Pistachio & Cranberry Biscotti – Quick & Easy 15-Minute Christmas Dessert

The holiday season is all about joy, family gatherings, and of course—irresistible treats that bring everyone together. Among the many Christmas desserts, one recipe stands out for its festive flair, crunchy texture, and burst of flavors: Pistachio & Cranberry Biscotti – Quick & Easy 15-Minute Christmas Dessert.

These Italian-inspired cookies are more than just a sweet bite. They’re the perfect balance of nutty pistachios, tart cranberries, and a golden-baked crunch that pairs wonderfully with coffee, hot chocolate, or a glass of holiday mulled wine. Even better? This recipe is so simple that you can have these delightful biscotti ready in just 15 minutes of prep.

If you’re searching for a Christmas dessert that’s festive, easy, and make-ahead friendly, look no further. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Pistachio & Cranberry Biscotti – Quick & Easy 15-Minute Christmas Dessert.

Why Choose Pistachio & Cranberry Biscotti for Christmas?

1. Festive Colors

The red cranberries and green pistachios create a holiday-ready color palette that looks as cheerful as your Christmas decorations.

2. Quick & Easy

Unlike complicated desserts that demand hours in the kitchen, this biscotti recipe requires only 15 minutes of hands-on time.

3. Long Shelf Life

Biscotti are twice-baked, making them crunchy and long-lasting—perfect for baking ahead before the holiday rush.

4. Perfect for Gifting

Pack these biscotti in decorative bags, jars, or tins, and you’ve got a thoughtful homemade Christmas gift.

Ingredients for Pistachio & Cranberry Biscotti – Quick & Easy 15-Minute Christmas Dessert

To make about 20-24 biscotti, you’ll need the following:

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

• 1 cup (200 g) sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional but highly recommended)

• 1 cup shelled pistachios (unsalted, lightly chopped)

• ¾ cup dried cranberries

• Zest of 1 orange (for a citrusy holiday note)

Optional for dipping:

• 1 cup white or dark chocolate, melted

• Festive sprinkles or edible glitter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures your biscotti will rise evenly and have the perfect crunch.

2: Add Wet Ingredients

Make a well in the center and add the eggs, vanilla, and almond extract. Mix until the dough starts to come together. It will be slightly sticky.

3: Fold in the Festive Add-Ins

Gently fold in the chopped pistachios, dried cranberries, and orange zest. These ingredients add not only flavor but also the signature Christmas colors.

4: Shape the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide it into two logs, each about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

5: First Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes until the logs are lightly golden. Remove and let cool for 10 minutes.

6: Slice & Second Bake

Using a serrated knife, cut the logs diagonally into ½-inch slices. Lay them flat on the baking sheet. Bake again for 10–12 minutes per side until crisp.

7: Optional Decoration

Dip one side of each biscotti into melted chocolate, then sprinkle with crushed pistachios, cranberries, or holiday sprinkles.

Tips for Perfect Pistachio & Cranberry Biscotti

1. Use a sharp serrated knife – This prevents the biscotti from crumbling when slicing.

2. Cool slightly before slicing – Cutting when too hot will cause them to break apart.

3. Play with flavors – Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for extra warmth.

4. Make it gluten-free – Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

5. Storage tip – Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Serving Ideas

• With Hot Drinks: Serve biscotti alongside Christmas morning coffee, hot cocoa, or spiced tea.

• Holiday Dessert Board: Arrange biscotti with truffles, fudge, and Christmas cookies for a festive platter.

• Gifting: Wrap biscotti in clear bags tied with red ribbons, or place them in a mason jar with a holiday tag.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1 biscotti)

• Calories: 120

• Fat: 5 g

• Carbohydrates: 16 g

• Sugar: 9 g

• Protein: 3 g

• Fiber: 1 g

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Holidays

During Christmas, time is precious. You don’t want to spend hours making complicated desserts when you could be enjoying the celebrations. Pistachio & Cranberry Biscotti – Quick & Easy 15-Minute Christmas Dessert is ideal because:

• The prep is fast.

• The ingredients are pantry-friendly.

• The result looks gourmet and festive.

• They’re sturdy enough to mail or gift without worrying about breaking.

Variations to Try

• Chocolate Chip Biscotti: Add mini chocolate chips instead of cranberries.

• White Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti: Skip the pistachios and dip fully in white chocolate.

• Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free chocolate.

• Sugar-Free Biscotti: Use monk fruit or erythritol as a substitute for sugar.

Pairing Suggestions

• Breakfast: A biscotti with espresso makes a perfect Italian-style morning treat.

• Dessert Wine: Pair with Vin Santo or a sweet Moscato.

• Christmas Party: Serve with a holiday dessert spread featuring gingerbread and yule log cake.

FAQ – Pistachio & Cranberry Biscotti – Quick & Easy 15-Minute Christmas Dessert

1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
It’s best to use dried cranberries because fresh ones add too much moisture.

2. Do I have to bake them twice?
Yes! The double bake gives biscotti their signature crunch.

3. Can I freeze biscotti?
Absolutely. Freeze in an airtight bag for up to 3 months.

4. How do I make them less hard?
Slice slightly thicker and reduce the second bake time for a softer bite.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a beautiful, festive, and simple Christmas dessert, this Pistachio & Cranberry Biscotti – Quick & Easy 15-Minute Christmas Dessert is the answer. It’s colorful, crunchy, and bursting with holiday cheer—ideal for gifting, entertaining, or just treating yourself by the fireplace.

This year, skip the store-bought cookies and surprise your loved ones with homemade biscotti that taste as good as they look. With just 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have a dessert that feels luxurious yet effortless.