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Pistachio Kunafa Brownies

Pistachio Kunafa Brownies

  • Author: David Andersson
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 12 squares 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

To fully appreciate the genius behind this creation, it helps to understand how these contrasting culinary components work together. Essentially, this modern confection is a hybrid dessert that seamlessly fuses a traditional American chocolate square with the textures of a classic Levantine pastry. Instead of relying purely on a uniform, cake-like crumb, this specialized bar is built in distinct, contrasting strata.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Brownie Base

  • ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ⅓ cup (40 g) cocoa powder
  • ½ cup (65 g) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder

For the Kunafa Layer

  • 2 cups shredded kunafa (kataifi dough), thawed if frozen
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons sugar

Pistachio Topping

  • ½ cup pistachio paste (or finely ground pistachios mixed with a little honey)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios
  • Optional: drizzle of sweet syrup or honey

Instructions

1. Prepare the Brownie Batter

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan.
  2. Melt butter, then whisk in sugar.
  3. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until glossy.
  4. Stir in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined.
  5. Pour into prepared pan and smooth evenly.

2. Prepare Kunafa Layer

  1. Toss shredded kunafa with melted butter and sugar until evenly coated.
  2. Spread gently over brownie batter in an even layer.
  3. Press lightly so it adheres.

3. Bake

  1. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until brownie is set and kunafa is golden and crispy on top.
  2. Let cool completely before adding topping.

4. Add Pistachio Layer

  1. Spread pistachio paste evenly over cooled kunafa layer.
  2. Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top.
  3. Drizzle lightly with honey or syrup if desired.

Notes

These Pistachio Kunafa Brownies are a luxurious fusion dessert that combines rich, fudgy chocolate with crisp golden kunafa and a creamy pistachio finish. They’re perfect for special occasions, festive gatherings, or whenever you want an indulgent treat with a Middle Eastern twist. For the best texture contrast, allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing and serving.

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 square
  • Calories: 420 kcal

Keywords: fudgy kataifi chocolate bars, middle eastern fusion dessert squares, crispy pistachio brownie recipe

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Find it online: https://recipesmaria.com/pistachio-kunafa-brownies-recipe/