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 chips; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup chopped pistachios; 1/2 cup chopped almonds; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Soft Collection

I absolutely adore these Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares. Each bite is a delightful blend of rich chocolate, nutty pistachios, and crunchy almonds that create a unique texture and flavor profile. Not only are they indulgent, but they are also surprisingly simple to make. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a personal treat, these squares never fail to impress. I encourage you to try this recipe because you’ll soon find it a staple in your dessert repertoire, combining elegance with a homemade touch.

Created by

Briony Ashcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:06:36.131Z

When I first made these Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares, I was inspired by the combination of flavors I love. The pairing of chocolate with both pistachios and almonds brings a wonderful crunch and depth of flavor that is hard to resist. I experimented a lot with the ratios, and I found that just the right amount of nuts adds texture without overpowering the chocolate.

One tip I learned along the way is to roast the nuts lightly before incorporating them into the mixture. This really enhances their flavor and makes the overall dessert so much richer. Every layer of this treat contributes to a delightful tasting experience that I absolutely love to share with friends and family.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty pistachios and almonds
Crunchy texture that complements creamy chocolate
Perfect for dessert platters or as a special treat

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of dark chocolate and cocoa powder in this recipe creates a rich, indulgent flavor without being overly sweet. Using high-quality dark chocolate, ideally with 60-70% cocoa content, enhances the overall taste and texture of the squares. Additionally, ensure that your cocoa powder is unsweetened, as this balances the sweetness from the granulated sugar, allowing the chocolate and nuts to shine.

The addition of both pistachios and almonds not only contributes delightful textures but also provides healthy fats and protein. Chopping them coarsely helps to maintain their crunch while distributing the flavors evenly throughout the batter. If you're looking for a nut-free version, consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a substitute, which will provide a similar crunch.

Baking Tips for Perfection

Pay close attention to the baking time; the squares should be taken out of the oven when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Overbaking may lead to a dry texture, while underbaking can result in gooey squares that don’t hold their shape. Letting them cool for at least 15 minutes allows them to firm up, making it easier to cut into neat squares.

When smoothing the batter into the baking dish, use an offset spatula for an even surface. If you find the batter is too thick, adding a splash of milk can help create a smoother consistency. For added flavor complexity, you might consider sprinkling sea salt on top before baking, which enhances the sweet chocolate and nutty flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather your supplies before starting!

For the Squares

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chopped pistachios
1/2 cup chopped almonds
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt

These ingredients will create your delicious Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your squares.

Preheat the Oven

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

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate and butter together over simmering water. Stir until smooth, then remove from heat.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and melted chocolate mixture until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just blended.

Add Nuts

Fold in the chopped pistachios and almonds, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the dish for about 15 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares!

Pro Tips

For a more intense flavor, try using dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content. Additionally, you can drizzle some melted chocolate over the squares before serving for an extra touch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These Chocolate Pistachio Almond Squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerating them will extend their freshness for up to a week. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you're considering making these squares ahead of time, they freeze exceptionally well. Cut the cooled squares into portions, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to three months, making it easy to pull out a quick treat whenever you need one.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, consider dusting the cooled squares with powdered sugar or drizzling melted chocolate over the top just before serving. Pairing these squares with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures, perfect for impressing guests at gatherings.

You can also serve these squares alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of espresso powder to the batter to deepen the chocolate flavor, which complements the nuts splendidly and makes for a luxurious treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I replace the nuts in this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of nuts such as walnuts or pecans if you prefer.

→ How should I store the squares?

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

→ Can I make these gluten-free?

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

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Yes, you can freeze them. Wrap each square individually and store in an airtight container for up to three months.