If there’s one thing that instantly brings festive cheer to our homes during the holiday season, it’s the smell of freshly baked treats wafting through the air. And when it comes to Italian Christmas baking, there’s no treat quite like the beloved Biscotti Al Cioccolato – Chocolate Cookies. These delightful cookies are a staple on many holiday dessert tables thanks to their crunchy texture and rich chocolate flavor. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let’s create some delicious memories with this classic Italian recipe!
**Biscotti Al Cioccolato – Chocolate Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
8. Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log about 12 inches long on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them for spreading.
9. Bake the cookie logs in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until set and slightly firm to the touch.
10. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookie logs to cool for 10-15 minutes.
11. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the logs into 1-inch diagonal slices.
12. Place the sliced cookies cut-side down back onto the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cookies are crisp and dry.
13. Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
These delectable Biscotti Al Cioccolato – Chocolate Cookies are perfect for serving alongside a cup of hot cocoa on those chilly winter evenings, or for sharing with loved ones during festive gatherings. The combination of rich cocoa and sweet chocolate chips makes these cookies a true holiday delight that will have everyone coming back for more. So whip up a batch of these Italian Christmas treats and bring a touch of sweetness to your holiday season!
