Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped; 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Golden Kitchen

When I first paired rich chocolate with crunchy pistachios, I was amazed by how well they complemented each other. These Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares have become a favorite in my household. Not only do they offer a delightful combination of flavors, but the texture is simply irresistible. The slight saltiness of the pistachios enhances the sweetness of the brownies, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re indulging yourself or impressing guests, these brownies are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:33:34.303Z

One day, experimenting in the kitchen, I decided to add pistachios to my usual brownie recipe, and the result was nothing short of spectacular. The nuttiness of the pistachios created a beautiful contrast to the deep chocolate flavor, and it altered my perception of brownies forever. I recommend chopping the pistachios roughly for added texture that enhances the crunch with each bite.

After a few trials, I found the perfect balance of rich chocolate and chewy brownie texture that pairs wonderfully with the crunchy nuts. Baking them just long enough to maintain a gooey center is key. Trust me; this is the secret to elevating your brownie experience!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Decadent chocolate richness complemented by toasted pistachios
Fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for gatherings or as an everyday treat

The Richness of Chocolate

The foundation of these Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares is the layered richness of the chocolate. Using a combination of unsweetened cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips creates a deeply indulgent flavor that is both complex and satisfying. The cocoa powder gives the brownies a rich color and earthy taste, while the melted chocolate chips contribute to the brownies’ fudgy texture. Make sure the chocolate chips are high quality; this will enhance the overall flavor and result in brownies that melt in your mouth.

When melting the butter, I recommend doing it slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave in short bursts. This prevents it from separating or burning. Once you incorporate the melted butter with the sugars, you should aim for a glossy consistency before adding the eggs. This mixture creates a wonderful batter that not only binds the ingredients together but also helps achieve that treasured fudgy texture.

Pistachio Crunch: The Perfect Contrast

Pistachios not only provide a delightful crunch but also bring a subtle saltiness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the brownies. Ensure that your pistachios are roughly chopped, as this will allow for even distribution throughout the brownie batter. If you can't find shelled pistachios, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds, but be aware that each nut will impart a different flavor profile—choose according to your preference.

To enhance the flavor of the pistachios further, consider toasting them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until they are fragrant and golden. This single step enhances their nuttiness and brings out a deeper complexity that contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate. Just be careful not to over-toast them, as they can quickly go from golden to burnt.

Ingredients

Make sure to preheat your oven to ensure even baking.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
1 cup dark chocolate chips

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper.

Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix well until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, stirring until fully incorporated.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and salt into the wet mixture. Fold gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Stir in the chocolate chips and chopped pistachios.

Bake the Brownies

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of espresso powder to the batter. It enhances the chocolate taste beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Simply wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes—this will help reinstate their fudgy texture.

If you plan to make these brownies ahead of time for a special occasion, consider baking them a day in advance. Once cooled, wrap them securely and leave them at room temperature overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Just make sure to firm them up in the fridge for 30 minutes before cutting; this will give you cleaner edges.

Serving Suggestions

These brownie squares are wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. For an elegant presentation, dust them lightly with powdered sugar or serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The contrast of the hot brownies with cold ice cream creates an indulgent dessert that is hard to resist. Drizzle some chocolate sauce or caramel on top for an extra touch of sweetness.

If you’re looking to elevate the flavor further, pairing these brownies with fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, can add a refreshing element. The tartness of the berries complements the rich chocolate and crunchy pistachios beautifully. Another great idea for a gathering is to cut the brownies into smaller bite-sized squares for easy sharing, offering guests a decadent morsel without overwhelming them.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use unsweetened chocolate instead of cocoa powder?

Yes, you can substitute unsweetened chocolate by melting it and using it in place of the cocoa powder and butter, but adjust the sugar as needed.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I add other nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in walnuts, almonds, or pecans for added texture and flavor.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as a substitute in equal amounts for each egg, though it may change the texture slightly.