As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like the cozy embrace of fall flavors. Enter my Pumpkin Biscotti—a delightful harmony of sweet, spiced, and crunchy textures that's perfect for enhancing those brisk evenings. I stumbled upon this recipe while digging through my pantry, where a lonely can of pumpkin puree and my favorite autumn spices awaited their moment to shine.

These twice-baked delights deliver a satisfying crunch, making them an ideal companion for your morning coffee or an afternoon tea break. With hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of ginger, each bite brings the warmth of the season right to your home. Whether you're treating yourself or impressing guests, these Pumpkin Biscotti promise to elevate your snack game, offering a taste of fall in every dunk. Get ready to fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and create a new favorite treat this season!

Why Love These Pumpkin Biscotti?

Simplicity: This recipe is easy to follow, perfect for bakers of all levels, ensuring your autumn treat is a breeze to make.

Irresistible Flavor: Infused with autumn spices, these biscotti envelop your taste buds in cozy, seasonal warmth.

Twice-Baked Perfection: The twice-baking method delivers a uniquely crunchy texture, making them just right for dipping!

Versatile Treat: Enjoy them with coffee, tea, or even hot cider for a delightful pairing that’s sure to please.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake a batch and store them for up to a week, ready to satisfy your pumpkin cravings on a whim!

Pumpkin Biscotti Ingredients

• Get ready to create the ultimate fall treat with these essential ingredients!

For the Biscotti

All Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for a gluten-free twist, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; adjust to your taste or use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor; can be swapped with brown sugar.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a light texture; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and richness; for a bolder flavor, feel free to use pumpkin pie spice.
Ground Ginger – Provides a fragrant and spicy note; fresh ginger can elevate your biscotti's flavor.
Nutmeg – Contributes a warm, nutty flavor; freshly grated nutmeg will enhance the flavor intensity.
Ground Cloves – Adds aromatic spice; use sparingly as it can be quite strong.
Salt – Balances sweetness and amplifies overall flavors.
Egg – Binds the ingredients and adds richness; a flax egg works well for a vegan alternative.
Canned Pumpkin Puree – Imparts moisture and natural sweetness; opt for pure pumpkin, avoiding pie filling.
Unsalted Butter – Enhances flavor and richness; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile; pure extract is best for optimal taste.

Embrace the season with these Pumpkin Biscotti ingredients and watch as your kitchen transforms into a cozy autumn haven!

How to Make Pumpkin Biscotti

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, baking powder, and spices until well combined. The aroma will get you in the fall spirit!
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the egg, canned pumpkin puree, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until combined. This mixture will bring moisture and flavor depth to your biscotti.
Combine Wet and Dry: Gently mix the wet ingredients into the dry mixture to form a soft and slightly sticky dough. To enhance the flavors, chill the mixture in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
Shape the Logs: Divide the dough in half, and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring some space between them for expansion, and bake for 25 minutes until firm and lightly golden.
Cool and Prepare for Second Bake: After baking, remove the logs from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling period is essential before progressing to the second baking. Reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).
Slice and Bake Again: Once the logs are cool, slice them into 20 pieces using a sharp serrated knife. Arrange the slices cut side up on the baking sheet and return them to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes. Flip them halfway through to achieve even crispiness.
Cool Completely: Once golden brown and crispy, transfer the biscotti to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain their delightful crunch!

Optional: Drizzle cooled biscotti with white chocolate for an extra festive touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Biscotti?

Warm up your autumn gatherings with a delightful array of pairings that will complement your delicious biscotti.

Rich Espresso: Perfect for dipping, the bold flavor contrast enhances the sweet spices in the biscotti, making each bite memorable.
Creamy Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a cozy pairing; the rich chocolate flavor pairs beautifully with the spices, creating a comforting treat.
Spiced Chai Tea: Aromatic and fragrant, this tea melds harmoniously with the warm flavors of pumpkin spices, creating a soothing experience.
Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this adds a luxuriously sweet touch to your biscotti, making it perfect for an elegant dessert.
Maple Pecan Ice Cream: The creamy richness and nutty flavor offer a delightful contrast to the crunchy biscotti, elevating your snack moment.
Fall Fruit Compote: A fresh mix of apples, pears, or cranberries brings a fruity brightness that balances rich biscotti flavors while adding a textural contrast.
Cheese Board: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese; their creamy textures beautifully offset the crispness of biscotti for a sophisticated touch.
Glass of Sweet Wine: A dessert wine, like Moscato, complements the sweetness of biscotti while adding a touch of elegance to your fall gatherings.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Biscotti

Airtight Container: Store your cooled Pumpkin Biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their delightful crunch.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze biscotti for up to three months. Layer the slices between parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Thawing: To enjoy, thaw frozen biscotti at room temperature for about an hour. Reheat briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for that fresh-baked crunch.

Refresh as Needed: If biscotti lose their crispness, a quick re-bake can restore their delightful texture, allowing you to savor that seasonal flavor once again.

Pumpkin Biscotti Variations

Feel free to explore these exciting variations to elevate your Pumpkin Biscotti experience!

Nutty Twist: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. The earthy flavors will complement the spices beautifully.
Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the cooled biscotti for a touch of sweetness. It’s an elegant way to dress them up for special occasions.
Espresso Infusion: Mix in a teaspoon of espresso powder with the dry ingredients for a mocha twist. The rich coffee flavor will deepen the autumn aroma.
Cranberry Surprise: Add dried cranberries or cherries for a pop of tartness and color. This balance of sweet and tangy will make each bite exciting!
Maple Glaze: Instead of traditional sugar, swirl in pure maple syrup for a distinct flavor. Top with a maple glaze after baking to enhance that fall spirit!
Citrus Zest: Combine a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest with the wet ingredients. This zest will brighten the biscotti and add a refreshing contrast to the spices.
Pumpkin Spice Swap: For a traditional twist, replace the spices with 1-2 tablespoons of pumpkin pie spice mix. It’s a simple shortcut to achieve that classic flavor.
Spicy Kick: If you crave some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry mix for a surprising warmth. The spice will tantalize your taste buds in a delightful way!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Biscotti are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts who crave homemade snacks without the hassle! You can mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance, keeping the flavors fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking to enhance the flavors. When you’re ready to bake, simply shape the dough into logs and follow the baking instructions as outlined. To maintain their delightful crunch, ensure the biscotti cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. With these make-ahead tips, you'll enjoy the gift of time without sacrificing the wonderful taste of these Pumpkin Biscotti!

Expert Tips for Making Pumpkin Biscotti

Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and spices are fresh to achieve the best rise and flavor in your biscotti.
Proper Chilling: Don't skip the chilling step; it helps the dough firm up, making it easier to shape and slice later.
Slicing Technique: Use a sharp, serrated knife to slice the logs, which prevents crumbling and allows for clean, even pieces.
Second Bake Monitoring: Keep a close eye on the biscotti during the second bake; adjust the time for softer or crunchier textures based on your preference.
Storage Tips: Store cooled biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature; this maintains their crunchy texture for longer!
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add chopped nuts or chocolate drizzles for a personal twist on your pumpkin biscotti!

Pumpkin Biscotti Recipe FAQs

What kind of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your Pumpkin Biscotti, use 100% pure canned pumpkin puree. Make sure you avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices which can alter the taste of your biscotti.

How should I store my biscotti after baking?
You can store your cooled Pumpkin Biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This helps keep their delightful crunch intact! If they start to soften, a quick re-bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes can refresh their crispiness.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Biscotti?
Yes, you certainly can! To freeze your biscotti, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours to firm up. After that, transfer the biscotti to an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to three months.

What should I do if my biscotti are too soft after the second bake?
Very common! If your biscotti come out softer than you’d like after the second bake, try returning them to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes. Make sure to flip them halfway through to get an evenly crunchy texture. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!

Are these biscotti suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can easily make these Pumpkin Biscotti gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, if you're vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use coconut oil instead of butter. Always check your ingredients to cater to specific allergies as well.

How long do these biscotti last in the freezer?
Pumpkin Biscotti can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour. If you want that fresh-baked crunch again, warm them briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a delightful treat!