If you are a fan of desserts that offer a delightful blend of textures and rich flavors, you will absolutely love the Pistachio Kunafa Brownies Recipe. This innovative fusion dessert marries the crispy, golden shredded kunafa dough with the fudgy, chocolatey goodness of a classic brownie. Enhanced by the nutty sweetness of pistachios throughout, this treat is a captivating twist on Middle Eastern sweets that both intrigues and satisfies with each bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Pistachio Kunafa Brownies Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a vital role to create the perfect balance of crispy, chewy, nutty, and chocolatey sensations that make this dessert truly unforgettable.
- Shredded kunafa dough (1 cup): Provides that signature crisp and golden texture unique to kunafa desserts.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted, divided): Infuses richness and helps achieve both a tender brownie and crisp kunafa topping.
- Pistachio paste or finely ground pistachios (1/2 cup): Adds a deep, nutty flavor central to the recipe’s Middle Eastern charm.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the batter and balances the intense cocoa.
- Eggs (2 large, room temperature): Bind the ingredients together and provide structure for a fudgy brownie.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and adds warmth.
- All-purpose flour (1/3 cup): Gives the brownies their soft, tender crumb.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/4 cup): Brings rich chocolate flavor to every bite.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Melts into pockets of gooey chocolate within the brownies.
- Chopped pistachios (1/2 cup): Adds crunch and beautiful color on top.
- Simple syrup (1/3 cup, optional): Adds moistness and a traditional touch of sweetness when drizzled over warm brownies.
How to Make Pistachio Kunafa Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Kunafa Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Toss the finely chopped shredded kunafa dough with half of the melted butter until it’s fully coated—this step ensures the kunafa crisps evenly and beautifully in the oven. Spread this mixture evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until you see a lovely golden hue. This crispy base is the all-important crunch layer of your Pistachio Kunafa Brownies Recipe.
Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
While the kunafa is baking, whisk together the remaining melted butter and sugar in a separate bowl until smooth and well combined. Then add in the room temperature eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is creamy. This creates the luscious batter that fully complements the crunchy kunafa base.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold In
Next, add the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt to the wet mixture and stir just until everything is blended. Don’t over-mix — you want to keep the brownies soft and tender. Finally, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and the pistachio paste or ground pistachios, folding gently to keep all those textures intact.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the rich brownie batter evenly over the baked kunafa layer, spreading carefully to cover the entire surface. Sprinkle chopped pistachios generously on top to add an irresistible crunch and make the dessert visually stunning. Bake for 22 to 26 minutes or until the edges are set and the center retains a slightly fudgy texture when tested with a toothpick. This careful bake time is what ensures the perfect fudgy yet crisp contrast that sets this Pistachio Kunafa Brownies Recipe apart.
Step 5: Add the Final Touch
Once you remove the brownies from the oven, optionally drizzle the surface with simple syrup while they are still warm. This step adds moisture and an authentic kunafa sweetness but can be skipped for a more balanced dessert profile. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing neatly into squares to enjoy.
How to Serve Pistachio Kunafa Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance these brownies with a sprinkle of extra chopped pistachios for vibrant color and crunch. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate can also elevate the presentation and add a contrasting sweetness.
Side Dishes
Serve your Pistachio Kunafa Brownies Recipe alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness. A cup of strong Arabic coffee or mint tea pairs beautifully with the nutty, chocolate layers and makes for an inviting dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, layer small brownie squares in clear glass parfait cups alternating with whipped cream and crushed pistachios to create an elegant dessert parfait inspired by the classic brownie. Alternatively, try plating with a drizzle of rosewater syrup or garnishing with edible rose petals to enhance the Middle Eastern vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping them covered prevents the crisp kunafa layer from becoming soggy while maintaining that fudgy brownie texture inside.
Freezing
If you want to preserve your Pistachio Kunafa Brownies Recipe longer, cut them into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Reheating
To revive the warm crispy and fudgy textures, gently reheat brownies in a 300°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes or until just warmed through. Avoid the microwave to keep the kunafa layer from becoming chewy.
FAQs
Can I substitute regular nuts for pistachios?
While pistachios give the Pistachio Kunafa Brownies Recipe its signature flavor and color, you can use almonds or walnuts if needed. The texture and sweetness may slightly differ, but it will still be delicious.
Is it necessary to use shredded kunafa dough?
Yes, shredded kunafa dough is key to creating that distinctive crispy layer that sets this recipe apart from traditional brownies. You can find it in Middle Eastern grocery stores or online.
What if I don’t have pistachio paste?
If pistachio paste isn’t available, finely grind unsalted pistachios in a food processor to use instead. This keeps the nutty flavor fresh and vibrant in the batter.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
While the traditional recipe uses butter and eggs, you can experiment with vegan butter substitutes and flax eggs. Keep in mind texture and flavor differences, and it may take some trial to perfect.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
The edges should be set and starting to pull away from the sides of the pan, while the center should still be slightly fudgy. A toothpick inserted in the center may come out with a few moist crumbs—this is ideal for fudgy brownies.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say the Pistachio Kunafa Brownies Recipe is a total winner, blending beloved Middle Eastern flavors with classic brownie comfort. Whether you’re sharing with friends or indulging yourself, these brownies bring an exciting and irresistible twist to your dessert repertoire. Give it a try and watch it become an instant favorite!
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Pistachio Kunafa Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pistachio Kunafa Brownies are a delightful fusion dessert combining the crispy, buttery texture of traditional kunafa dough with rich, fudgy chocolate brownies studded with pistachios. Baked to perfection, they offer a unique Middle Eastern twist to a classic brownie, enhanced by a drizzle of simple syrup for an optional touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Kunafa Layer
- 1 cup shredded kunafa dough, thawed and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Brownie Batter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder, unsweetened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup pistachio paste or finely ground pistachios
Topping
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
Optional
- 1/3 cup simple syrup for soaking
Instructions
- Prepare Kunafa Layer: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Toss the chopped kunafa dough with 1/4 cup of melted butter until evenly coated. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside.
- Make Brownie Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Stir in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips and pistachio paste or ground pistachios gently.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the brownie batter evenly over the baked kunafa layer in the pan. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios evenly over the top. Bake for 22 to 26 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is still slightly fudgy.
- Finish and Cool: Remove from the oven and, while still warm, drizzle with simple syrup if using, to add traditional kunafa sweetness. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 9 pieces.
Notes
- Do not overbake to keep the brownies fudgy and moist.
- Simple syrup adds authentic kunafa sweetness but can be omitted for a more balanced, less sweet dessert.
- For best flavor, allow the brownies to rest overnight—the flavors deepen and develop.
