Swirl Biscotti with Cocoa and Butter

Biscotti Girandola (Swirl Biscuits)

Category: Desserts
Servings: 16

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base Dough:
   Start by preparing the base dough for the swirl biscuits. Begin by placing the cold butter (cut into cubes) into the bowl of a stand mixer or food processor. Add the 250g of all-purpose flour to the bowl.

2. Mixing the Dough:
   Once the butter and flour are in the mixer, pulse until the mixture starts resembling a coarse crumb. Transfer this mixture into a large bowl. Add the powdered sugar to the bowl and quickly mix everything together using your hands. It’s crucial not to overwork the dough during this step—just enough to bring it together. The dough should feel soft but not sticky, and you should avoid heating it up too much.

3. Form the Two Doughs:
   Now that you have a smooth, uniform dough, divide it into two portions. In one of the portions, add the remaining 40g of flour, kneading it into the dough. In the other portion, add the cocoa powder and knead until the chocolatey dough is smooth and evenly colored.

4. Chill the Dough:
   Shape both portions of dough into flat discs. Wrap each disc separately in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator. Let them chill for about 30 minutes to firm up.

5. Roll the Doughs Together:
   After chilling, take the doughs out of the fridge. Roll out the white dough into a rectangular shape on a floured surface. Brush the top of the white dough lightly with water, then carefully place the cocoa dough on top.

6. Form the Swirl:
   Gently press the two doughs together using a rolling pin. Then, roll the doughs up together like a jelly roll or roulade. The water on the surface of the white dough will help the layers stick together without slipping.

7. Chill Again:
   Wrap the rolled dough log tightly in plastic wrap and place it back into the refrigerator for another 30 minutes. This will help the dough firm up and hold its shape when you slice it.

8. Slice and Bake:
   Once the dough is firm, remove it from the fridge and slice it into discs that are approximately 7mm thick. Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure to space them out evenly.

9. Final Touches:
   Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the biscuits to cool completely on the baking sheet before enjoying them.

10. Serve:
    Once cooled, the swirl biscuits are ready to be enjoyed. These cookies are perfect for an afternoon treat, coffee break, or special occasion!

These Biscotti Girandola offer a delightful mix of buttery, soft dough with a rich cocoa swirl, creating a visually striking and delicious treat. The contrast of the light and dark doughs makes each bite a little moment of indulgence. Whether served with a warm cup of tea or as part of a holiday spread, these biscuits are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the simple elegance and full flavors of these charming cookies, and don’t forget to share the recipe with your loved ones.

Nutritional Information (per biscuit):

These Biscotti Girandola are a perfect balance of texture and flavor, with a soft, slightly sweet base and the deep richness of cocoa. While not overly sweet, they offer just the right amount of indulgence with every bite, making them a great addition to any dessert table.