or Spoon: For evenly spreading the salted caramel topping over the biscotti.
Summary Table of Equipment
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combining ingredients |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Precise ingredient measurement |
| Electric Mixer | Smooth mixing |
| Cooling Rack | Even cooling and crisping |
| Baking Sheet | Baking biscotti logs |
| Parchment Paper/Silicone Mat | Non-stick surface |
| Sharp Knife | Slicing biscotti |
| Small Saucepan | Making salted caramel |
| Wooden Spoon/Spatula | Stirring caramel |
| Candy Thermometer (Optional) | Ensuring caramel is the right temp |
| Brush or Spoon | Spreading caramel glaze |
By gathering this equipment beforehand, we set ourselves up for a seamless baking process and a beautifully finished batch of our Salted Caramel Biscotti.
Prep Work
Before we start baking our Salted Caramel Biscotti, proper preparation is key. Setting up our dough and baking sheet correctly ensures a smooth baking process and perfect biscotti texture.
Preparing the Dough
We begin by combining the dry ingredients in a large bowl. This includes all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and chopped toasted almonds. Sifting the flour ensures there are no lumps and helps create a fine crumb in the dough.
In a separate bowl, we whisk the wet ingredients together: eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Gradually, we incorporate the wet mixture into the dry ingredients using a sturdy spoon or electric mixer set to low speed. We mix until the dough comes together into a thick, slightly sticky mass. Avoid overmixing to keep the biscotti tender inside while crisp outside.
Once the dough is combined, we shape it into a log approximately 12 inches long and 3 inches wide, keeping the surface slightly floured to prevent sticking. This log shape will make slicing easier after the first bake.
| Step | Ingredients/Tools | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Combine dry ingredients | Flour, sugar, baking powder etc. | Sift for smooth texture |
| Whisk wet ingredients | Eggs, vanilla, melted butter | Use room temp eggs for fluff |
| Mix wet and dry | Mixing bowl, spoon or mixer | Mix until dough forms |
| Shape dough | Floured surface | 12″ x 3″ log for uniform slices |
Preparing the Baking Sheet
We prepare our baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. It’s important to choose a sheet with low edges to allow heat to circulate properly, which helps achieve that signature biscotti crunch.
Next, we gently transfer the dough log to the baking sheet, positioning it centrally with enough room on both sides for expansion during the first bake. Lightly dust the top of the log with flour or press more chopped almonds onto the surface for extra texture and visual appeal.
By laying out the baking sheet carefully and shaping the dough properly, the first bake will set the stage for perfectly uniform Salted Caramel Biscotti slices ready for the final crisping and caramel topping.
Baking Instructions
Baking the Salted Caramel Biscotti requires precise steps to achieve that perfect crispness and rich flavor. Let’s guide you through shaping, baking, and cooling for optimal results.
Shaping the Biscotti Logs
- Transfer the mixed dough onto the prepared baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicone mat.
- Using floured hands or a spatula, shape the dough into a log approximately 12 inches long and 3 inches wide.
- Ensure the log has even thickness to promote uniform baking.
- Optionally, dust the top lightly with flour or press extra chopped toasted almonds for a textured crust.
- Leave at least 1 inch of space around the log to allow expansion during baking.
“An evenly shaped log is vital for consistent biscotti slices that bake evenly and maintain their signature crunch.“
First Bake: Baking the Logs
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the baking sheet with the biscotti log on the center rack.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the log is firm to the touch and lightly golden.
- The internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C) to confirm doneness.
| Stage | Temperature | Time | Key Indicator |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Bake | 350°F (175°C) | 25-30 minutes | Firm to touch, golden top |
- Remove the baking sheet carefully from the oven.
- Let the log cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before slicing to allow some setting.
Cooling the Logs
- After the initial rest, transfer the log to a wire cooling rack.
- Cool completely, about 20 to 30 minutes, ensuring the interior firms up.
- Complete cooling prevents crumbling when slicing and helps maintain the biscotti’s crisp texture.
- Once cooled, prepare to slice the log into ½-inch thick biscotti pieces using a sharp serrated knife at a slight angle for an attractive presentation.
“Patience during cooling ensures the perfect texture that embodies every bite of our salted caramel biscotti.“
Using these carefully timed and temperature-controlled baking steps will ensure our Salted Caramel Biscotti have that signature crisp outside and rich, nutty interior — perfect for dunking or savoring solo.
Slicing and Second Bake
To achieve the perfect crisp texture and unleash the rich flavor of our Salted Caramel Biscotti, the slicing and second bake stages are crucial. Let’s carefully handle these steps for the best results.
Slicing the Biscotti
Once the biscotti log has completely cooled on a wire rack, it’s time to slice. Using a sharp serrated knife ensures clean cuts without crumbling.
- Place the log on a stable cutting board.
- Hold the knife at a slight diagonal angle, about 45 degrees, to create elegant, elongated slices.
- Cut the log into approximately ½-inch thick slices. Consistent thickness helps all biscotti bake evenly in the second round.
- If the dough feels too soft to slice neatly, chill it in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing.
“Slicing while cool is essential to preserve the shape and prevent breaking.”
Second Bake: Crisping the Biscotti
After slicing, each piece needs to be crisped through the second bake, which develops the signature crunch and lightly toasted edges.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Arrange biscotti slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then flip each slice over.
- Continue baking for another 10 to 12 minutes until edges turn a golden brown and biscotti feel firm to the touch.
- Remove from oven and transfer immediately to a cooling rack to cool completely.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| First bake | 350°F (175°C) | 25-30 minutes | Bake log until firm and lightly golden |
| Cooling | Room temp. | 10 minutes | Cool log before slicing |
| Slicing | Room temp. | As needed | ½-inch thick diagonal slices |
| Second bake | 325°F (163°C) | 20-22 minutes | Flip halfway for even browning |
This second bake transforms our biscotti into the perfectly crunchy, dunk-worthy treat infused with the deep, buttery notes of salted caramel.
Preparing the Salted Caramel Drizzle
The salted caramel drizzle is what truly elevates our Salted Caramel Biscotti to gourmet status. Let’s craft a luscious caramel sauce that balances sweet and savory to perfection.
Making the Salted Caramel Sauce
To make the salted caramel sauce, we need to carefully melt and combine ingredients to achieve a smooth glossy texture with just the right amount of salt.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Step-by-step Instructions:
- Melt the butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter completely.
- Add brown sugar: Stir in the packed brown sugar until fully combined with the melted butter.
- Simmer the mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring constantly. Let it simmer for 3 minutes to develop depth and dissolve the sugar.
- Incorporate heavy cream: Remove the saucepan from heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously so the mixture stays smooth.
- Season with salt: Stir in the sea salt to introduce that perfect sweet and savory contrast.
- Cool slightly: Let the sauce cool for 5–7 minutes, thickening slightly while remaining pourable.
| Ingredient | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Light brown sugar | 1 cup | Packed for richness |
| Unsalted butter | 6 tbsp | Melted before mixing |
| Heavy cream | ½ cup | Added slowly off heat |
| Sea salt | 1 tsp | Balances the sweetness |
“A glossy smooth texture signals your caramel is ready for drizzling.”
Drizzling and Garnishing the Biscotti
Now that our salted caramel sauce is perfectly prepared, it’s time to add the finishing touch.
- Arrange cooled biscotti: Lay your twice-baked biscotti slices flat on a clean parchment-lined tray or cooling rack.
- Drizzle the caramel: Using a spoon or a small whisk, drizzle the warm caramel sauce back and forth over the biscotti in generous but controlled streaks.
- Add finishing salt: Sprinkle a small pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel for extra dimension and crunch.
- Let set: Allow the salted caramel drizzle to cool and set for 15 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate briefly to firm up the glaze.
The warm caramel aroma and subtle crunch of sea salt complement our Salted Caramel Biscotti perfectly, making each bite irresistible and ideal for pairing with your favorite coffee or tea.
Serving Suggestions
Our Salted Caramel Biscotti shine best when paired thoughtfully to highlight their crisp texture and rich flavor. Here are some delicious serving ideas to elevate your biscotti experience:
Classic Beverage Pairings
- Coffee: The traditional companion. Enjoy our biscotti dunked into a bold espresso or a creamy latte to soften the crunch and release the salted caramel notes.
- Tea: Opt for a robust black tea or a subtle chai. The spices complement the caramel and almond undertones beautifully.
- Hot Chocolate: For a decadent twist, dunk your biscotti into rich hot chocolate. The contrast between the warm chocolate and buttery caramel glaze creates a luxurious bite.
Dessert Presentation Ideas
- Ice Cream Sandwich: Place a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream between two biscotti halves for a crunchy, creamy delight.
- Cheese Board Addition: Pair biscotti with a mild cheese like mascarpone or ricotta. The milky creaminess balances the sweet-salty glaze.
- Fruit and Nut Platter: Serve alongside fresh figs, dried apricots, and a handful of toasted almonds to enhance the nutty flavors.
Flavor Enhancements
Try gently toasting your biscotti before serving to intensify the aroma and add a warm crunch. Drizzle additional homemade caramel or sprinkle crushed sea salt flakes for an elevated presentation.
Recommended Pairings at a Glance
| Serving Suggestion | Flavor Complement | Texture Contrast |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee (Espresso/Latte) | Bold, slightly bitter | Softens biscotti crunch |
| Black Tea / Chai | Earthy, spiced | Balances sweetness |
| Hot Chocolate | Rich, creamy | Enhances caramel richness |
| Vanilla/Caramel Ice Cream | Sweet, creamy | Cold and soft |
| Mascarpone/Ricotta Cheese | Mild, creamy | Creamy softness |
| Fresh/Dried Fruit & Nuts | Sweet, nutty flavors | Juicy chew and crunch |
Quotes to Inspire Enjoyment
“A perfect biscotti is not just a cookie — it’s an invitation to slow down and savor the small moments.”
“Dunking our salted caramel biscotti into a warm drink turns simple pleasure into a cozy ritual.”
By following these Serving Suggestions we transform our Salted Caramel Biscotti from a delightful snack into an unforgettable treat ideal for sharing or personal indulgence.
Storage Tips
To keep our Salted Caramel Biscotti fresh and crunchy, proper storage is essential. Follow these guidelines to maintain their signature crisp texture and rich flavor.
How to Store Salted Caramel Biscotti
- Allow the biscotti to cool completely after the caramel drizzle has set. Storing while warm traps moisture and softens the biscotti.
- Place the biscotti in an airtight container to prevent exposure to air which can cause staleness.
- Separate layers with parchment or wax paper to avoid sticking and preserve the caramel topping.
- Store the container at room temperature away from direct sunlight or heat sources for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing for Longer Storage
If we want to extend the shelf life of our biscotti, freezing is an excellent option:
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Wrap | Individually wrap slices in plastic wrap or foil |
| Container | Place wrapped biscotti in a freezer-safe airtight container |
| Freeze Duration | Freeze for up to 3 months |
| Thawing | Thaw at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before serving |
“Proper storage preserves the delightful crunch and caramel goodness, allowing us to savor our Salted Caramel Biscotti anytime.”
Tips for Serving After Storage
- To refresh crispness, toast biscotti slices briefly in a 325°F oven for 5 minutes before serving.
- Reheat the caramel drizzle slightly if it has hardened to restore its luscious texture.
- Pair the biscotti with warm beverages like coffee or tea to balance the caramel’s sweetness and enhance flavors.
By following these expert Storage Tips we ensure every bite of our Salted Caramel Biscotti is as irresistible as the first.
Conclusion
Making Salted Caramel Biscotti at home brings a delightful blend of rich flavors and satisfying crunch to your kitchen. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, we can create a treat that’s perfect for sharing or savoring alongside our favorite warm beverages.
This recipe not only elevates the classic biscotti but also offers a versatile base for experimenting with flavors and presentations. Whether enjoyed fresh or stored for later, these biscotti promise a gourmet experience every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Salted Caramel Biscotti different from regular biscotti?
Salted Caramel Biscotti includes a rich salted caramel topping that adds sweet and savory flavors, elevating the classic crisp and dunk-worthy texture to a gourmet treat.
What are the key ingredients for making Salted Caramel Biscotti?
The key ingredients include all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, toasted almonds, eggs, vanilla, butter, and for the caramel topping, brown sugar, unsalted butter, heavy cream, and sea salt.
Do I need special equipment to bake Salted Caramel Biscotti?
No special equipment is needed. Basic tools like mixing bowls, measuring cups, a baking sheet, parchment paper, an electric mixer, a cooling rack, and a sharp knife are sufficient.
How do I achieve the biscotti’s signature crisp texture?
Bake the dough log first, then slice it and bake the slices again at a lower temperature while flipping halfway through. This double baking creates the crisp texture.
Can I prepare the salted caramel sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the salted caramel sauce can be made ahead. Reheat gently before drizzling over the biscotti to restore its glossy, smooth texture.
How should I store Salted Caramel Biscotti to keep them fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature with parchment paper between layers. For longer storage, freeze wrapped biscotti for up to three months.
What beverages pair best with Salted Caramel Biscotti?
They pair well with coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. The biscotti’s crunch and caramel notes complement these warm beverages perfectly.
Can I add extra flavor or toppings to the biscotti?
Yes, you can toast them before serving, add more caramel drizzle, sprinkle extra sea salt, or even include them in desserts like ice cream sandwiches or cheese boards.
What should I do if the biscotti dough is too soft to slice?
Chill the biscotti log in the refrigerator for about 15–30 minutes. This firms up the dough, making it easier to slice evenly without crumbling.
How long do I need to bake the biscotti during the second bake?
Bake the slices at 325°F (163°C) for 20 to 22 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning and a crunchy finish.