Chocolate Pistachio Brownies

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter (melted); 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup shelled pistachios (chopped)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Pistachio Brownies whenever I have friends over or need a sweet treat to lift my spirits. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy pistachios creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist. The texture is chewy and fudgy, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:43:07.343Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed by how well the pistachios paired with chocolate. I took a classic brownie base, added a sprinkle of salt and chopped pistachios, and the result was simply heavenly. The key is to toast the pistachios slightly to enhance their flavor, which also adds a lovely crunch to each bite.

Another tip I discovered is to underbake the brownies slightly for that perfect fudgy interior. I usually take them out when the edges pull away and the center still has a slight jiggle. This ensures that every piece is soft and melts in the mouth. Give it a try!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Decadent chocolate flavor with a nutty crunch from pistachios
Fudgy texture that satisfies chocolate cravings
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

Understanding Your Ingredients

The choice of cocoa powder plays a crucial role in the flavor profile of these brownies. Opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa for a rich chocolate taste. Dutch-processed cocoa can be used for a slightly different flavor, but it may alter the final texture. The butter should be unsalted, as this allows you to control the saltiness of the brownies better. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil can be a suitable substitute, keeping in mind it will impart a subtle coconut flavor.

Pistachios add not only a delightful crunch but also a unique nutty flavor that complements the chocolate. Be sure to chop them into uniform pieces; this ensures even distribution throughout the brownies. If pistachios are hard to find, walnuts or pecans can be used, but they will change the flavor profile. Toasting the nuts lightly before adding them to the batter intensifies their flavor; just a few minutes in a skillet will do the trick.

Baking Tips for Perfection

When it comes to baking brownies, timing is everything. Aim for 25 minutes in the oven, but keep an eye on them as baking times can vary based on your oven calibration. You'll know they’re done when the edges start to pull away from the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking, as this will lead to a drier texture rather than the fudgy center that makes brownies irresistible.

Letting the brownies cool for about 10 minutes in the pan allows them to firm up, making them easier to lift out. To cut them into even squares, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water; this prevents the brownies from crumbling. If you want clean edges, wipe the knife after each cut. Trust me, presentation matters, especially when sharing these with friends!

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start for an easier baking experience.

For the Brownies

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup shelled pistachios (chopped)

Make sure to chop the pistachios well to distribute their flavor throughout the brownies.

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly baked brownies.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the melted butter and sugar until well blended. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped pistachios.

Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the edges pull away from the sides and the center is slightly jiggly.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Allow the brownies to cool completely before serving to enhance the fudgy texture.

Pro Tips

Always use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor in your brownies. You can also substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nut taste.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container. For longer shelf life, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their freshness to about a week. If you want to prepare them in advance, you can make the batter a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked brownies anytime!

For even longer storage, brownies can be frozen for up to three months. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or pop them in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds to warm them up without compromising the texture.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with add-ins! If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. This contrast of flavors enhances the richness of the chocolate. For a different texture, swirl in a layer of peanut butter or Nutella into the batter before baking for a deliciously creamy surprise.

If you're looking to cater to dietary restrictions, you can replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a slightly lower glycemic index option. Additionally, egg substitutes like flaxseed meal mixed with water can work well for vegan versions; just use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg. Adjusting these ingredients allows you to enjoy the brownies while accommodating various diets.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder?

Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate. Just melt it down and adjust the sugar accordingly.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I add to these brownies for extra flavor?

Consider adding chocolate chips, a pinch of espresso powder, or a swirl of peanut butter for added taste.