Description
Pistachio Kunafa Brownies are a decadent Middle Eastern fusion dessert combining rich, fudgy brownies with crispy kunafa dough, aromatic cardamom, and a luscious pistachio topping. Drizzled with sweetened condensed milk and optionally infused with rose water, these brownies offer a unique, indulgent twist on traditional treats.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Base
- 1 box (18–19 oz) brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as directed on the box)
Kunafa Topping
- 1 cup kunafa dough (kataifi)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Finishing Touches
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 teaspoon rose water (optional)
- Extra chopped pistachios for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan and Brownie Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan thoroughly. Prepare the brownie batter according to the package instructions, incorporating the eggs, oil, and water as directed. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Mix Kunafa Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the kunafa dough with the melted butter, sugar, chopped pistachios, and ground cardamom. Gently toss the mixture to ensure the kunafa strands and pistachios are evenly coated with butter and sugar for a crisp, fragrant topping.
- Assemble and Bake: Sprinkle the kunafa mixture evenly over the brownie batter layer in the pan. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached, indicating the brownies are perfectly baked.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and Rose Water: Remove the brownies from the oven while still warm. Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top to soak into the warm brownie, enhancing its moisture and sweetness. If desired, mix the rose water into the condensed milk before drizzling to add a subtle floral aroma.
- Cool and Garnish: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan to set the layers and flavors. Once cooled, garnish the top with extra chopped pistachios to add crunch and a vibrant visual appeal. Slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- You can use homemade brownie batter instead of a boxed mix for a personalized flavor and texture.
- For a crunchier kunafa topping, broil the brownies for the last 2 to 3 minutes of baking while closely monitoring to prevent burning.
- Rose water is optional but adds an authentic Middle Eastern floral note that complements the pistachios beautifully.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
