What Is Biscotti? A Complete Guide to the Crunchy Italian Cookie

Whether you have seen it behind a café counter or dipped one into your morning espresso, biscotti is one of those treats that feels both familiar and a little mysterious. Is it a cookie? A cracker? A dessert? In this guide, we are diving into the crunchy world of biscotti – where it comes from, how it is made, and why this twice-baked Italian classic has become a favorite for coffee lovers and snackers alike.

What Is Biscotti?

Biscotti – that golden, crisp, coffee-dunking cookie – is one of Italy’s most iconic treats. But what exactly is biscotti, and what makes it so irresistible?

In this post, we break down what biscotti is, where it comes from, how it is made, and why it continues to win over dessert lovers across the globe. If you are ready to taste the real thing, you can buy handmade biscotti online and have it shipped fresh to your door.

What Does “Biscotti” Mean?

The word biscotti comes from the Latin bis coctus, which means twice baked. That is the key to biscotti’s signature crispness. First, the dough is shaped into a log and baked. Then it is sliced and baked again until golden and crunchy.

While biscotti is the plural form of biscotto in Italian, the term has evolved to mean a specific style of cookie in North America – one that is crisp, long, and perfect for pairing with coffee or tea.

A Brief History of Biscotti

Biscotti originated in Tuscany and were valued for their long shelf life. Originally made with almonds, they were ideal for travelers and soldiers. Over time, regional variations emerged, and biscotti evolved into a sweet treat enjoyed throughout Italy and beyond. Today, you will find every flavor imaginable – from classic almond to bold chocolate, bright citrus, and even gluten-free versions like our Chai Pistachio Biscotti.

Buy Biscotti Online – A Modern Way to Enjoy an Italian Classic

There is nothing quite like the taste of real, handmade biscotti. At The Biscotti Company, you can buy biscotti online and have your favorite flavors shipped nationwide within days of baking. Each batch is crafted in small batches on Long Island using the same traditions my Sicilian grandmother passed down – from careful mixing to double-baking for that crisp snap.

Whether you crave the rich depth of Double Chocolate Biscotti, the bright balance of Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti, or the timeless simplicity of Classic Almond Biscotti, you will taste authentic Italian craft in every bite.

What Is Biscotti Made Of?

Classic biscotti typically include:

• Flour
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Baking powder
• Nuts (commonly almonds)

At The Biscotti Company, we elevate the recipe with small-batch techniques, natural ingredients, and bold flavor combinations like:

• Chocolate Almond Biscotti – roasted almonds with Belgian chocolate chunks
• Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti – real cranberries with whole pistachios
• Double Chocolate Biscotti – rich cocoa with Belgian chocolate chunks

Every batch finishes with a light sprinkle of sea salt to enhance flavor. That little lift at the end keeps people coming back.

Why Is Biscotti So Hard?

Because it is baked twice. The second bake removes moisture and gives biscotti its signature crunch and long shelf life. Good biscotti should be crisp from edge to edge yet easy to bite. Perfect for dunking in espresso or pairing with dessert wine.

How Do You Eat Biscotti?

• Dipped in espresso, cappuccino, or latte
• Paired with black or herbal tea
• Served with gelato or ice cream
• Enjoyed solo as a crunchy snack

Ready to Try Real Biscotti?

We bake every batch by hand using traditional methods and clean ingredients. If you have only tried grocery store versions, you have not had the real thing. Explore our Best-Selling Biscotti Collection and see why fans call us the biscotti bakery near you.

Prefer gluten-free. Pre-order our Chocolate Anise Biscottini for a bite-size twist on tradition.

Dairy-free. Small-batch. Always delicious.