Description
Indulge in the rich fusion of Middle Eastern and classic dessert flavors with this Pistachio Kunafa Brownie. Featuring a crunchy layer of shredded kunafa dough beneath a fudgy brownie topped with sweetened condensed milk, crushed pistachios, and aromatic cardamom, this dessert offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Layer
- 1 box brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as per package instructions)
Kunafa Layer
- 1 cup shredded kunafa dough (kataifi)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Toppings
- 1/4 cup crushed pistachios
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
- Extra chopped pistachios for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a square baking pan according to the brownie mix package instructions to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Prepare Kunafa Layer: In a small bowl, combine the shredded kunafa dough with the melted butter and mix well to coat all strands evenly. Spread this buttered kunafa mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, gently pressing down to form a thin, compact layer.
- Make Brownie Batter: Prepare the brownie batter following the directions on the package carefully, mixing the eggs, oil, water, and brownie mix until smooth.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the prepared brownie batter evenly over the layer of kunafa dough, spreading to the edges. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, indicating it’s perfectly baked.
- Add Toppings: Once out of the oven and while still warm, drizzle sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top. Sprinkle with crushed pistachios and, if desired, dust with ground cardamom for an aromatic finish.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the dessert to cool completely before slicing into squares. Garnish each piece with additional chopped pistachios and serve slightly warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, replace the boxed brownie mix with your favorite homemade fudgy brownie recipe.
- To enhance crunchiness, you can lightly toast the kunafa dough before mixing it with butter and baking.
- This dessert is best enjoyed slightly warm or at room temperature to fully appreciate the textures.
