Brownies are already irresistible, but imagine them infused with the rich flavors of Middle Eastern kunafa and pistachios. These Dubai Pistachio Kunafa Brownies are the ultimate fusion dessert—decadent, fudgy brownies layered with crispy, golden kunafa and topped with fragrant pistachios. Every bite is a perfect balance of gooey chocolate, crunchy pastry, and nutty goodness. Trust me, you’re going to love this one!
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Why You’ll Love Dubai Pistachio Kunafa Brownies
Unique Fusion: Combines classic fudgy brownies with the crunch of kunafa and the richness of pistachios.
Textural Perfection: Crispy kunafa on top, chewy brownie in the middle, and crunchy pistachios for the perfect bite.
Luxurious Flavor: Infused with Middle Eastern flavors, making it a show-stopping dessert.
Easy to Make: No complicated steps—just layer, bake, and enjoy!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for Ramadan, Eid, or when you want to impress guests with something special.
Ingredients in Dubai Pistachio Kunafa Brownies
Kunafa Dough: This shredded phyllo dough crisps up beautifully and adds a signature crunch.
Butter: Used to coat the kunafa for that golden, crispy texture.
Brownie Batter: Your favorite homemade or store-bought brownie mix.
Pistachios: Finely chopped for a nutty, aromatic finish.
Sugar Syrup (Optional): A light drizzle of sugar syrup enhances the Middle Eastern flavors.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Prepare the Kunafa: Toss the shredded kunafa with melted butter until evenly coated.
Layer the Kunafa: Spread half of the kunafa dough in a greased baking pan and press it down gently.
Add the Brownie Batter: Pour your brownie batter over the kunafa layer, spreading it evenly.
Top with More Kunafa: Sprinkle the remaining kunafa over the brownie batter for an extra crispy top.
Bake to Perfection: Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the brownies are set and the kunafa is golden brown.
Add the Finishing Touches: Once out of the oven, drizzle with sugar syrup (if using) and sprinkle with chopped pistachios.
Cool and Serve: Let it cool slightly before slicing into squares. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
How to Serve Dubai Pistachio Kunafa Brownies
With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or pistachio ice cream takes it to the next level.
Drizzled with Chocolate: Melted chocolate or Nutella makes these brownies even more indulgent.
With Arabic Coffee: The perfect pairing for a rich, slightly bitter contrast.
Additional Tips
Use Fresh Kunafa: For the crispiest texture, use fresh kunafa dough if possible.
Don’t Overbake: Brownies should be fudgy, so check for doneness with a toothpick.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use pre-made kunafa dough?
A1: Yes! Just thaw it first and separate the strands before mixing with butter.
Q2: Can I use a boxed brownie mix?
A2: Absolutely! Just follow the package instructions and assemble as directed.
Q3: How do I reheat leftovers?
A3: A few seconds in the microwave will make them warm and gooey again.
Q4: Can I make this ahead of time?
A4: Yes, but for the best texture, assemble and bake just before serving.
Q5: Do I need to use sugar syrup?
A5: It’s optional, but it enhances the kunafa’s crispiness and Middle Eastern flavor.
Q6: Can I freeze these brownies?
A6: Yes! Wrap them well and freeze for up to a month.
Q7: What type of chocolate works best for the brownie batter?
A7: A rich dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate gives the best depth of flavor.
Q8: Can I use white chocolate instead?
A8: Yes! White chocolate brownies (blondies) work beautifully with kunafa and pistachios.
Q9: How can I make it extra crunchy?
A9: Bake the kunafa layer for 5 minutes before adding the brownie batter.
Q10: What’s the best way to cut these brownies without crumbling?
A10: Let them cool completely and use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean slices.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a fan of rich, gooey brownies and crispy kunafa, Dubai Pistachio Kunafa Brownies are about to become your new favorite dessert. The contrast of textures and flavors makes them unforgettable. Try them once, and they’ll be a staple in your dessert rotation!
Print
Dubai Pistachio Kunafa Brownies
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Description
These Pistachio Kunafa Brownies bring together rich, fudgy brownies, a crispy kunafa layer, and a smooth pistachio spread, all topped with luxurious melted chocolate. A fusion of Middle Eastern and classic dessert flavors, this decadent treat is perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Brownie:
- 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (180g) light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (40g) cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp (2g) baking powder
- 1/2 cup (60g) flour
- 1/8 tsp salt
For the Pistachio Kunafa and Chocolate Layer:
- 3/4 cup (200g) pistachio spread
- 1 cup (90g) kunafa pastry, shredded
- 1 tbsp butter or ghee (for roasting kunafa)
- 1 cup (180g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate
- Slivered pistachios, for garnish
Instructions
1. Bake the Brownies:
- Preheat oven to 180ºC/350ºF. Line a 7-inch square baking pan with parchment paper and grease it.
- In a mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar with an electric beater until pale. Add eggs and vanilla extract, beating for another 3 minutes.
- Sift in cocoa powder, baking powder, flour, and salt. Fold gently until fully combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean with a few moist crumbs. Let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Pistachio Kunafa Spread:
- Shred kunafa pastry into small 1-2 cm pieces.
- In a pan, melt butter or ghee, then add kunafa. Toast over medium heat, stirring, until golden brown. Let it cool.
- Warm the pistachio spread in the microwave for 30 seconds (if thick). Mix it with the toasted kunafa.
3. Melt Chocolate & Assemble:
- Microwave chocolate in 15-30 second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
- Spread the pistachio kunafa layer over the cooled brownie.
- Pour melted chocolate over the top, spreading evenly. Garnish with slivered pistachios.
- Chill for 5-10 minutes until set, then slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or refrigerate for a firmer texture.
- Use white chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter variation.
- Swap pistachio spread for hazelnut spread for a unique twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 50mg