Chocolate Pistachio Almond Bars

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Almond Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup pistachios, shelled and chopped; 1/2 cup almonds, chopped

Highlighted under: Sweet Collection

When I first combined rich chocolate and crunchy pistachios to create these bars, I knew I was onto something special. The blend of flavors is utterly irresistible, and each bite feels like pure indulgence. I love how the sweetness of chocolate perfectly balances the salty crunch of almonds, making it a treat that's hard to resist. Whether for a festive gathering or just a cozy night in, these bars are a hit that I keep coming back to. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, which is always a win in my book!

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-01-15T12:53:36.416Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Pistachio Almond Bars, I was amazed at how unique flavors could blend so beautifully. The combination of chocolate with nutty pistachios and crispy almonds is just heavenly. I learned that to enhance the nuttiness, lightly toasting the pistachios beforehand makes a world of difference in flavor and texture.

What really sets these bars apart is the texture—chewy on the inside, crunchy on the outside. I've found that allowing them to chill in the fridge after baking helps set them perfectly. Plus, I love cutting them into different sizes to share with friends, making these bars perfect for any occasion!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy pistachios
Irresistible combination of textures—chewy and crunchy
Perfect treat for both special occasions and everyday indulgence

      

The Magic of Chocolate and Nuts

The combination of dark chocolate, pistachios, and almonds creates a luxurious flavor profile that’s deeply satisfying. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and provides a slightly bitter contrast that enhances the natural sweetness of the bars. When melting the chocolate and butter, be sure to use low heat to avoid scorching; this will keep the chocolate smooth and glossy, perfect for folding into your batter.

Pistachios not only add a delightful crunch but also introduce a subtle, earthy flavor. Their vibrant green adds visual appeal, making these bars a feast for the eyes. Almonds contribute a sweet nuttiness that complements the intense chocolate and balances the mixture. Make sure both nuts are chopped finely enough to distribute evenly, providing texture without overwhelming each bite.

Essential Tips for Perfect Bars

To ensure your bars bake evenly, spread the batter into the prepared dish and smooth the top before placing it in the oven. Baking for precisely 25 minutes will yield a perfect texture; you'll want to see a slightly firm surface with a shiny exterior. A toothpick test is essential here—remove them from the oven when the pick comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached, as they will continue to set once out of the oven.

Cooling is crucial for cutting clean squares. Allowing the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes makes them easier to handle. If they seem too soft when lifted from the dish, give them additional time on the wire rack. I recommend slicing with a sharp knife after they're completely cooled; this ensures clean edges and prevents crumbling.

Ingredients

For the Bars

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup unsalted butter
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup pistachios, shelled and chopped
1/2 cup almonds, chopped

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Melt the Chocolate and Butter

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

Mix the Batter

Remove from heat and stir in the sugar. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually fold this mixture into the chocolate mixture until just combined.

Add Nuts

Gently fold in the chopped pistachios and almonds, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake the Bars

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking for a delightful sweet and salty contrast.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with the nuts! If pistachios aren't available, shredded coconut or chopped walnuts can give a unique twist to these bars. You can also swap in white chocolate chips for a sweeter variation, which can pair beautifully with the salty almonds. If you prefer a nut-free option, consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a chewy texture while still maintaining flavor balance.

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just remember that some flour blends absorb moisture differently, so you might need to adjust the liquid slightly. Adding a tablespoon of almond flour can also enhance the nutty flavor while keeping the texture light and chewy.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Pistachio Almond Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For extended freshness, you can refrigerate them, but let the bars come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. They also freeze well; just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months—perfect for making ahead!

Serving these bars can be as simple or as fancy as you like. Consider dusting them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch, or serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them ideal for a cozy afternoon treat or a sophisticated addition to your next gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind that it will make the bars sweeter.

→ Can I substitute other nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts or pecans according to your preference.

→ How should I store the bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or in the fridge for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.