Chocolate Pistachio Brownies

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love experimenting with flavors, and these Chocolate Pistachio Brownies have become a staple in my kitchen. Combining rich chocolate with the unique nuttiness of pistachios creates an irresistible dessert that always leaves my friends asking for more. The texture, with its fudgy center and slightly crisp edges, is simply divine. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these brownies are the perfect indulgence that’s sure to impress.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:58:12.840Z

When I first made these Chocolate Pistachio Brownies, I was amazed at how well the flavors meld together. The key to success lies in using quality dark chocolate and lightly toasting the pistachios. Toasting enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the moist brownie texture.

Another tip I discovered is to let the brownies cool completely before cutting them into squares. This ensures that the edges aren't crumbly and that you achieve clean, beautiful cuts. I can’t tell you how satisfying it is to serve these and see everyone’s delighted faces when they take a bite!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Irresistibly fudgy texture that satisfies your chocolate cravings
Unique flavor profile with the perfect blend of chocolate and pistachios
Easy to make, yet impressive enough for any gathering

      

Texture and Baking Tips

Achieving the perfect texture in your Chocolate Pistachio Brownies relies on careful baking. Bake them just until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs—not a clean toothpick. This usually takes about 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). If you happen to overbake them, they could turn out dry instead of the desired fudgy consistency, so keep a close eye during the last few minutes.

For those who prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using high-quality dark chocolate with a cacao content of around 70%. It will yield a richer taste and enhance the overall depth of the brownies. If you can, try to buy chocolate that is specifically labeled as good for baking, as this often has the best melting properties.

Pistachio Perfecting

Pistachios add a delightful crunch and a subtle nuttiness to these brownies. To maximize their flavor, toast them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes before adding them to the batter. This process enhances their natural oils and brings out a deeper flavor profile that perfectly complements the chocolate.

If you have a nut allergy or are looking for variations, you could easily swap the pistachios for other nuts like walnuts or almonds. They will provide a similar texture but with a different flavor profile. Just ensure to chop them roughly to distribute them evenly without overpowering the chocolate.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These brownies store beautifully! Once cool, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply layer parchment paper between the brownies to prevent sticking, and then seal them well in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy, let them defrost at room temperature for a few hours.

Serving these brownies warm is a treat, especially if you pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For added flair, consider drizzling a simple ganache or chocolate sauce on top. This not only enhances the presentation but also elevates the rich chocolate experience.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Chocolate Pistachio Brownies:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to measure carefully for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your wonderful brownies:

Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the dark chocolate and unsalted butter. Stir continuously until both are melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold this mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.

Add Pistachios

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

Bake the Brownies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the brownie batter into a greased 8x8 inch baking pan. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Pistachio Brownies!

Enjoy these brownies warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking. It enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.

Ingredient Roles

In this recipe, dark chocolate is the star ingredient, providing the rich flavor that pairs beautifully with pistachios. Its fat content also contributes to the fudgy texture of the brownies, so using chocolate with a higher percentage of cocoa solids is recommended for best results.

Unsalted butter is utilized for its flavor, allowing you to control the overall saltiness of your dessert. If you're looking to make these brownies dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative, keeping the rest of the ingredients the same to maintain consistency.

Troubleshooting and Common Issues

If your brownies turn out too dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined helps maintain that fudgy texture. On the opposite end, if they seem too cake-like, it could be a result of overbaking, so keep that timer handy and do the toothpick test.

Another common issue is uneven baking. To prevent this, make sure to spread the batter evenly in the pan and rotate it halfway through baking if your oven has hot spots. Also, avoiding overfilling the pan can prevent the brownies from cooking improperly, as they'll have more room to rise and bake evenly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate, but the flavor profile will be sweeter and less intense.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce as an egg substitute in this recipe.