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; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; Zest of 1 orange; 1/2 cup chopped pistachios; 1/4 cup dark chocolate, melted; Extra pistachios for garnish; Pinch of sea salt

Highlighted under: Modern Kitchen

I love indulging in sweets that bring a burst of flavor with every bite, and these Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares do just that. The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing citrus paired with the delightful crunch of pistachios creates a treat that's both luxurious and satisfying. With a few simple ingredients and a straightforward process, I can whip up these squares for any occasion—be it a cozy night in or a festive gathering with friends. Every bite transports me to a sweet escape, and I think you'll love them just as much as I do!

Created by

Rhiannon Sutherland

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:37:35.352Z

Making these Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares has become one of my favorite weekend rituals. The interplay of the zesty orange with deep chocolate is mesmerizing, and I often add a hint of sea salt to elevate the flavors. I find that allowing the squares to chill in the fridge for a couple of hours intensifies their taste and gives them a more pronounced richness, which is simply divine.

My go-to tip is to use high-quality dark chocolate, as it really makes a difference in the final product. I also like to toast the pistachios lightly before mixing them in; this enhances their nutty flavor and provides an extra dimension to each square. Trust me, trying these will make your taste buds dance!

        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

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The dark chocolate chips provide deep cocoa richness, which combines beautifully with the vibrant orange zest. The unsalted butter not only helps to melt the chocolate smoothly but also contributes to the fudgy texture of the squares. Using large eggs helps bind the mixture while adding moisture; be sure to let them come to room temperature for better incorporation.

Pistachios are not just a mere additive; they lend a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft squares. If you're looking for a substitution, macadamia nuts or almonds work well, although they will impart a different flavor profile. Ensure to chop them evenly, so that every bite contains that signature pistachio crunch. The additional touch of sea salt on top before serving enhances the chocolate flavor, making each bite an indulgent experience.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

When baking the squares, keep a close eye on the time. Every oven varies, so it's wise to check for doneness a few minutes before the 25-minute mark. You want the edges to look set, while the center should still have a slight jiggle. This indicates a fudgy texture rather than a dry, overbaked product. Once removed from the oven, allow the squares to cool in the pan initially before transferring them to a wire rack; this prevents them from becoming too crumbly.

I've found that cutting the squares right after they cool can be tricky since they may fall apart. For cleaner cuts, allow them to chill in the refrigerator for about an hour. This chilling step firms up the consistency, making it easier to achieve those perfect square shapes. A sharp knife or a bench scraper works best for cutting; running it under hot water between cuts can help you create smooth edges.

Ingredients

For the Squares

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup unsalted butter
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Zest of 1 orange
1/2 cup chopped pistachios

For Topping

1/4 cup dark chocolate, melted
Extra pistachios for garnish
Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a square baking pan (8x8 inches) with butter or line it with parchment paper.

Melt Chocolate and Butter

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Stir in the cooled chocolate mixture.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and orange zest. Gradually add this to the chocolate mixture, stirring until just combined.

Add Pistachios

Fold in the chopped pistachios before pouring the batter into the prepared baking pan.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares.

Add Topping

Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the squares, garnish with extra pistachios and a pinch of sea salt. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

To maximize the flavor, try to use fresh orange zest and high-quality chocolate. Toasting the pistachios beforehand will enhance their taste substantially.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares shine on their own, but dressing them up can elevate their presentation. Serve them on a platter drizzled with a bit of the melted dark chocolate, creating a beautiful contrast with the rich brown squares. Pair them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures. Alternatively, a dollop of freshly whipped cream with a sprinkle of extra orange zest harmonizes beautifully with the flavors.

For a festive touch, consider adding candied orange slices to your serving plate. The added sweetness and texture complement the citrus notes in the squares and create a stunning visual appeal, perfect for gatherings. You can even dust a little cocoa powder over the top of each square right before serving for a sophisticated look.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare these squares in advance, they store remarkably well. After cutting them into squares, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. Just be sure to layer parchment paper between the squares to prevent them from sticking together.

When you're ready to enjoy frozen squares, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours, or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Reheating is easy; just pop them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer them slightly warm, which will enhance their fudginess while reviving the flavors beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate, but keep in mind that the sweetness will increase, and the flavor profile will change.

→ How should I store the squares?

These squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for 1 week.

→ Can I freeze the squares?

Yes, the squares freeze well! Wrap them individually and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of pistachios?

You can use walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts if you prefer a different nut flavor.