Pinocha Squares
Decadent chocolate nut squares with a buttery, chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter and add the light brown sugar, egg, and vanilla. Beat until fluffy.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt, then add to the first mixture.
- Mix in the semi-sweet chocolate bits and nuts.
- Spread the batter in an 8-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F for no longer than 30 minutes.
- Allow to cool, then cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar. If you don't have nuts on hand, you can substitute with seeds or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. Ensure your butter is melted but not hot to avoid cooking the egg when mixed. Adding a pinch of espresso powder can enhance the chocolate flavor, similar to what you'd find in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These squares are delightful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For a special touch, drizzle with chocolate sauce or serve alongside a slice of the White Chocolate Orange Dream Cookies for a sweet spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Pinocha Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pinocha Squares contains roughly 227 calories, with 0g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 570mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate bits with milk chocolate or even white chocolate for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level may change slightly, so adjust the sugar if necessary.
What can I use instead of eggs for a vegan option?
For a vegan alternative, you can replace the egg with a flax egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens before adding it to your mixture.
How do I know when the squares are done baking?
The Pinocha Squares are done when the edges start to pull away from the sides of the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as they should be soft and chewy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).