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: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 100g unsalted butter; 150g sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 100g all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; Zest of 1 orange; 50g pistachios, chopped; 2 tablespoons orange sugar (optional); Powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Baked Collection

I love creating sweet treats that blend unique flavors, and these Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares are among my favorites. With their rich chocolate base, delightful orange zest, and crunchy pistachios, they offer a perfect balance of tastes and textures. Each bite is a wonderful indulgence, and I often find myself making them for special occasions or simply because I want to enjoy something delicious. The best part is how straightforward the recipe is, making it easy for anyone to impress their family and friends with a truly gourmet dessert.

Created by

Hester Lockwood

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:49:35.874Z

Making these Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares was a delightful adventure in my kitchen. I experimented with the proportions of chocolate to orange zest and found that just the right amount of zest brightened the chocolate flavor perfectly, creating a dessert that feels both sophisticated and comforting. I suggest using high-quality chocolate for the best results.

The texture is equally important, so I ensured to finely chop the pistachios to incorporate them seamlessly into the chocolate layer, providing a lovely crunch without overwhelming the squares. These tips transformed the recipe into a favorite in our household!

Why You'll Love These Chocolate Orange Pistachio 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 Key Ingredients

In these Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares, dark chocolate serves as the foundation, delivering intense flavor and a rich, fudgy texture. Choose a high-quality chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a deeper flavor profile. The butter adds creaminess, while the eggs provide structure, creating a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience. The sugar balances the bitterness of chocolate, so using granulated sugar works best for this recipe as it dissolves easily.

Orange zest not only complements the chocolate but also enhances the overall flavor complexity. When zesting, make sure to only use the outermost layer of the orange peel, as the white pith underneath can impart a bitter taste. If you wish, you can substitute the orange zest with lemon or lime zest for a different yet refreshing twist.

Perfecting Your Baking Technique

When melting the chocolate and butter, using a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over simmering water can prevent the chocolate from burning. If you choose to melt them directly in a saucepan, keep the heat low and stir constantly until you achieve a glossy mixture. Letting the melted mixture cool slightly before adding to the eggs is crucial, as it prevents the eggs from cooking and ensures a smooth batter.

Baking at the correct temperature is essential for achieving the right texture. An oven temperature of 180°C (350°F) is ideal, but keep an eye on your squares as oven temperatures can vary. Look for the edges to turn slightly golden and for the center to appear set yet still slightly soft. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating that they're perfectly baked.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious squares:

For the Chocolate Layer

200g dark chocolate, chopped
100g unsalted butter
150g sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
100g all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Zest of 1 orange

For the Topping

50g pistachios, chopped
2 tablespoons orange sugar (optional)
Powdered sugar for dusting

Make sure to prepare these ingredients fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to make your Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares:

Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped dark chocolate and butter. Stir continuously until completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Add the melted chocolate mixture and blend well.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and orange zest. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a 9x9 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the dish and smooth the top.

Add Topping

Sprinkle the chopped pistachios evenly over the batter. If desired, add orange sugar for an extra zing.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan before cutting into squares.

Serve

Dust the squares with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares!

Make sure to let the squares cool completely for the best texture.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a swirl of orange-infused cream on top before serving, which complements the flavors wonderfully.

Ideas for Serving and Enjoying

These Chocolate Orange Pistachio Squares can be enjoyed in various ways. I love pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert. You could also serve them alongside a cup of espresso or a citrus tea to complement the flavors beautifully. For a more festive presentation, consider drizzling melted dark chocolate over the squares before dusting them with powdered sugar.

If you're looking to elevate your dessert, try making a simple orange glaze by mixing powdered sugar with fresh orange juice. Drizzling this over the cooled squares adds an extra layer of citrus flavor and a glossy finish that makes them even more appealing.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These squares keep well and can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for parties or gatherings. Store the cooled squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them where they can last up to a week. If you prefer freezing, cut the squares into portions, wrap them individually, and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

To reintroduce their initial fudgy texture post-freezer, gently warm the squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will revive their gooeyness without compromising their taste. Just be cautious not to overheat them, as high temperatures can dry them out.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, using milk chocolate will make the squares sweeter and creamier, but it will alter the overall flavor.

→ How should I store leftover squares?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! You can freeze the squares for up to three months. Just wrap each square individually to maintain freshness.

→ What can I substitute for pistachios?

Feel free to substitute pistachios with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor and texture.