Dessert

Easy Biscotti Recipe

Name: Easy Biscotti Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 300g plain flour; 100g caster sugar; 50g light brown soft sugar; 1½ tsp baking powder; Pinch of salt; 80g vegetable oil; 1 large egg; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 3-4 tbsp hot water; Milk or dark chocolate, melted, to decorate

ByBen Miller January 20, 2026January 20, 2026

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Introduction

These easy biscotti are crisp, lightly sweetened, and perfect for dunking in coffee or tea. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy homemade Italian-style cookies in no time. Optional chocolate decoration adds a touch of indulgence.

A silver cooling rack on a baking sheet holds about eighteen golden brown biscotti pieces, each slice showing a rough, crumbly texture and slightly curved top edges, arranged in a casual spread. To the left, a white plate with a golden brown biscotti piece broken with crumbs around it sits beside two white ceramic cups filled with coffee and latte, both showing creamy froth on top. The entire scene rests on a white marbled texture with a blue and white striped cloth peeking from underneath the baking sheet, creating a cozy and rustic feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

300g plain flour
100g caster sugar
50g light brown soft sugar
1½ tsp baking powder
80g vegetable oil
1 large egg
2 tsp vanilla extract
3-4 tbsp hot water
Milk or dark chocolate, melted, to decorate (optional)
A large pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/gas mark 4 and line a baking tray with baking parchment.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the plain flour, caster sugar, light brown sugar, baking powder, and a large pinch of salt.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, and 3 tablespoons of hot water.
Step 4: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring to form a dough. Knead gently until smooth. If the dough feels too dry to knead after a few minutes, add another tablespoon of water.
Step 5: Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a log about 25cm long and 8cm wide. Place the logs on the prepared baking tray.
Step 6: Bake the logs for 25–30 minutes until firm and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and cool on the tray for about 15 minutes.
Step 7: Using a sharp knife, slice the logs crosswise into 1–2cm thick pieces. Place the slices back onto the lined baking tray.
Step 8: Bake the slices for another 15–20 minutes at the same temperature, turning the tray halfway through for even toasting. Let the biscotti cool slightly on the tray, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 9: If desired, dip one end of each cooled biscotti into melted chocolate and set on parchment-lined baking trays until the chocolate hardens.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts to the dough before baking.
Substitute vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer taste.
Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or citrus zest to the dry ingredients for a seasonal twist.
If you prefer a softer biscotti, reduce the second baking time slightly.

Storage

Store biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. They keep well and maintain their crisp texture. Reheat briefly in a low oven if you prefer them warm before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate with a single broken biscotti cookie and crumbs on it, placed on a white marbled surface. Next to the plate are two ceramic cups, one smaller cup filled with espresso and the larger one filled with a foamy latte, both with a creamy color and smooth texture. To the right, a metal cooling rack holds around sixteen golden-brown biscotti slices arranged loosely in rows, resting on a metal sheet tray with a blue and white striped cloth underneath. The biscotti have a crunchy, crumbly texture with rough edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free flour to make these biscotti?

Yes, you can substitute plain flour with a gluten-free blend that is suitable for baking. The texture may vary slightly, so monitor the dough consistency and adjust water as needed.

How long do biscotti keep fresh?

Biscotti stay fresh in an airtight container for up to five days. Their dry, crisp nature also makes them suitable for longer storage if kept sealed and dry.