Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares

Name: Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 100g unsalted butter; 150g granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 75g all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Zest of 1 orange; 100g roasted pistachios, roughly chopped

Highlighted under: Classic Ideas

I absolutely love how the combination of rich chocolate and zesty orange creates a unique flavor that elevates these Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares to a whole new level. The crunch of pistachios adds a delightful texture that complements the creamy chocolate perfectly. When I first made these squares, I was surprised at how quickly they came together and how satisfying they were. They're fantastic for gatherings or simply as a little indulgence when you're craving something sweet and decadent.

Created by

Unity Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-14T04:09:35.954Z

When I first decided to create these Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares, it was all about bringing together flavors that I adore. The citrus notes from the orange zest perfectly complement the deep richness of the chocolate, making each bite a pure delight. I found that letting the squares chill allows the chocolate to set nicely, which keeps the texture firm yet melt-in-your-mouth soft.

During my experimentation with the recipe, I realized that the use of roasted pistachios not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful crunch. Incorporating the pistachios at the end preserves their texture, giving the squares that delightful contrast in every bite. Trust me, you'll want to share these, but you might just find them too good to resist!

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

      

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares plays a crucial role in achieving the desired flavor and texture. The dark chocolate provides a deep, rich essence that balances beautifully with the bright notes of fresh orange zest. It's important to choose high-quality chocolate, as its flavor is a primary component of the finished treat. I recommend using chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for maximum richness.

The unsalted butter adds creaminess and moisture, ensuring that the dessert is not only fudgy but also indulgent. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut oil can serve as a great substitute, while still providing a nice texture. Keep in mind that using butter will yield a more traditional flavor profile which pairs wonderfully with the pistachios.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

When mixing the dry ingredients into the wet, it's essential to fold gently to avoid over-developing the gluten in the flour. This ensures your squares remain tender and chewy rather than tough. I recommend using a rubber spatula for this step; it helps incorporate the ingredients without deflating the batter.

For the best results, be mindful of your baking time. Overbaking can lead to dry squares, while underbaking may leave them too gooey in the center. Keep an eye on the edges; they should appear set while the center can still have a slight jiggle when you take it out of the oven. A toothpick inserted into the center should have a few moist crumbs clinging to it, indicating they’re perfectly cooked.

Serving and Storing

Once your squares have cooled completely, it's tempting to dive right in! However, allowing them to chill in the refrigerator for an hour can intensify the flavors and improve the texture, making them easier to cut into neat squares. For a serving suggestion, try dusting the top with powdered sugar or adding a light drizzle of melted chocolate to elevate the presentation.

If you have leftover squares (though I doubt they’ll last long!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week, or consider freezing individual squares for up to a month. Just be sure to wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares:

Ingredients

200g dark chocolate, chopped
100g unsalted butter
150g granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
75g all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
Zest of 1 orange
100g roasted pistachios, roughly chopped

With the ingredients prepped, you are ready to start creating these delicious squares!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares:

Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter. Set it over a saucepan filled with simmering water and stir until melted and smooth.

Mix Sugar and Eggs

Remove the bowl from heat and whisk in the granulated sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and orange zest. Gradually add the dry mixture to the chocolate mixture, folding until just combined.

Add Pistachios and Bake

Fold in the chopped pistachios. Pour the batter into a lined baking dish and smooth the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Let the squares cool in the baking dish for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, you can sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking.

Variations to Try

While this recipe shines with chocolate and orange, feel free to experiment with different nut and flavor combinations. For instance, substituting hazelnuts for pistachios adds a warm, nutty flavor that pairs nicely with chocolate. Alternatively, you could try adding a tablespoon of espresso powder for a mocha twist that accentuates the chocolate’s richness.

Consider introducing spices like cinnamon or cardamom into the batter for a warming flavor profile that warms the palate, especially during the cooler months. These subtle changes can make the recipe feel fresh and exciting each time you make it.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your squares are too crumbly, this can often be the result of overbaking or insufficient butter. Be sure to keep a close eye on the baking time and consider measuring the ingredients precisely. A kitchen scale can be a great tool to ensure accuracy, particularly for baking recipes where precision is key.

On the other hand, if the squares appear too dense or undercooked, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer. Sometimes, ovens can run hot or cold, which directly affects baking results. Adjust the baking time accordingly, and ensure the edges are firm while maintaining a slight jiggle in the center for perfect fudginess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

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

→ How should I store the squares?

Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

→ What if I don't have pistachios?

You can replace them with walnuts or almonds for a different taste and texture.