Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped pistachios

Highlighted under: Oven Inspiration

I absolutely love whipping up a batch of Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares whenever I need a quick and delicious treat. The rich chocolate combined with the surprising crunch of pistachios creates a delightful contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more. I love how easy these brownies are to make, and they always impress friends and family. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you have a dessert that shines at any gathering, or even just for a cozy night in.

Created by

Sybil Hawkes

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:01:34.378Z

When I first created these Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares, I wanted to combine my two favorite flavors into one decadent treat. The addition of ground pistachios not only enhances the texture, but also brings a subtle nuttiness that balances the sweetness of chocolate. After experimenting with various ratios, I found that a bit of sea salt on top really elevates every bite.

The trick to ensuring these brownies stay fudgy is not to overmix the batter. I’ve learned that folding in the chocolate and nuts gently keeps the moisture intact, resulting in a soft and chewy texture that’s incredibly satisfying. Each square is like a little indulgence!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy pistachios
Chewy texture that's irresistibly satisfying
Perfect for sharing or as a sweet treat to enjoy alone

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of unsalted butter and granulated sugar forms the foundation for rich, fudgy brownies. The butter should be melted but not overly hot, as this can lead to greasy brownies. A good rule of thumb is to let the melted butter cool slightly before mixing in the sugar, ensuring they blend smoothly and create a glossy batter.

Cocoa powder is essential for that deep chocolate flavor, while the addition of pistachios not only enhances the taste but also adds a beautiful contrast in texture. If you're looking for a twist, consider substituting the pistachios with walnuts or almonds, but keep in mind that the flavor profile will change.

Perfecting the Mixing Technique

When combining the dry ingredients, make sure to sift the flour and cocoa powder together. This helps prevent any lumps and ensures even distribution throughout the batter. Overmixing can lead to dry brownies, so aim to mix just until you no longer see dry flour. It's okay if there are a few small lumps; they will disappear during baking.

Folding in the pistachios at the end ensures that they remain intact without breaking into smaller pieces, preserving their delightful crunch in every bite. Use a spatula and a gentle motion to incorporate them. This will maintain the light texture of the brownie and allow the pistachios to shine.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start baking:

Ingredients for Brownies

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

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your brownies:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

Make the batter

In a large bowl, mix melted butter and sugar together until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, then gradually fold this mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add the pistachios

Gently fold in the chopped pistachios until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. Once cool, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper, cut into squares, and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra special touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled brownies before cutting them into squares.

Serving and Enjoying

For an elevated dessert experience, serve the Chocolate Pistachio Brownie Squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream melts slightly against the warm brownies, creating a delightful contrast. You can also drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce on top for added richness.

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days if they last that long! For longer storage, freeze individual squares wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a zip-top bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your brownies come out too dry, it could be due to overbaking. To avoid this, check for doneness at the 25-minute mark by inserting a toothpick; a few moist crumbs should cling to it. Remember, the brownies will continue to set as they cool in the pan.

Conversely, if your brownies are too gooey, it may indicate that they were underbaked. Make sure to let them cool completely in the pan before slicing. If you prefer a more fudgy texture, you can reduce the baking time slightly, but keep a close eye on them to prevent underbaking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the pistachios with another nut?

Absolutely! You can use walnuts or pecans if you prefer. Just ensure they are chopped similarly.

→ How should I store these brownies?

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

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, they freeze well! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with these brownies?

They pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.