Chocolate-Cherry Biscotti

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup dried cherries

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a baking sheet.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
4. Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the butter mixture. Stir in the cherries. Divide the dough into two equal pieces.
5. On a lightly floured surface, form each piece of dough into a log about 12 inches long. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25 minutes in the preheated oven. Remove from the oven, and let cool for 10 minutes.
7. Reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Cut each log into slices about 1/2 inch thick, and place the slices back onto the baking sheet. Bake for an additional 15 minutes. Cool before serving.

Interesting Facts

• Biscotti is an Italian word meaning "twice-baked."
• This recipe is a great way to use up leftover dried fruit.
• This biscotti is vegan-friendly if you use vegan butter.