Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16.0
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 100g unsalted butter; 150g granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 100g all-purpose flour; 50g pistachios, roughly chopped; 50g almonds, roughly chopped; Pinch of sea salt; 50g chopped pistachios; 50g chopped almonds; Drizzle of melted chocolate (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Craft

I love making Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares whenever I crave a decadent yet refined treat. These squares have the perfect balance of rich chocolate and crunchy nuts that create a party of flavors and textures in every bite. The process is surprisingly simple, and the end result is both stunning and delicious. I often serve them at gatherings, and they're always a hit! With these lovely squares, it's easy to indulge without feeling overwhelmed by sweetness.

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:04:21.273Z

When I first experimented with Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares, I knew I wanted to create a combination of flavors that would excite the palate. After several trials, I discovered that adding a pinch of sea salt really enhances the sweetness of the chocolate and brings out the earthy notes of the nuts. This little touch takes the squares to another level, and I've been making them regularly ever since.

One memorable experience was when I brought a batch to a friend's gathering. Everyone was raving about them, and I ended up giving out the recipe! Watching others enjoy something created from my own kitchen was truly rewarding and reaffirmed my love for baking. I always recommend letting the squares chill in the fridge for a couple of hours before cutting them, as it helps achieve a cleaner slice and a firmer texture.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy pistachios and almonds
A delightful texture that balances creaminess and crunch
Perfect for gift-giving or as a treat for special occasions

      

Understanding Ingredient Roles

The key to the indulgent flavor of Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares lies in the quality of the chocolate you use. Opt for a high-percentage dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) for a more intense chocolate flavor that balances the sweetness of sugar. The unsalted butter also contributes richness, so choose a fresh, high-fat butter for the best results. If you're aiming for a dairy-free version, a vegan butter substitute works well.

Eggs are essential in this recipe, as they provide structure and moisture. When incorporating the eggs, ensure they are at room temperature to mix smoothly into the batter. This will help emulsify the ingredients, resulting in a uniformly smooth texture. If you're looking to make this recipe vegan, consider using flax eggs or a suitable egg replacer, but remember that this may alter the final texture slightly.

Texture and Serving Suggestions

The brilliant contrast of creamy chocolate with crunchy nuts makes these squares a treat for the senses. Baking them until they are set but still moist in the center is crucial. Use a toothpick to check for doneness—if it comes out with just a few moist crumbs, you've nailed it. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so keep a close eye during the last few minutes of baking.

To elevate your serving presentation, consider layering flavors by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side. The warm squares can be enhanced with a slight drizzle of melted chocolate, which not only adds a glossy finish but also brings an additional depth of chocolate flavor. Don’t forget the extra chopped nuts on top as they provide a nice visual contrast and an added crunch!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These squares can be made ahead and stored, making them an ideal treat for parties or gatherings. Once cooled and cut, they should be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly and freeze; they can last in the freezer for up to three months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving to enjoy the best texture.

If you want to mix it up, consider adding different nuts or even a swirl of caramel or peanut butter to the batter before baking. This not only adds variety but also creates an exciting flavor twist. Remember to adjust baking time slightly if you add any additional ingredients with moisture to ensure the squares set correctly.

Ingredients

For the Squares

200g dark chocolate, chopped
100g unsalted butter
150g granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
100g all-purpose flour
50g pistachios, roughly chopped
50g almonds, roughly chopped
Pinch of sea salt

For the Topping

50g chopped pistachios
50g chopped almonds
Drizzle of melted chocolate (optional)

Instructions

Method

Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a square baking dish (8x8 inches) with parchment paper.

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, melt the butter and dark chocolate over a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat.

Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, combine melted chocolate and sugar. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla. Gently fold in flour and salt, then stir in the chopped nuts.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Cut

Let the squares cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, remove from the dish and cut into squares. Top with additional chopped nuts and a drizzle of melted chocolate if desired.

Enjoy Your Treat!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor twist, try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder into the batter for a mocha flavor. Also, ensure you allow the squares to cool completely before cutting for cleaner edges.

Tips for Perfect Squares

One common issue is not properly mixing the batter, leading to uneven textures. Be sure to fold in the flour gently to avoid overworking it, which can cause the squares to become tough. Also, if your batter seems overly thick, this can happen if you use cocoa powder instead of chocolate; adding a tablespoon or two of melted butter can fix this.

When preparing your baking dish, lining it with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also allows for easy removal of the squares. If you don’t have parchment paper, greasing the pan well with butter can work, but it’s best to ensure the corners are thoroughly greased to avoid sticking.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to experiment by replacing pistachios and almonds with other nuts such as walnuts or hazelnuts. Chopped dried fruits like cranberries or cherries can also be a delightful addition, introducing a tangy contrast to the rich chocolate. However, keep in mind that the total quantity of nuts and extras should remain similar to maintain texture.

For an exciting flavor upgrade, a hint of espresso powder added to the batter can enhance the chocolate flavor significantly. Just a teaspoon mixed in with the flour can deepen the overall taste without overpowering the sweetness. It's a secret tip I love to use when I want to impress!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate will work, but the flavor will be sweeter and less intense.

→ How should I store the chocolate squares?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can try using flaxseed meal or unsweetened applesauce as a substitute for eggs in this recipe.