Dubai Pistachio Kunafa Brownies: A Decadent Middle Eastern–Inspired Dessert

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Dubai Pistachio Kunafa Brownies are a luxurious fusion dessert that brings together the best of two worlds: rich, fudgy chocolate brownies and the crisp, buttery elegance of traditional kunafa. This recipe was inspired by the bold dessert culture of Dubai, where classic Middle Eastern flavors are often elevated with modern twists. The contrast between the dense brownie base and the crunchy kunafa topping creates a truly memorable texture in every bite.

What makes this dessert especially appealing is its balance. The sweetness of the brownie is offset by the nutty depth of pistachios and the subtle richness of butter-soaked kataifi pastry. I tested this recipe several times and found that lightly toasting the kunafa before baking enhances both flavor and crunch. These brownies are perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or when you want to impress with something unique yet comforting. They look striking, taste indulgent, and feel special without being overly complicated to prepare.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unsalted butter forms the base of both the brownie and the kunafa topping. It provides richness and ensures a tender crumb in the brownies while helping the kunafa achieve a crisp, golden finish.

Dark chocolate is essential for achieving a deep, intense cocoa flavor. Using good-quality chocolate results in a richer brownie with a smooth texture.

Granulated sugar sweetens the brownie batter and contributes to its slightly crackled top once baked.

Brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle caramel note that complements the chocolate and pistachio flavors.

Eggs bind the batter and give the brownies structure, creating a dense yet soft interior.

All-purpose flour provides just enough structure without making the brownies cakey.

Cocoa powder intensifies the chocolate flavor and deepens the color of the brownie base.

Vanilla extract rounds out the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Salt balances the sweetness and sharpens the chocolate notes.

Kunafa pastry, also known as kataifi, creates the signature crispy topping. When shredded and baked with butter, it delivers a delicate crunch.

Shelled pistachios add nuttiness, color, and a distinctly Middle Eastern character to the dessert.

Sweetened condensed milk lightly binds the kunafa layer and adds a gentle creaminess.

Directions

Preheat the oven to 180°C and line a square baking pan with parchment paper. Begin by melting the butter and dark chocolate together over gentle heat, stirring until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly. In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and brown sugar, then whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture looks glossy.

Slowly pour in the melted chocolate mixture, stirring continuously. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then fold gently until just combined. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface.

In a separate bowl, shred the kunafa pastry and toss it with melted butter until evenly coated. Lightly toast it in a skillet over medium heat until golden. Remove from heat and mix in the chopped pistachios and sweetened condensed milk. Spread this mixture evenly over the brownie batter.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the brownie is set but still slightly soft in the center. Allow to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean layers.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately nine generous brownies. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, with a baking time of 35 minutes, making the total time just under one hour.

Storage/reheating

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days. Reheat briefly in a low oven if you prefer a warm brownie, but note that the kunafa topping is best enjoyed fresh and crisp.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is highly adaptable. You can use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter profile, though the result will be less intense. For added aroma, a small amount of rose water or orange blossom water can be mixed into the kunafa layer.

If pistachios are unavailable, almonds or hazelnuts make good substitutes, though the flavor will differ slightly. You can also drizzle the finished brownies with melted chocolate or a light sugar syrup for extra indulgence.

For a festive presentation, garnish with finely ground pistachios or edible gold dust. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar slightly in the brownie base while keeping the kunafa layer unchanged.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

These brownies are rich and indulgent, providing energy from carbohydrates and fats, along with protein from eggs and nuts. Pistachios contribute healthy fats and minerals. Due to their richness, these brownies are best enjoyed in moderation.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Kunafa Texture
Toast the kunafa lightly before baking to ensure maximum crunch.

Chocolate Quality
Use high-quality chocolate for a smoother, more flavorful brownie.

Cooling Time
Allow the brownies to cool fully to achieve clean layers when slicing.

Balanced Sweetness
Dark chocolate helps prevent the dessert from becoming overly sweet.

FAQs

What is kunafa pastry?

Kunafa pastry is finely shredded phyllo dough commonly used in Middle Eastern desserts.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made a day in advance, though the topping is crispiest on the first day.

Can I freeze these brownies?

Freezing is not recommended, as the kunafa topping may lose its texture.

Are these brownies very sweet?

They are rich but balanced, especially when made with dark chocolate.

Can I make this recipe without nuts?

Yes, you can omit the pistachios, though they add distinctive flavor.

What pan size works best?

A square pan ensures even layers and easy slicing.

Can I add syrup like traditional kunafa?

A light drizzle is optional but not necessary for flavor.

How do I keep the kunafa crunchy?

Avoid covering the brownies while they are still warm.

Can I use store-bought brownie mix?

Yes, but homemade batter gives better texture and flavor.

What occasions suit this dessert?

They are ideal for celebrations, dinner parties, and festive gatherings.

Conclusion

Dubai Pistachio Kunafa Brownies are an elegant fusion dessert that showcases bold flavors and contrasting textures. Combining fudgy chocolate brownies with crisp, pistachio-studded kunafa creates a show-stopping treat that feels both modern and rooted in tradition. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to explore Middle Eastern-inspired desserts with a contemporary twist.

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