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: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 cup chopped pistachios

Highlighted under: Oven Inspiration

I absolutely love whipping up these Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares whenever I crave something rich and decadent. The combination of velvety chocolate and crunchy pistachios creates a symphony of textures that really enhances each bite. These brownies have become a go-to treat for gatherings, and they never fail to impress my friends and family. The hint of pistachio elevates the classic brownie, making it a delightful indulgence that’s perfect for any occasion. Trust me, these treats are simply irresistible!

Created by

Kerensa Trelawney

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:37:34.539Z

Over the years, I’ve experimented with various brownie recipes, but nothing matches the delectable pairing of chocolate and pistachio. One night, I decided to add crushed pistachios to my traditional brownie batter, instantly transforming a classic into something special. I found that the nutty flavor complements the chocolate perfectly, making each bite a new experience. The key is to chop the pistachios finely, allowing them to incorporate well throughout the batter while providing a pleasant crunch.

During my trials, I discovered that adding a sprinkle of sea salt before baking enhances the flavors remarkably. It balances the sweetness of the chocolate, making these brownies even more satisfying. After several versions, I landed on the ideal baking time; 25 minutes yields a fudgy center with crisp edges. Trust me, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will be utterly tempting!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy pistachios
Fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for gatherings or a night in
Simple to make yet impressively elegant

Understanding the Ingredients

The base of these Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares is simple yet crucial. Unsalted butter not only adds richness but also contributes to a fudgy texture. Using room temperature eggs helps to incorporate air into the batter, which contributes to a slightly lighter crumb, ensuring the brownies are not overly dense. Always opt for high-quality cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor; brands like Hershey's or Valrhona are excellent choices that make a significant difference in taste.

Pistachios not only provide a delightful crunch but also enhance flavor. When chopping, aim for uneven pieces to create pockets of texture throughout the brownies. Raw or roasted pistachios both work, but if you prefer a slightly smokier flavor, stick with the roasted variety. If you're looking for a nut-free option, try substituting with chopped walnuts or even leaving them out entirely for a pure chocolate experience.

Techniques for Perfection

Melt the butter slowly to avoid scorching, as burnt butter will impart a bitter taste to your brownies. After melting, it's essential to let it cool slightly before mixing in the sugar, as adding sugar to hot butter can cause it to clump. When combining the dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix after adding to the wet ingredients. The goal is to combine them just until no dry flour is visible, as overmixing can result in tougher brownies due to gluten development.

When pouring the batter into the prepared pan, ensuring an even spread is key. Use a spatula to flatten the top, which promotes even baking. Keep an eye on the baking time; the brownies should pull away from the edges of the pan and maintain a slight jiggle in the center when done. A toothpick test is helpful; you're looking for moist crumbs rather than wet batter, which indicates perfect fudginess.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup chopped pistachios

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Melt Butter and Mix Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well blended.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually stir this dry mixture into the butter mixture until just combined.

Add Pistachios

Fold in the chopped pistachios, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Cut

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Pro Tips

For an extra gourmet touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled brownies or topping them with whipped cream and a few extra pistachios.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownie squares can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. For longer storage, they freeze beautifully! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and let them come to room temperature before serving, allowing their fudgy texture to return.

If you plan to make these brownies ahead for an event, consider preparing the batter a day in advance. After mixing, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Allow the batter to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. This can even intensify the flavors, as the ingredients meld overnight.

Serving Suggestions

These chocolate pistachio brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the dessert by serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce. For a more sophisticated presentation, dust the cooled brownies with confectioners' sugar or cocoa powder before cutting. This adds an elegant touch and a hint of sweetness that's perfect for special occasions.

For added flair, consider pairing these brownies with complementary flavors. A dollop of whipped cream infused with orange zest can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate. Alternatively, serving them alongside a berry compote adds a fruity element that balances the sweetness of the brownies and creates a beautiful color contrast on the plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans would work great if you prefer a different flavor.

→ How should I store these brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Yes, you can freeze the brownies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and they will last for up to three months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use unsweetened applesauce, a mashed banana, or a commercial egg replacer for a vegan option.