Chocolate Pistachio Almond Bars

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Almond Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup shelled pistachios, chopped; 1/2 cup slivered almonds

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making these Chocolate Pistachio Almond Bars! The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy pistachios, and creamy almonds creates an indulgent treat that's hard to resist. These bars come together quickly and are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to formal celebrations. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up a batch that always impresses my family and friends. Plus, they’re a delightful option for those who appreciate the unique blend of flavors that chocolate and nuts offer.

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:16:20.020Z

When I first decided to experiment with chocolate and nuts, I never expected to create something as delightful as these Chocolate Pistachio Almond Bars. The rich chocolate base and the unique addition of pistachios offer a flavor that really stands out. I’ve found that toasting the nuts enhances their flavor, adding depth and a satisfying crunch that complements the smoothness of the chocolate.

Additionally, I discovered that letting the bars chill in the refrigerator for a bit before cutting makes it much easier to slice them into neat portions. This little trick has saved me from countless crumbly mishaps and always results in beautiful, even bars I’m proud to share!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Decadent chocolate flavor with nutty undertones
Perfectly balanced texture between crunch and creaminess
Great for sharing, but you might not want to!

      

Understanding the Chocolate

Choosing high-quality dark chocolate chips is crucial for the rich flavor that characterizes these bars. I recommend selecting chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content to achieve a deep, satisfying taste. Melting the chocolate slowly over low heat is essential to prevent it from seizing, which can happen if the temperature gets too high. Stir continuously until the chocolate and butter are fully blended and glossy for the best texture.

Dark chocolate not only adds flavor but also contributes to the bars' structure. The cocoa solids and cocoa butter work together to create a fudgy base, while the melted chocolate keeps the bars moist. If you're in need of a dairy-free option, you can replace the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative, but make sure it has a similar fat content to maintain the intended richness.

Pistachios and Almonds: Texture and Flavor

Both chopped pistachios and slivered almonds bring unique textures and flavors that make these bars truly special. Pistachios lend a lovely crunch and a hint of earthiness, while slivered almonds add a delicate creaminess. For a more pronounced nutty flavor, consider toasting the nuts lightly in a pan before adding them to the batter. Toasting will enhance their natural oils, giving the bars an even richer taste and aroma.

Alternating the nut varieties can also yield interesting results—try swapping in walnuts or hazelnuts for a completely different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, especially if the replacement nuts are larger or softer, adjusting the chop size as needed to match that of the pistachios and almonds.

Ingredients

For the Bars

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
1/2 cup slivered almonds

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.

Melt the Chocolate

In a medium saucepan, melt the dark chocolate chips and butter together over low heat, stirring until smooth.

Prepare the Batter

Remove from heat, then stir in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together, then gradually mix into the chocolate mixture.

Add the Nuts

Fold in the chopped pistachios and slivered almonds until evenly distributed.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, cut into squares.

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking. It brings out the sweetness of the chocolate beautifully.

Storing and Freezing

These Chocolate Pistachio Almond Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their freshness and texture, place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking them. If you need to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to three months in the freezer.

To thaw, simply transfer the desired number of bars to the refrigerator for a few hours or allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as this can alter the texture, making the chocolate melt unevenly.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful serving presentation, pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of temperatures and textures creates a luxurious dessert experience. You might also sprinkle some sea salt over the bars right after they come out of the oven, heightening the flavors of the chocolate and nuts.

If you want to make these a bit more festive, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the top after cooling. This adds a touch of sweetness and an eye-catching contrast to the dark chocolate base. Cut the bars into different shapes using cookie cutters for seasonal occasions or special events, making them not only delicious but visually appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter flavor. Just keep in mind it won’t have the same depth of taste.

→ How should I store these bars?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I add other nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or mix in different nuts according to your preference.

→ Are these bars gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.