Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 9 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped pistachios

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Collection

I love indulging in rich desserts, and these Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares have become one of my favorites. The combination of velvety chocolate and crunchy pistachios creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist. Whenever I whip up a batch, the kitchen is filled with an irresistible aroma. These brownies are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth or impressing guests at a gathering. Plus, they’re simple to make, ensuring a delicious outcome every time. You won’t regret trying this decadent treat!

Created by

Serena Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:02:34.918Z

When making these brownies, I discovered that roasting the pistachios beforehand truly enhances their flavor and crunch. It's a simple step but makes a world of difference, elevating the overall taste of the brownies. I enjoyed experimenting with different ratios of chocolate to nuts, which you can easily adjust based on your preference.

While baking, I always check the brownies a couple of minutes before the suggested time to prevent overbaking. A slight underbake can result in a fudgy texture, which is what I strive for. These tips helped me perfect a dessert that never fails to delight!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy pistachios
Fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of these Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares is undoubtedly the combination of rich cocoa powder and semi-sweet chocolate. Using high-quality cocoa powder enhances the depth of flavor, giving the brownies a fudgy consistency. I recommend using Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother texture and less acidity, which pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the granulated sugar. Ensure that your butter is unsalted for better control over the saltiness in your brownies, allowing the chocolate and pistachio flavors to shine through.

Pistachios not only add a satisfying crunch but also complement the richness of chocolate perfectly. When selecting pistachios, opt for shelled ones to save time, but be mindful of their freshness. Storing them in an airtight container will keep them vibrant and tasty. You can also substitute pistachios with walnuts or pecans if you prefer a different nut flavor, but I find the pistachios uniquely enhance the overall experience.

Perfecting the Brownie Texture

To achieve that signature fudgy texture, it’s crucial not to overmix the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Stir just until the flour is incorporated to avoid developing too much gluten, which can lead to a cake-like brownie instead of the dense, gooey treat we desire. Pay attention to the baking time as well—overbaking will result in dry brownies. Look for the edges to set while the center remains soft; a few moist crumbs on a toothpick test are a good indication that they’re done.

Cooling the brownies properly is another key step. Allow them to cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes before lifting them out. This resting time helps to firm them up, making it easier to cut into clean squares. If you prefer a softer texture, consider serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, elevating the indulgence.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your chocolate pistachio brownie squares:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped pistachios

Make sure to follow the instructions accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Here’s how to prepare these delicious brownies:

Preheat Oven

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

Melt Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Add Pistachios

Fold in the chopped pistachios gently to the batter, ensuring even distribution.

Bake the Brownies

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

Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the brownies to cool in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Let the brownies cool completely for the best texture before serving!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking or add chocolate chips to the batter.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownie squares can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to five days at room temperature. To maintain their freshness, place a piece of parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. If you're looking to save them for longer, these brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature when you're ready to indulge.

To enhance your serving experience, consider dusting the brownies with powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate before serving. This simple addition not only adds elegance but also a touch of extra sweetness. You can also pair them with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast.

Creative Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, try incorporating a layer of smooth Nutella into the brownie batter before baking. Swirl it gently with a knife for a marbled effect; this will amplify the chocolate flavor and enhance the gooey texture. Alternatively, you may add a pinch of espresso powder to the batter to intensify the chocolate's depth without imparting a coffee flavor—just a small amount goes a long way!

If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with flavors by adding a teaspoon of almond extract for a more pronounced nutty taste or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking to enhance the sweetness. Each variation can add a personal touch to the brownies while keeping the core recipe intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the pistachios with another nut?

Yes, you can use walnuts or pecans if you prefer!

→ What should I do if the brownies are too dry?

Make sure not to overbake! Remove them once a toothpick inserted has a few moist crumbs.

→ Can these brownies be frozen?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to three months.

→ How can I store leftover brownies?

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