Dive into the world of decadence with this Salted Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Slice recipe. This dish brings together the richness of dark chocolate, the crunchiness of pistachios, and the perfect seasoning of sea salt to make a dessert that's truly unforgettable.
While most of the ingredients like butter, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and all-purpose flour are common pantry staples, you might need to visit your local supermarket for some special items. The star ingredients - chocolate and pistachios - need to be of high quality for the best flavor. For the chocolate, opt for a good quality dark chocolate bar that you'll chunk yourself, rather than using chocolate chips. As for the pistachios, raw and unsalted ones are the best to use as they will be salted in the recipe.
Ingredients for the Salted Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Slice
Unsalted butter: This gives your slice the rich, creamy base that makes every bite melt in your mouth.
Light or dark brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness to your slice.
Egg: Acts as the binding agent in your slice.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors of other ingredients.
All-purpose flour: It's the foundation of your slice providing structure.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
Chocolate: Dark chocolate chunks provide bitter notes to contrast the sweetness.
Pistachios: They add a delightful crunch and unique flavor.
Coarse sugar: Gives an additional sweet crunch on top of your slice.
Sea salt: Sprinkled on top, enhances the sweet and savory flavours.
One reader, Allix Leyva says:
This salted pistachio chocolate chunk slice recipe is a game-changer! The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy pistachios, and a hint of sea salt creates a perfect balance of flavors. The slices are easy to make and absolutely delicious. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delightful treat!
Mastering the Techniques for Salted Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Slice Recipe
How to prepare the dough: Mixing the butter and brown sugar until creamy, then adding the egg and vanilla extract, and finally incorporating the flour, salt, chocolate, and pistachios until a dough forms.
How to shape the dough into logs: Dividing the dough into two portions and shaping each into an 8-inch log, about 2½ inches in diameter.
How to chill the dough: Wrapping the logs in plastic wrap and chilling them in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours and up to 5 days.
How to slice the dough into cookies: Cutting each log into 12 equally thick cookies before placing them on the baking sheets.
How to bake the cookies: Preheating the oven to 350 degrees F and baking the cookies for 12 to 14 minutes until they are brown around the edges.
How to cool the cookies: Allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How To Make Salted Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Slice
Taste the upgraded taste and texture of these salted pistachio cookies in combination with dark chocolate. Something you’ll want more and more.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ¾cupunsalted butter,softened to room temperature
- ⅔cuplight or dark brown sugar,packed
- 1large egg,at room temperature
- 1½tsppure vanilla extract
- 2cupsall purpose flour,spoon & leveled
- ½tspsalt
- 6ozchocolate,coarsely chopped
- ¾cuppistachios,finely chopped, divided
- coarse sugar,for rolling
- sea salt,for sprinkling on top
Instructions
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In a large bowl using a hand-held mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter and brown sugar together on medium-high speed until combined and cream for about 2 minutes.
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Beat in egg and vanilla extract at high speed. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed, and continue to beat until fully combined.
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At low speed, beat in the flour and salt until combined. Switch to high speed and beat in most of the chocolate and ⅔ cup of the pistachios until combined.
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Turn the dough out onto a floured work surface and, with floured hands, divide or cut into two. Shape each half into an 8-inch log, about 2½ inches in diameter.
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Roll each log in a mix of coarse sugar and the leftover pistachios. Tightly wrap the logs in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours and up to 5 days.
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Chilling is mandatory for this cookie dough.
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.
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Slice each log into 12 equally thick cookies and place cookies on baking sheets about 2 inches apart. If desired, sprinkle each with sea salt.
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Bake the cookies for 12 to 14 minutes or until brown around the edges. Remove from the oven and allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Cookies will stay fresh covered at room temperature for 1 week.
Nutrition
- Calories: 165.06kcal
- Fat: 9.92g
- Saturated Fat: 5.20g
- Trans Fat: 0.23g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.20g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.90g
- Carbohydrates: 17.96g
- Fiber: 1.10g
- Sugar: 8.56g
- Protein: 2.48g
- Cholesterol: 23.00mg
- Sodium: 81.94mg
- Calcium: 14.16mg
- Potassium: 86.76mg
- Iron: 0.92mg
- Vitamin A: 52.66µg
- Vitamin C: 0.22mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Salted Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Slice
When incorporating the chocolate and pistachios into the dough, make sure to chop them into small, even pieces. This will ensure that each slice gets an equal distribution of these ingredients, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the cookie. Additionally, when chilling the dough, make sure it is tightly wrapped to prevent it from drying out. This will keep the dough moist and easy to slice.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Delectable Treat
Prepare the ingredients: Gather all the ingredients and measure them out before starting to save time during the recipe preparation.
Chop in advance: Pre-chop the pistachios and chocolate chunks ahead of time to streamline the process when making the recipe.
Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly chop the pistachios and chocolate chunks to the desired size, saving time and effort.
Chill dough in advance: Prepare the dough in advance and chill it in the refrigerator, so it's ready to slice and bake when needed, saving time on the day of baking.
Use pre-cut parchment paper: Pre-cut parchment paper into squares or circles to line the baking sheets in advance, making it easier to place the cookie dough and saving time during the baking process.
Substitute Ingredients For Salted Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Slice Recipe
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the recipe, while also adding a hint of coconut flavor.
light or dark brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a 1:1 replacement for brown sugar and adds a subtle caramel-like flavor to the recipe.
all purpose flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative to all-purpose flour and adds a nutty flavor to the recipe.
chocolate - Substitute with cacao nibs: Cacao nibs can be used as a healthier alternative to chocolate chunks, providing a rich, chocolatey flavor with added crunch.
pistachios - Substitute with almonds: Almonds can be used as a substitute for pistachios, providing a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the recipe.
sea salt - Substitute with Himalayan pink salt: Himalayan pink salt can be used as a substitute for sea salt, providing a similar level of saltiness and adding a hint of mineral flavor to the recipe.
Presenting the Perfect Pistachio Chocolate Slice
Elevate the cookie slices: Arrange the cookie slices on a beautiful platter, ensuring they are evenly spaced and presented in an appealing manner.
Garnish with chocolate and pistachios: Sprinkle the platter with additional chocolate chunks and pistachio pieces to add a pop of color and texture to the presentation.
Add a touch of sea salt: Lightly sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the cookie slices just before serving to enhance the flavors and add a sophisticated touch.
Serve with a side of whipped cream or ice cream: Accompany the cookie slices with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of premium vanilla ice cream to provide a delightful contrast in taste and temperature.
Use elegant serving ware: Opt for sophisticated and elegant serving ware, such as fine china plates or decorative platters, to enhance the overall presentation of the salted pistachio chocolate chunk slices.
Incorporate edible flowers: Consider adding a few edible flowers, such as pansies or violets, as a delicate and visually stunning garnish to elevate the presentation and add a touch of elegance.
Essential Tools for Making Salted Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Slice
- Hand-held mixer or stand mixer: Used to cream the butter and sugar, and to mix the cookie dough.
- Paddle attachment: Used with the stand mixer to beat the butter and sugar together.
- Large bowl: Used to mix the ingredients together.
- Floured work surface: Surface for shaping the cookie dough logs.
- Plastic wrap: Used to wrap and chill the cookie dough logs.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Used to line the baking sheets for baking the cookies.
- Baking sheets: Used to bake the cookies in the oven.
- Wire rack: Used to cool the baked cookies.
Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Pistachio Chocolate Slice
Storing: store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To keep them extra fresh, place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies. The bread will absorb any excess moisture and keep the cookies crisp.
Freezing: freeze the cookie dough logs or individual baked cookies for up to 3 months. Here's how:
- For the dough logs: wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, let the logs thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then slice and bake as directed.
- For baked cookies: place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, let the cookies thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Pro tip: if you want to enjoy a warm, freshly baked cookie whenever the craving strikes, freeze the unbaked sliced cookies on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, place the frozen cookies on a lined baking sheet and bake for an extra 1-2 minutes. No need to thaw first!
How To Reheat Leftover Pistachio Chocolate Slice
To reheat leftover salted pistachio chocolate chunk slices, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they're warmed through and the chocolate is slightly melted. This method will help restore the crispy texture of the slices while keeping the center soft and gooey.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the slice, as it may cause the chocolate to burn and the pistachios to become soggy.
For a crispy exterior and a soft interior, you can also reheat the slices in a skillet. Place a slice in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and cover with a lid. Heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. The lid will help trap the heat and ensure even reheating.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your salted pistachio chocolate chunk slices. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the slices in the basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the slices are crispy on the outside and warm on the inside.
For a quick and easy method, you can also enjoy the slices at room temperature. Simply take them out of the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving, allowing them to come to room temperature naturally. This method works well if you prefer a softer, chewier texture.
Surprising Fact About Salted Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Slice
The pistachio is a member of the cashew family and is known for its unique green color. It is one of the oldest flowering nut trees, with evidence of its existence dating back to 7000 BC. Pistachios are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, including healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. They are also a good source of protein, making them a great addition to a balanced diet. So, next time you enjoy a salted pistachio chocolate chunk slice, remember that you're also benefiting from the nutritional value of pistachios.
Is Making Salted Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Slice at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this salted pistachio chocolate chunk slice recipe is quite favorable. The ingredients, such as butter, brown sugar, flour, and pistachios, are relatively affordable and commonly found in households. The addition of chocolate may slightly increase the cost, but it's a worthwhile investment for a delightful treat. Considering the yield and the satisfaction it brings, the overall verdict for this recipe is a solid 9. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly indulgence.
Is This Decadent Treat Healthy or Unhealthy?
This recipe for salted pistachio chocolate chunk slices, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients contributing to its indulgent nature are:
- High amounts of butter and sugar, which are calorie-dense and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in excess
- Refined all-purpose flour, which lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain alternatives
- Chocolate, which is high in sugar and fat (although it does contain some beneficial antioxidants)
However, the recipe does include some redeeming ingredients, such as pistachios, which are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of butter and sugar used, or replace some of the butter with a healthier alternative like Greek yogurt or mashed avocado
- Swap out half or all of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat pastry flour, almond flour, or oat flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content
- Choose dark chocolate with a high cocoa percentage (70% or above) to maximize the antioxidant benefits and minimize the sugar content
- Increase the amount of pistachios used to boost the protein, fiber, and healthy fat content of the cookies
- Experiment with adding other healthy ingredients, such as dried fruit (e.g., cranberries or apricots), seeds (e.g., chia or flax), or even grated zucchini for added moisture and nutrients
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of these cookies that still satisfies your sweet tooth.
Editor's Opinion: Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
The salted pistachio chocolate chunk slice recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors, with a satisfying crunch from the pistachios. The use of coarse sugar and sea salt adds a delightful texture and enhances the overall taste. The recipe's clear instructions and precise measurements make it accessible for home bakers, and the resulting cookies are sure to impress with their rich, buttery flavor and indulgent chocolate chunks. This recipe is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
Enhance Your Salted Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Slice Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Salted Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Slice
Appetizers and Main Dishes That Go Well With This Decadent Slice
Why trust this Salted Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Slice Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delectable treat with a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of rich chocolate chunks and the nutty crunch of pistachios creates a delightful indulgence. The use of high-quality unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract ensures a rich and aromatic base. The addition of sea salt and coarse sugar provides a delightful contrast of sweet and salty notes. Trust the expertise behind this recipe to deliver a truly satisfying and irresistible dessert.
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