Pistachio Biscotti Recipe

The crisp, aromatic Pistachio Biscotti is the ultimate Italian treat to accompany your coffee or tea. Each slice is studded with rich, buttery pistachios and enlivened by zesty orange, creating a crunchy, elegant cookie that tastes like pure sunshine. Whether you’re serving these at a holiday gathering or treating yourself during a quiet afternoon, Pistachio Biscotti always manages to impress with its vibrant flavor and irresistible texture.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how easily pantry staples can transform into such a sophisticated cookie. Every ingredient in this Pistachio Biscotti recipe plays a unique part, from flavor to structure, ensuring each bite is perfectly balanced.

• All-purpose flour: Forms the robust base for the cookies and guarantees that signature crunchy snap.
• Granulated sugar: Adds the right touch of sweetness that lets the nutty pistachios shine.
• Baking powder: Gives the biscotti a gentle lift so they’re slightly airy but still firm for dipping.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and heighten every flavor.
• Large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness to the dough.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a cozy warmth and depth of flavor.
• Almond extract: Infuses extra nuttiness, partnering perfectly with the pistachios.
• Shelled, unsalted pistachios: The star of the show—crunchy, buttery, and beautifully green for visual appeal.
• Zest of 1 orange: Brightens each bite with an unexpected, fresh zing.

How to Make Pistachio Biscotti

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper so the Pistachio Biscotti won’t stick and you’ll have easy clean-up later. Having everything ready at the start makes the whole process a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a roomy bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that leavening and seasoning are distributed evenly throughout your dough—no pockets of baking powder here!

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

Crack those eggs into a separate bowl and beat until delightfully frothy. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts, allowing their aromas to mix with the eggs for a depth of flavor you’ll love in each Pistachio Biscotti.

Step 4: Make the Dough

Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently. As the dough comes together, fold in the pistachios and fresh orange zest. Don’t worry if it feels sticky—this is completely normal and helps give the biscotti their signature chewy-crunchy texture.

Step 5: Shape and Bake the Logs

Divide the dough in half and, with slightly damp hands, shape each portion into a log approximately 12 inches long and 2 inches wide right on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until they’re lightly golden and hold their shape well.

Step 6: Slice the Biscotti

Once the logs are baked, let them cool off for about 10 minutes (they’re easier to slice when warm but not hot!). Grab a serrated knife and cut each log diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices—you should see those pretty green pistachios popping through every piece.

Step 7: Second Bake for Crunch

Arrange the slices cut side down on the baking sheet. Pop them back in the oven for 10-12 minutes per side. This double bake is what gives Pistachio Biscotti their trademark, dunkable crunch. Let them cool completely on a wire rack, then dive in!

How to Serve Pistachio Biscotti

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra chopped pistachios on top looks stunning, or you can drizzle melted white chocolate over one end of each slice for a luxurious finish. Even a dusting of powdered sugar can elevate your Pistachio Biscotti from homemade to bakery-worthy.

Side Dishes

Biscotti beg to be dunked! Serve with freshly brewed coffee, espresso, or a big mug of fragrant tea. For an extra treat, pair with bowls of vanilla gelato or fresh fruit, letting those citrus and nutty notes mingle beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Pistachio Biscotti in pretty bags tied up with ribbon for gifts. At a party, fan them around a platter next to dessert wines, or serve upright in mugs for a truly Instagram-worthy display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cooled Pistachio Biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature, where they stay fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks. Just be sure they’re completely cool before storing to avoid any unwanted softness.

Freezing

Biscotti are ideal for freezing! Simply pack them in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to three months, ready for anytime you crave a cozy treat. Thaw at room temperature when you need them.

Reheating

If you like your Pistachio Biscotti extra crisp after storing, just pop them on a baking sheet in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. This refreshes their crunch as if they just came out of the oven.

FAQs

How thick should I slice the biscotti?

For the best texture and appearance, aim for slices about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures each Pistachio Biscotti holds its shape and gets perfectly crunchy during the second bake.

Can I use roasted or salted pistachios?

Unsalted pistachios let you control the flavor best, but if all you have are roasted or lightly salted, just reduce the added salt in the recipe. Roasted nuts also bring a deeper flavor, which some people absolutely love!

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap in your favorite 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but you’ll still end up with delicious Pistachio Biscotti to enjoy and share.

Can I add chocolate?

Definitely—a drizzle of dark or white chocolate over the finished biscotti is always popular. You can also add mini chocolate chips to the dough for an even more decadent twist.

Why did my biscotti crumble when I sliced them?

If your logs are too hot, they can crumble easily. Let them cool for about 10 minutes before cutting, and always use a sharp serrated knife with a gentle sawing motion for neat slices.

Final Thoughts

Pistachio Biscotti is comfort food on a whole new level—whether you’re a baking newbie or a seasoned pro, you’ll love the satisfying texture, the sunny citrus notes, and how easy these are to whip up. Give yourself (and your loved ones) the gift of homemade biscotti—you’ll be reaching for another in no time!