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: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 100g unsalted butter; 200g granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 120g all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 100g pistachios, chopped; 100g almonds, chopped; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baked Food

I’ve always adored the combination of chocolate and nuts, and this recipe for Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares takes that love to the next level. Each square is a rich, decadent treat with a wonderful crunch from the pistachios and almonds. Perfect for when I'm entertaining guests or just craving something sweet, these squares are simple to make and provide a show-stopping dessert that impresses everyone. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the contrasting textures and delightful flavors that come together beautifully.

Created by

Philippa Grantley

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:33:36.882Z

When I first made these Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares, I was amazed at how easy they were to put together. The balance of sweet chocolate and nutty crunch creates a complex flavor profile that makes every bite irresistible. I recommend using high-quality chocolate to enhance the overall taste; it really does make a difference!

One tip I discovered is to toast the nuts beforehand; this enhances their flavor and gives an impressive aroma to your kitchen. Additionally, allowing the squares to cool completely before slicing ensures cleaner edges and a neater presentation.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy nuts
Decadent and satisfying, perfect for dessert lovers
Easily customizable by adding different nuts or spices

The Importance of Quality Chocolate

Choosing the right chocolate is crucial in this recipe, as it directly impacts the flavor of the final product. I recommend using a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for a rich, deep flavor. The chocolate should be smooth and glossy before mixing; avoid any with a grainy texture as it may affect the overall mouthfeel. If you’re unable to find dark chocolate, you can substitute it with semi-sweet, but note that this will alter the final sweetness of the squares.

When melting chocolate, you can select between the stovetop or microwave method. If using the stovetop, ensure the bowl doesn’t touch the water to prevent seizing. If in a microwave, melt it in bursts of 20-30 seconds, stirring in between until it's just melted and smooth - this prevents overcooking, which can lead to a burnt flavor.

Nutty Additions and Variations

The combination of pistachios and almonds is a winning duo, but don't hesitate to experiment with other nuts or even seeds. Walnuts or hazelnuts can add a unique twist, while pecans might introduce a richer flavor. Just keep the quantities the same; 200g of nuts total is perfect for maintaining balance in texture and flavor. For those with nut allergies, consider using seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy substitute.

Feel free to enhance the flavor profile by adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking. This will contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the chocolate and add an extra layer of complexity to each bite. Additionally, for a hint of warmth, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares

200g dark chocolate, chopped
100g unsalted butter
200g granulated sugar
4 large eggs
120g all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
100g pistachios, chopped
100g almonds, chopped
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results!

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan (9x9 inch) with parchment paper.

Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate and butter together over a pot of simmering water or in the microwave. Stir until smooth, then remove from heat.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted chocolate mixture and sugar until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Add Dry Ingredients

Fold in the flour, salt, and vanilla extract until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Incorporate Nuts

Gently fold in the chopped pistachios and almonds, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.

Bake

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

Cool and Slice

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, slice them into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares with a cup of coffee or tea!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, dust the squares with powdered sugar before serving or drizzle with extra melted chocolate for presentation.

Storage and Shelf Life

Once cooled and sliced, these Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them, where they will last for about two weeks. Be sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking, especially when storing longer.

For long-term storage, you can freeze the squares. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature without unwrapping, ensuring they stay moist.

Serving Suggestions

These rich squares pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, enhancing their decadent nature. For an elegant dessert presentation, plate them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce and a sprinkle of crushed nuts. A fresh berry garnish can also add a pop of color and balance the flavors.

If you're feeling creative, consider turning these squares into bars by adding a layer of caramel or a nutty praline on top before slicing. This could elevate the dessert for special occasions, making it even more of a crowd-pleaser. Have fun experimenting with flavors and presentations; after all, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to replace pistachios and almonds with your favorite nuts, such as walnuts or hazelnuts.

→ How should I store the squares?

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

→ Is it possible to make these gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these squares gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze the squares?

Yes! Wrap the squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.