Description

Discover the indulgent fusion of Middle Eastern flavors and classic brownie decadence with this Pistachio Kunafa Brownie recipe. Layers of buttery shredded kataifi kunafa dough cradle a fudgy pistachio-infused chocolate brownie, all topped with a golden crisp kunafa layer and a drizzle of honey for added sweetness and shine. Perfectly balanced in texture and flavor, this dessert brings a unique twist to your baking repertoire with its delightful crunch and rich, nutty notes.

Ingredients

Scale

Kunafa Layer

200g shredded kataifi kunafa dough
100g melted unsalted butter
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Honey or simple syrup, for brushing
Chopped pistachios, for garnish

Brownie Batter

150g semi-sweet chocolate
85g unsalted butter (additional for chocolate mixture)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons pistachio paste or finely ground pistachios

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Prepare Kunafa Base: In a mixing bowl, toss the shredded kataifi kunafa dough with melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the dough is fully coated. Press half of this buttery kunafa mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a base layer.
Make Chocolate Pistachio Mixture: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the semi-sweet chocolate together with additional unsalted butter, stirring until smooth and fully combined. Remove from heat.
Combine Wet Ingredients: Whisk the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract into the melted chocolate mixture until smooth and creamy, ensuring the batter is well mixed.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and pistachio paste or finely ground pistachios into the chocolate mixture. Mix carefully to maintain the batter’s fudgy texture.
Assemble Layers: Pour the brownie batter evenly over the pressed kunafa base. Then, distribute the remaining buttered kunafa dough evenly over the top, pressing lightly so it adheres to the brownie layer.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until the center of the brownie is just set and the top kunafa is golden and crisp. Avoid overbaking to retain fudgy texture.
Finish and Garnish: Remove the baked kunafa brownie from the oven and brush the top lightly with honey or simple syrup to add gloss and subtle sweetness. Allow the dessert to cool completely before slicing into 9 squares.
Serve: Garnish each square with chopped pistachios to enhance texture and presentation. Serve slightly warm to enjoy the contrasting crunchy kunafa and moist brownie layers.

Notes

For an intensified pistachio flavor, swirl additional pistachio paste into the brownie batter before baking.
Avoid overbaking to keep the brownie fudgy and moist.
Serving slightly warm enhances the contrast between the crunchy kunafa and the rich brownie layers.
Use fresh pistachios for garnish to maximize nutty aroma and texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Middle Eastern Fusion