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Pistachio Kunafa Brownies

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Pistachio Kunafa Brownies are an indulgent fusion dessert that blends fudgy brownies with crispy kunafa and nutty pistachios. Topped with a fragrant syrup, this luxurious treat offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. A unique twist on two beloved Middle Eastern desserts, these brownies are perfect for special occasions or a delightful after-dinner treat.

Ingredients

For the Brownie Base:

  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

  • 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar

  • 3 large eggs

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1/4 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp baking powder

  • 1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips or chunks (optional)

For the Kunafa Topping:

  • 1 1/2 cups (180g) kunafa dough (shredded phyllo dough or knafeh dough)

  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted

  • 1/4 cup (30g) pistachios, finely chopped

  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Syrup (Optional but recommended):

  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

  • 1 tbsp rose water or orange blossom water (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Syrup (Optional):

  1. Combine sugar, water, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).

  2. Remove from heat and stir in rose or orange blossom water. Let it cool.

Make the Brownie Base:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

  2. In a bowl, whisk melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.

  3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.

  4. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.

  5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.

  6. Stir in chocolate chips (optional).

  7. Pour brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.

Prepare the Kunafa Topping:

  1. In a separate bowl, mix kunafa dough with melted butter, chopped pistachios, and sugar.

  2. Sprinkle the kunafa mixture evenly over the brownie batter.

Bake the Brownies:

  1. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few crumbs are fine).

  2. If the kunafa topping starts to brown too quickly, cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking.

  3. Let the brownies cool for 10-15 minutes in the pan.

Add the Syrup:

  1. While the brownies are still warm, drizzle the cooled syrup over the top of the kunafa topping.

  2. Let the brownies cool completely before cutting into squares.

Notes

  • Nut-Free Version: Skip pistachios or use almonds, pecans, or omit them altogether for a nut-free version.

  • Chocolate Hazelnut Twist: Add a layer of chocolate hazelnut spread between the brownie and kunafa layers for extra creaminess.

  • Syrup Variations: Experiment with different floral waters like jasmine or lavender for a unique twist.

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