Dark Chocolate Nut Squares
Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes
Indulge in the rich, decadent flavor of Dark Chocolate Nut Squares, a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
These Dark Chocolate Nut Squares combine the richness of dark chocolate with a mix of crunchy nuts, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for dessert or a midday snack, they are sure to impress!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Intense dark chocolate flavor that satisfies your sweet tooth
- Nutty crunch that adds texture and depth
- Easy to make and perfect for sharing
The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
Dark Chocolate Nut Squares are not just a dessert; they are an experience. Whether you're hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these squares provide a luxurious treat that everyone will love. Their rich flavor and satisfying crunch make them a standout choice for potlucks, parties, or a cozy night in with friends and family.
What sets these squares apart is their versatility. You can serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch, or enjoy them plain for a more rustic vibe. No matter how you present them, they are sure to impress and delight your guests.
A Quick and Simple Recipe
One of the best things about Dark Chocolate Nut Squares is how easy they are to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. This recipe is perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. The steps are straightforward, allowing you to focus on enjoying the process rather than getting bogged down by complicated techniques.
In less than an hour, you can have these delicious squares ready to serve. It's the ideal solution when you’re short on time but still want to create something special. Plus, the satisfaction of baking from scratch will make the end result even more rewarding.
Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate and Nuts
Dark chocolate is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, it can help improve heart health and boost mood. The higher the cocoa content, the more beneficial compounds it contains. Pairing dark chocolate with mixed nuts enhances the nutritional profile even further, providing healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Nuts like walnuts, almonds, and pecans are known for their heart-healthy properties and can aid in lowering cholesterol levels. By incorporating these ingredients into your dessert, you're not only treating yourself but also giving your body some nutritional love. Enjoying these squares can be a guilt-free indulgence, making them a smart choice for your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
For the Squares
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans) chopped
Make sure to use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan (8x8 inches).
Melt the Chocolate and Butter
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the dark chocolate chips and unsalted butter together, stirring until smooth.
Mix Wet Ingredients
Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add this to the chocolate mixture until just combined.
Fold in Nuts
Gently fold in the chopped mixed nuts into the batter.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Cut
Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares.
Enjoy these squares warm or at room temperature!
Storing Your Dark Chocolate Nut Squares
To maintain the freshness and flavor of your Dark Chocolate Nut Squares, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, but we doubt they'll last that long once you taste them! If you prefer to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their shelf life for up to two weeks.
If you choose to freeze them, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours. This way, you can savor your delicious homemade treats whenever the craving strikes!
Customizing Your Squares
Feel free to get creative with your Dark Chocolate Nut Squares! You can easily swap out the mixed nuts for your favorites—try adding hazelnuts for a delightful twist or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top to enhance the chocolate flavor. For a fruity touch, consider adding dried cranberries or cherries to the batter.
If you want to experiment with flavors, consider incorporating spices like cinnamon or espresso powder for an extra depth of taste. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability, allowing you to make it uniquely yours while still delivering a satisfying treat.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but the flavor will be sweeter and less intense.
→ How should I store the squares?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
→ Can I freeze these squares?
Absolutely! They can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well.
→ What nuts work best in this recipe?
Any combination of nuts works well, but walnuts and pecans add great flavor and texture.
Dark Chocolate Nut Squares
Indulge in the rich, decadent flavor of Dark Chocolate Nut Squares, a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Sweet Bakes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 16 squares
What You'll Need
For the Squares
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans) chopped
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan (8x8 inches).
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the dark chocolate chips and unsalted butter together, stirring until smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add this to the chocolate mixture until just combined.
Gently fold in the chopped mixed nuts into the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 3g