Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup pistachios, chopped; 3/4 cup almonds, chopped; 2 tablespoons dark chocolate, melted; Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Food

I absolutely love making Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares because they blend rich flavors and provide a delightful texture. Every bite encompasses the sweetness of chocolate, the crunch of almonds, and the distinctive taste of pistachios. It’s a treat that can brighten any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a festive celebration. I enjoy getting creative with the presentation and sometimes dusting the squares with a little powdered sugar for that extra touch. It’s always a hit with family and friends!

Created by

Yasmin Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:49:35.908Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares, I was amazed by how the combination of nuts enhanced the richness of the chocolate. It brought together different textures, making every square a small bite of joy. I’ve also learned that toasting the almonds and pistachios beforehand intensifies their flavors—a simple tip that elevates the final product!

Sharing these squares with friends has become a cherished tradition. I enjoy watching their faces light up with the first taste, and I've found that drizzling a bit of dark chocolate on top not only adds to the presentation but also deepens the chocolate flavor. These little gems are sure to impress!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delicious fusion of chocolate, pistachio, and almond flavors
Unique texture that combines creaminess and crunch
Elegant presentation ideal for gifting or celebrations

      

Understanding Ingredients

The use of dark chocolate is essential in this recipe, not just for its rich flavor but also for its unique melting point, which creates a luscious, fudgy texture. Opt for high-quality chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for the best results. If you're sensitive to the bitterness of dark chocolate, you can substitute half of it with milk chocolate, but be aware this will affect the final flavor profile.

Pistachios and almonds bring complexity to the squares. Not only do they add crunch, but their natural oils contribute to the fudgy texture. When chopping the nuts, aim for pieces that are uniform in size, as this ensures even distribution in the batter. If you're looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be used instead, providing a similar crunch without compromising the integrity of the dessert.

Baking Tips

When baking, be sure to watch for visual cues. You're aiming for slightly puffed squares with golden edges, which typically takes about 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). To prevent overbaking, check for doneness a few minutes early; a toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating that the center is still fudgy.

Cooling is another critical step. Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before cutting them, as this helps to firm up the texture. If you're pressed for time, you can expedite cooling by placing the pan in the fridge for about 30 minutes, which also makes the chocolate topping set quickly. Just be mindful not to leave it too long, or the squares may become difficult to slice evenly.

Ingredients

For the Squares

1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup pistachios, chopped
3/4 cup almonds, chopped

For the Topping

2 tablespoons dark chocolate, melted
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the dark chocolate and unsalted butter together, stirring until combined. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Mix in Sugar and Eggs

Stir in the granulated sugar until smooth. Then, add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this to the chocolate mixture until just combined.

Fold in Nuts

Gently fold in the chopped pistachios and almonds until evenly distributed.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Top

Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, drizzle with melted dark chocolate and dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Slice and Serve

Cut into squares, serve, and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Enjoy your delicious treat, possibly with a cup of tea or coffee!

Pro Tips

Toast the nuts before adding them to enhance their flavor. Store the squares in an airtight container for up to a week.

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, dusting the squares with powdered sugar just before serving adds a refined touch. You can also enhance the visual appeal by drizzling additional melted dark chocolate over the squares in a decorative pattern. Pairing these squares with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the rich flavors beautifully.

If you're considering serving these at a gathering, cut the squares into smaller bite-sized pieces. This allows guests to enjoy multiple treats and makes for a visually appealing platter. To elevate the flavor, serve with a side of fresh berries, which add a bright, tart contrast to the sweetness of the squares.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares in advance, making them ideal for upcoming gatherings. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to store them longer, consider freezing the squares. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

When ready to serve from frozen, allow the squares to thaw in the fridge overnight. For a freshly baked taste, you can lightly reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This softens the chocolate and renews the delightful fudgy texture, making them feel like they’re just out of the oven.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store the squares?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for a longer shelf life.

→ Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, simply replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour!

→ What can I serve this with?

These pairs perfectly with coffee or tea, and you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.