Pistachio Kunafa Brownies (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Brownie Base
01 -
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
02 -
1 cup granulated sugar
03 -
½ cup brown sugar
04 -
3 large eggs
05 -
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 -
1 cup all-purpose flour
07 -
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
08 -
½ teaspoon baking powder
09 -
½ teaspoon salt
10 -
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
→ Kunafa Topping
11 -
1 ½ cups shredded phyllo dough
12 -
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
13 -
¼ cup granulated sugar
14 -
½ cup pistachios, roughly chopped
15 -
1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
16 -
1 tablespoon orange blossom water (optional)
→ Syrup
17 -
½ cup water
18 -
½ cup granulated sugar
19 -
1 tablespoon lemon juice
20 -
1 teaspoon rose water (optional)
21 -
1 teaspoon orange blossom water (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
02 -
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Sift flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt into the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
03 -
Bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). Let the brownies cool for 10-15 minutes.
04 -
Gently fluff the shredded phyllo dough with your fingers and mix it with melted butter, sugar, and chopped pistachios. If using, add rose water and orange blossom water for extra flavor. Spread the kunafa mixture evenly over the cooled brownie base, pressing down gently.
05 -
Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the kunafa topping is golden and crispy.
06 -
In a small saucepan, combine water, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly. Remove from heat, then stir in rose and orange blossom waters, if using. Let it cool slightly.
07 -
Once the brownie has cooled, drizzle the syrup generously over the top. Let the syrup soak in before serving. Optionally, garnish with extra pistachios or shredded coconut.
# Notes:
01 -
These brownies combine the rich chocolate flavor of American-style brownies with the crispy, sweet elements of Middle Eastern kunafa for a unique fusion dessert.