Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares

Name: Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Zest of 1 orange; 1/2 cup crushed pistachios

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Collection

I absolutely love making Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares, especially when I'm craving something indulgent yet refined. The combination of rich chocolate, vibrant orange zest, and crunchy pistachios creates a symphony of flavors that instantly lifts my spirits. It only takes a little time and effort, but the result is a decadent treat that's perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Trust me, once you've tried this delightful recipe, it might just become your go-to dessert for any occasion.

Created by

Ophelia Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-14T07:29:35.422Z

When I first combined chocolate and orange, I was blown away by how well the flavors complemented each other. Adding pistachios not only introduces a delightful crunch but also enhances the visual appeal with their vibrant green color. I learned to mix the ingredients gently to maintain some texture, ensuring every bite is a perfect balance of smooth chocolate and zesty orange.

While preparing these squares, I discovered that letting them chill thoroughly solidifies the flavors, allowing the chocolate to set beautifully. This also intensifies the orangey goodness, making each bite an indulgent experience. You won't want to skip this step for the best results!

Why You'll Love These Squares
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredients in these Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares are undoubtedly the dark chocolate and fresh orange zest. Dark chocolate not only adds a deep, rich flavor but also contributes to the fudgy texture of the squares. Look for chocolate with at least 60% cacao for the best results. The orange zest brightens up the dish, providing a refreshing contrast to the chocolate's richness. Be sure to use a microplane or fine grater to get the zest finely, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.

Pistachios bring a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the smoothness of the chocolate. When crushing the pistachios, I recommend using a zip-top bag and a rolling pin to avoid any mess. If you want a variation, feel free to substitute the pistachios with walnuts or almonds, as they will also add a lovely texture while introducing a different character to the squares. Ensure any nuts you use are roughly chopped to maintain an even distribution throughout the batter.

Baking Tips for Perfection

Achieving the perfect bake is crucial for these fudgy squares. When mixing the chocolate and butter, be careful not to overheat them, as excessive heat can lead to a gritty texture. Melt them slowly over low heat, stirring continuously, until glossy and smooth. Letting the mixture cool slightly before adding it to the eggs prevents cooking them, which is essential for achieving that creamy texture.

Baking time is equally important; I recommend checking these squares around the 22-minute mark. You want to see a slight jiggle in the center when you shake the pan gently, which will indicate that they’re still soft and fudgy inside. Overbaking can turn these squares dry, so trust your instincts and resist the urge to bake until they are completely firm. Once cooled, they will continue to set perfectly.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth baking experience!

Ingredients

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
Zest of 1 orange
1/2 cup crushed pistachios

Once you have everything, you're ready to dive into this delicious recipe!

Instructions

Make sure to preheat your oven before starting!

Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the dark chocolate chips and unsalted butter together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and eggs, whisking until well blended. Stir in the vanilla extract and cooled chocolate mixture, mixing until smooth.

Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in the flour and salt, followed by the orange zest. Fold gently until just combined. Finally, stir in the crushed pistachios.

Bake

Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool completely.

Cut and Serve

Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy your Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

Enjoy these delightful squares with a cup of tea or coffee!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try drizzling some melted chocolate over the squares before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares are deliciously decadent on their own, but consider serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the experience. The creamy elements help balance the dense squares and introduce a contrasting temperature that makes each bite delightful. For an extra touch, you could drizzle homemade chocolate sauce on top for those who can't get enough chocolate.

If you're looking to impress, plate the squares with a sprinkle of additional crushed pistachios and a touch of powdered sugar. This not only enhances their appearance but also adds a textural contrast when enjoyed. Pair them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a sweet dessert wine for an indulgent end to an evening meal.

Storing and Freezing

To store your Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to preserve their freshness longer, you can refrigerate them, but be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. The cold can mute the chocolate flavor, which is why I prefer them at room temperature.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing the squares. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours or on the counter for about 30 minutes. This way, you’ll always have a stash of these delicious treats at hand!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate?

Yes, you can, but it will alter the flavor and sweetness. Milk chocolate will make it sweeter.

→ How should I store the leftovers?

Store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make these squares gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I use instead of pistachios?

You can replace pistachios with any nuts of your choice, such as almonds or walnuts.