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

Highlighted under: Modern Kitchen

I absolutely love baking these Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares whenever I need a sweet treat. The rich chocolate combined with the unique crunch of pistachios creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist. I've perfected this recipe over time, ensuring that the brownies remain moist and fudgy while still packing a punch of flavor. Whether I'm sharing them at a gathering or keeping them all to myself, these brownies never fail to bring a smile to my face!

Created by

Primrose Cavendish

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:37:35.301Z

Having experimented with various brownie recipes, I found that adding pistachios really elevates the entire dessert. The nutty flavor complements the chocolate beautifully while providing a satisfying texture. During my recent bake-off, these squares stole the show, and it's all thanks to that perfect blend of rich melted chocolate and finely chopped nuts.

One key tip I've discovered is to slightly underbake the brownies for that gooey center. This way, they remain fudgy even as they cool. Trust me, the slightly raw feel just adds to their charm, and they are best enjoyed fresh!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Decadent chocolate flavor with a nutty crunch.
Perfectly fudgy texture that melts in your mouth.
Easy to prepare and impress your guests.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares revolves around the quality of the ingredients used. For instance, using high-quality cocoa powder will significantly enhance the chocolate flavor, providing a deeper, richer taste. I prefer Dutch-processed cocoa for its smoothness, but natural cocoa also works well. When selecting pistachios, look for fresh, unsalted nuts that have a vibrant green color, as they add both crunch and a slightly salty balance to the sweetness of the brownies.

Butter plays a crucial role in achieving that decadent fudgy texture. I recommend using unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the recipe. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with melted coconut oil or margarine, but the flavor will slightly differ. The eggs are essential for moisture and binding; thus, it’s best not to skip them or find a direct replacement if vegan. If you need a vegan option, consider using a flaxseed meal or chia seed substitute, mixing 1 tablespoon of flaxseed or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg.

Perfecting the Baking Technique

Achieving the perfect fudgy brownie texture requires careful attention during the mixing and baking process. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, it’s essential to mix until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense, cake-like brownies. Instead, aim for a slightly chunky batter with visible flour streaks when you pour it into the pan. This creates that signature fudgy texture you crave, allowing for a perfectly moist interior once baked.

Baking time is another critical factor—aim for 25 minutes, but start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier. Every oven is slightly different, so look for the edges to pull away from the sides and a slight sheen on top before inserting a toothpick, which should come out with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out clean, you may have overbaked them, leading to a drier result. Allowing them to cool in the pan will continue the cooking process slightly, giving you that perfect chewy bite.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

Brownie Base

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

Instructions

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Melt Butter and Mix Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients until just combined.

Fold in Pistachios

Gently fold the chopped pistachios into the brownie batter.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a moist crumb.

Cool and Cut

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before cutting them into squares.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider sprinkling some sea salt on top right after removing them from the oven.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares are deliciously versatile. Enjoy them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert that contrasts the fudgy brownie with creamy ice cream. For an elegant touch, drizzle a bit of melted chocolate on top or serve with fresh raspberries for a burst of tartness that complements the rich chocolate flavor beautifully.

They also make an unforgettable addition to any dessert table at gatherings or events. Consider cutting them into smaller squares for bite-sized treats or topping them with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for an inviting presentation. If you're feeling adventurous, try experimenting with nut mixes or adding a swirl of cream cheese for a unique twist.

Storage and Freezing Tips

To store your chocolate pistachio brownies, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can last up to a week if kept at room temperature but will maintain their freshness even longer if refrigerated. Always ensure they're well-sealed to prevent them from drying out, as these brownies thrive on their moisture.

For longer-term storage, these brownies freeze exceptionally well. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, just remove them from the freezer and allow them to thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up if you're craving that fresh-baked taste!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use nuts other than pistachios?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds would also work wonderfully in this recipe.

→ How can I ensure my brownies are extra fudgy?

Try reducing the baking time slightly or adding an extra egg for richness.

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, the recipe can easily be made gluten-free.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for up to a week.