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Pistachio Kunafa Brownies Recipe

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4.5 from 104 reviews

These Pistachio Kunafa Brownies are a delightful fusion dessert combining fudgy chocolate brownies with a crispy, buttery kunafa topping, finished with a generous sprinkle of roasted pistachios. Perfect for those looking to enjoy a unique twist on a classic treat, these brownies offer rich chocolate flavor beneath a crunchy, nutty layer inspired by Middle Eastern pastry.

Ingredients

Brownie Layer:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Kunafa Layer:

  • 1 cup kunafa dough (shredded phyllo)
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • 2 tbsp sugar syrup (store-bought or homemade)

Topping:

  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (unsalted, roasted preferred)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and prevent sticking.
  2. Make Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt just until combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
  4. Spread Brownie Layer: Pour the prepared brownie batter into the lined baking pan and smooth the top evenly with a spatula.
  5. Prepare Kunafa Layer: In a separate bowl, combine the shredded kunafa dough with melted butter and sugar syrup, mixing thoroughly to ensure the strands are well coated.
  6. Top with Kunafa: Gently press the kunafa mixture evenly over the brownie batter, creating a uniform layer on top.
  7. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, indicating the brownies are cooked but still fudgy.
  8. Cool: Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan to set properly before slicing.
  9. Add Pistachios: Once cooled, sprinkle the chopped roasted unsalted pistachios generously over the top for a crunchy, nutty finish.

Notes

  • For best results, use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dessert.
  • You can make your own sugar syrup by boiling equal parts sugar and water until dissolved, then cooled.
  • Be careful not to overbake to keep the brownies moist and fudgy.
  • Allow the brownies to cool completely to ensure clean slicing and proper texture.
  • Substitute with other nuts like almonds or walnuts if pistachios are unavailable.