Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate (chopped); 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup pistachios (roughly chopped); 1/2 cup almonds (whole and toasted)

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Inspiration

When I stumbled upon the idea of Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares, I knew I had to try it for myself. The combination of rich chocolate, salty pistachios, and crunchy almonds had my mouth watering. After some experimentation, I found the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each bite is a delight, leaving you craving more. This recipe is not only delicious but also surprisingly simple to whip up, making it ideal for both everyday indulgence and special occasions.

Created by

Thea Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:49:35.565Z

I always love a challenge in the kitchen, and creating these Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares was no exception. The process taught me the importance of toasting nuts—doing so enhances their flavor and adds a lovely crunch. I discovered that using high-quality chocolate made a significant difference, enriching the taste and giving a luxurious finish.

While experimenting, I realized the combination of textures is key. I added crushed pistachios and whole almonds, which complemented the soft chocolate base perfectly. Each bite became a delightful mix of creaminess and crunch that I knew I had to share.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with salty pistachios
Nutty crunch from almonds enhances every bite
Simple preparation makes it a favorite for gatherings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving the rich flavor in Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares lies in the quality of the dark chocolate used. Opt for chocolate that's at least 60% cacao for a deep, luxurious flavor that pairs beautifully with the nuttiness of the pistachios and almonds. If you're in a pinch, semi-sweet chocolate can also work, although it will make the squares slightly sweeter. Remember, the chocolate and butter should be melted together gently; overheating can lead to grainy chocolate.

Butter plays a crucial role in keeping the squares moist and adding a rich flavor. Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the squares. If you're looking to reduce fat, you could experiment with using applesauce as a substitute in a 1:1 ratio; however, be mindful that the texture may vary slightly, making the squares a bit less fudgy.

Baking Tips for Perfection

When spreading the batter into the lined baking dish, use an offset spatula for an even layer, as this helps create uniform squares. You'll know it's time to take the squares out of the oven when the edges begin to pull away slightly from the sides of the pan, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, rather than liquid batter. If overbaked, they may become dry—aim for slight gooeyness for the perfect texture.

Cooling the squares in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before cutting them helps maintain their shape and ensures they're easier to slice. If you find that your squares are too crumbly when cutting, chilling them for an additional hour in the refrigerator can help them firm up for cleaner cuts.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth baking process.

Ingredients

1 cup dark chocolate (chopped)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup pistachios (roughly chopped)
1/2 cup almonds (whole and toasted)

Prepare the ingredients in advance to make the cooking process seamless.

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps for a perfect batch of squares.

Melt the Chocolate

In a medium saucepan, melt the dark chocolate and unsalted butter over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Mix in the Sugar and Eggs

Whisk in the granulated sugar until well combined. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

Combine with Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Nuts

Fold in the chopped pistachios and whole almonds. Spread the batter evenly into a lined baking dish.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the squares cool in the pan before cutting them into 16 pieces. Enjoy!

Enjoy these delightful squares with friends and family or keep them all for yourself!

Pro Tips

Try experimenting with different nuts or even adding dried fruit for a unique twist on this classic treat.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares are versatile when it comes to serving. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert, or serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For a vibrant twist, dust with powdered sugar or pair with fresh berries to complement the rich chocolate and crunchy nuts.

For special occasions, you can elevate the presentation by drizzling melted chocolate on top or sprinkling additional crushed pistachios as a finishing touch. These squares are also great for packaging as gifts; simply cut them neatly and place them in decorative boxes or bags to share the joy with friends and family.

Storage and Variations

To store your Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for a week, or frozen for up to three months. When freezing, wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.

If you're looking to experiment with flavors, consider adding a hint of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor, or swap out the nuts for walnuts or hazelnuts for a different twist. You could also try mixing in dried fruit like cranberries or cherries for a touch of sweetness and added texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but be aware that it will alter the flavor and sweetness of the squares.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How do I store the squares?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped.