Description
These Chocolate and Pistachio Bars are a decadent no-fuss dessert featuring a crunchy graham cracker and cocoa crust layered with a luscious chocolate and condensed milk filling, topped with crunchy crushed pistachios. Baked until set, these bars offer a perfect balance of rich chocolate, nutty crunch, and creamy sweetness, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- A pinch of salt
Filling
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 cup crushed pistachios
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Make the Crust Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Press the Crust: Firmly press the crust mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer that will serve as the base of your bars.
- Prepare Chocolate Filling: In another bowl, stir together the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract until the chocolate chips are evenly coated and the mixture is smooth.
- Layer the Filling: Pour the chocolate mixture evenly over the crust layer in the baking dish, spreading it out to all corners.
- Add Pistachio Topping: Sprinkle the crushed pistachios evenly over the chocolate layer, gently pressing them down to help them adhere.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center remains slightly soft to the touch.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into 16 bars before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the baking dish is well lined with parchment paper for easy removal of bars.
- You can substitute pistachios with other nuts like almonds or walnuts if preferred.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- For a softer texture, slightly reduce the baking time.
