Italian Food Language
Biscotto: The Singular Form of Biscotti
A biscotto is one Italian twice-baked cookie. More than one are called biscotti.
Most English speakers know the plural word biscotti, but the singular form is heard much less often. Order one cookie in Italy and you are asking for a biscotto. Put several on the table and you have biscotti.
The word also points to the baking method itself: a crisp cookie traditionally baked once as a loaf, sliced, and baked again.
What Does Biscotto Mean?
In Italian, biscotto is singular and biscotti is plural. The word is associated with the idea of being twice baked, which describes the traditional method used to create biscotti’s dry, crisp texture.
Biscotto vs. Biscotti
Biscotto
Singular. One cookie is a biscotto.
Biscotti
Plural. Two or more cookies are biscotti.
In American English, biscotti is often treated almost like the name of the cookie itself. That is why someone might say “a biscotti” even though the traditional Italian singular is biscotto.
You may also hear the informal English word “biscottis.” If you are curious about that variation, read our guide to why people say “biscottis.”
Why Is a Biscotto Baked Twice?
Traditional biscotti begin as a loaf or log of dough. That loaf is baked once until it holds its shape, allowed to cool slightly, and then sliced into individual cookies.
Those slices return to the oven for a second bake. The second bake removes additional moisture and creates the crisp texture that makes biscotti different from soft or chewy cookies.
That dry, crisp structure is also why a biscotto holds up so well when dipped into coffee, espresso, cappuccino, tea, or the traditional Tuscan pairing of Vin Santo.
Is a Biscotto the Same as Cantucci?
Cantucci are a traditional Tuscan style of biscotti, most famously made with whole almonds. The words are related, but they are not exact synonyms in every Italian context.
If you want to make the classic almond style at home, see our Italian Almond Biscotti Recipe.
What Biscotto Meant in My Family
I did not grow up thinking about whether someone was using the singular or plural correctly. I grew up thinking about the smell of toasted almonds and biscotti coming out of my grandmother’s oven.
My Sicilian grandmother baked almond biscotti from a family recipe passed down through generations. She measured by feel, knew when the dough was right by looking at it, and understood that patience mattered as much as the ingredients.
That tradition eventually became the foundation of The Biscotti Company. We still bake in small batches today, while putting our own touch on the flavors we make.
How We Make Biscotti Today
Our biscotti are baked in small batches on Long Island using a Sicilian family recipe with a history stretching back generations.
The second bake creates the crisp, clean snap people expect from biscotti.
We bake in small batches rather than relying on a large industrial production line.
Our flavors use ingredients such as roasted nuts, Belgian chocolate, fruit, citrus, espresso, and spices.
Many flavors receive a light touch of sea salt to bring the other flavors forward.
Want to Learn More About Biscotti?
This page explains the singular word biscotto. For the complete story of biscotti, including history, flavors, baking methods, pairings, storage, and how to choose them, continue to our main Biscotti Guide.
Looking for Something to Eat Instead?
If your search for “biscotto” brought you here because you are hungry, skip the Italian grammar lesson and explore the biscotti we bake in our Long Island bakery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does biscotto mean?
Biscotto is the singular Italian word used for one cookie. Biscotti is the plural form.
Is biscotti singular or plural?
Biscotti is plural. The singular Italian form is biscotto.
Why are biscotti baked twice?
Biscotti are first baked as a loaf, sliced, and baked again. The second bake removes additional moisture and creates the crisp texture associated with biscotti.
What is the difference between biscotto and cantucci?
Biscotto is the singular form of biscotti. Cantucci are a traditional Tuscan style of biscotti, usually associated with whole almonds and a crisp twice-baked texture.
How long do The Biscotti Company’s biscotti stay fresh?
Unopened bags have a six-month shelf life from the production date printed on the package. Once opened, keep the biscotti in an airtight container and enjoy within about a week for the best texture and flavor.
Where can I buy biscotti online?
You can browse the complete collection from The Biscotti Company online shop.