There’s something irresistible about the perfect balance of sweet and nutty in a dessert, and the Dark Chocolate Chunk Pistachio Blondies Recipe hits that note with pure magic. These blondies boast a luscious pistachio paste folded into a tender, buttery base, studded with generous chunks of rich dark chocolate, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt that wakes up every bite. The matcha powder adds a subtle earthiness and a beautiful hint of green that makes these blondies as stunning as they are delicious. If you’re looking for a unique twist on a classic treat to share with friends or just enjoy yourself, this recipe is a must-try favorite that you’ll reach for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating these divine blondies. Each item here plays a vital role in achieving that perfect texture, vibrant flavor, and stunning color that make this Dark Chocolate Chunk Pistachio Blondies Recipe so unforgettable.
- ½ cup (65g) roasted salted pistachios (no shell): Provides the star nutty flavor and texture, roasted for depth.
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil: Helps create the rich pistachio paste with a smooth consistency.
- 1 large egg (room temperature): Adds moisture and helps bind all the ingredients together.
- 1 large egg yolk: Boosts the richness and tender crumb of the blondies.
- ½ cup (110g) packed light brown sugar: Gives moisture, caramel notes, and a chewy texture.
- ⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and helps with browning.
- 7 tbsp (100g) salted butter (melted): The essential fat that delivers richness and flavor.
- ½ tsp pure vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complements the pistachio and chocolate beautifully.
- ¼ tsp pure almond extract: Enhances the nutty profile and adds a subtle aromatic hint.
- ¾ cup plus 2 tbsp (120g) all-purpose flour: Builds structure without making the blondies too dense.
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder: Lends a gentle earthiness and a pretty pale green tint.
- ¼ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- ⅛ tsp baking powder: Provides a light lift for a tender crumb.
- 1 cup (142g) coarsely chopped dark chocolate: Creates pockets of melty, bittersweet indulgence.
- 2 tbsp ground pistachios (for topping): Adds texture and a nutty finish on top.
- Flaky sea salt: A finishing touch that makes every bite pop with flavor.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Dark Chocolate Chunk Pistachio Blondies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F and lining an 8×8-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper. Leaving a generous 2-inch overhang on the sides helps you lift the blondies out smoothly once baked. This simple prep sets the stage for a flawless bake every time.
Step 2: Craft the Pistachio Paste
Using a small food processor, pulse the roasted, salted pistachios until very finely ground. Then, add the olive oil and continue grinding until the mixture thickens into a coarse yet spreadable paste. Unlike creamy nut butters, this paste has a satisfying texture that shines in every bite of the blondies.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, egg yolk, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth and creamy. Stir in the melted butter, then fold in the pistachio paste. This luscious batter is where the flavors start to build beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Incorporate
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, matcha powder, salt, and baking powder. Add this dry mix to the wet ingredients and gently fold until mostly combined — you want just a few streaks of flour left for perfect texture. Next, fold in the chopped dark chocolate chunks evenly for those signature gooey pockets.
Step 5: Bake and Add Final Touches
Spread the thick batter evenly into your prepared pan using a small offset spatula, then sprinkle the ground pistachios on top. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes until the edges turn golden and the center is still slightly soft to the touch. Let the blondies cool completely on a wire rack before topping with flaky sea salt. Then slice and prepare to be amazed!
How to Serve Dark Chocolate Chunk Pistachio Blondies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra flaky sea salt over the blondies right before serving to enhance the sweet and nutty contrasts. For a festive twist, add a light dusting of powdered sugar or even a drizzle of white chocolate to highlight the luxurious textures.
Side Dishes
These blondies pair wonderfully with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, or even a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. A hot cup of strong coffee or green tea also complements the nutty matcha flavor beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, cut the blondies into bite-sized squares and skewer them on decorative sticks for party treats. You can also layer chunks between ice cream sandwiches or crumble them over yogurt parfaits to add a nutty chocolate crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep their moist and tender texture. If you prefer, refrigeration can extend freshness up to a week, but allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezing
Dark Chocolate Chunk Pistachio Blondies Recipe leftovers freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To revive their soft and melty charm, briefly warm blondies in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or pop them in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 to 7 minutes. This brings out the gooey goodness of the chocolate chunks beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use unsalted pistachios instead of salted?
Absolutely! Unsalted pistachios will give a slightly milder, less salty flavor, so consider adding a pinch more salt to balance the sweetness effectively.
What type of dark chocolate works best for this recipe?
Choose a dark chocolate bar with around 60-70% cocoa content for the best balance of richness and slight bitterness that complements the sweet, nutty blondie base.
Is matcha powder necessary?
While matcha adds a beautiful green hue and earthy note that makes these blondies extra special, you can omit it if unavailable—the recipe will still be delicious!
Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend in equal amounts, but be mindful of flour blends that already contain leavening agents, adjusting accordingly.
How long do these blondies stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these blondies stay fresh for about 3 days at room temperature and up to a week refrigerated, preserving their soft and chewy texture.
Final Thoughts
Once you experience the harmony of crunchy pistachios, melty dark chocolate, and the subtle hint of matcha in this Dark Chocolate Chunk Pistachio Blondies Recipe, you’ll understand why it holds a special place in my kitchen. It’s a recipe made to share, savor, and celebrate the simple pleasures of baking. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it part of your go-to dessert collection.
PrintDark Chocolate Chunk Pistachio Blondies Recipe
These Dark Chocolate Chunk Pistachio Blondies combine the rich flavors of roasted pistachios and dark chocolate chunks with a subtle hint of matcha powder. Featuring a moist, buttery texture and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top, this delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion. Ready in just 35 minutes and yielding 16 generous servings, these blondies offer a unique twist on classic blondies with a nutty, slightly earthy flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Blondie Base
- ½ cup (65g) roasted salted pistachios (no shell)
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 large egg yolk
- ½ cup (110g) packed light brown sugar
- ⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar
- 7 tbsp (100g) salted butter, melted
- ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp pure almond extract
Dry Ingredients
- ¾ cup plus 2 tbsp (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp baking powder
Add-ins and Toppings
- 1 cup (142g) coarsely chopped dark chocolate
- 2 tbsp ground pistachios (for topping)
- Flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on each side for easy removal of the baked blondies.
- Make Pistachio Paste: Place the roasted salted pistachios into a small food processor and pulse until the nuts are very finely ground. Add the olive oil and continue to grind until the mixture forms a thick, coarse paste; it will not be completely smooth but should be thick enough to incorporate into the batter.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, egg yolk, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined. Slowly add the melted salted butter and mix it in thoroughly. Then incorporate the pistachio paste into the wet mixture, ensuring an even blend.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, matcha powder, salt, and baking powder to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients and gently fold them together until mostly incorporated, allowing a few streaks of flour to remain visible. Carefully fold in the chopped dark chocolate chunks until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Spread Batter and Add Toppings: Using a small offset spatula, spread the thick batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the additional ground pistachios evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake the blondies in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is still slightly soft when gently pressed.
- Cool and Finish: Remove the pan from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. While the chocolate is still soft but just before fully set, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top. Once fully cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the blondies out of the pan and slice into 16 pieces. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature eggs to ensure smooth mixing.
- Don’t overfold the batter; leaving a few streaks of flour helps keep the blondies tender.
- The pistachio paste should be thick but slightly coarse — avoid over-processing to a smooth nut butter consistency.
- Flaky sea salt on top enhances the flavor by balancing the sweetness and deep chocolate notes.
- Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Feel free to substitute the dark chocolate chunks with semi-sweet if preferred.
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