Dubai Chocolate Brownies with Pistachio Tahini Crunch

Introduction

These Dubai Chocolate Brownies marry rich, fudgy cocoa with Middle Eastern flair for a dessert that’s both familiar and delightfully unexpected. The pistachio paste and tahini add a nutty depth while toasted kataifi brings a crisp, caramelized crunch on top. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight treat yet striking enough for guests. If you love experimenting with brownie flavors, try a different twist like our Biscoff brownies for inspiration.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

Dubai Chocolate Brownies are a perfect balance of quick comfort baking and showstopper presentation. The method keeps steps easy: melt, mix, bake, and garnish, so you can focus on textures rather than complicated techniques. Pistachio paste folds in to create ribbons of bright green flavor while tahini lends a silky, slightly savory background that highlights chocolate. Sprinkling toasted kataifi over the top transforms the surface into a crispy, lace like layer that contrasts the soft interior. This dessert is great for gatherings because it looks impressive but requires minimal hands on time. If you want a different snack to serve alongside, consider pairing with a delicate cookie such as our chewy maple cookies dipped in white chocolate for a mix of textures.

Flavor and Texture

The chocolate profile here is deep and slightly bittersweet thanks to a full cup of cocoa powder balanced with generous sugar. Butter and eggs give a classic, dense brownie crumb that stays moist even after cooling. Pistachio paste adds buttery nuttiness and a touch of color, while tahini provides a subtle sesame warmth that complements chocolate rather than overpowering it. Toasted kataifi threads bake into crisp, golden shards that crack delightfully when you bite into a square. Overall the dessert walks a pleasant line between chewy, fudgy, and crunchy.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup pistachio paste
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1 cup toasted kataifi

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and sugar together, stirring until combined.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Fold in pistachio paste and tahini until evenly mixed.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
8. Sprinkle the toasted kataifi over the batter.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
10. Allow to cool in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.

Tips for Best Results

Use room temperature eggs so they emulsify smoothly into the butter and sugar for an even texture. Toast the kataifi gently until golden and let it cool before sprinkling to preserve crispness during baking. If your pistachio paste is very stiff, warm it slightly so it blends without overmixing the batter. Avoid overbaking; brownies continue to set as they cool, and a slightly moist center yields the best fudgy bite. For an extra glossy top, tap the pan gently on the counter before adding kataifi to release any large air bubbles.

Storage and Make Ahead

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days for best texture, or refrigerate up to five days if you prefer a firmer slice. Separate layers with parchment to protect the kataifi crunch when stacking squares. You can prepare the batter a day ahead and bake the next day, but add the kataifi and bake just before serving to keep the topping crisp. Rewarm individual squares briefly in a low oven for a fresh out of the oven feel.

Final Thought

These brownies deliver chocolate comfort with a creative twist that feels both luxurious and approachable. They’re ideal when you want to serve something memorable without a lengthy recipe. Whether for a dinner party or a cozy night in, they invite sharing and second helpings.

Conclusion

For more variations and the original inspiration behind this style, check out the Easy Dubai Chocolate Brownie Recipe from Love to be in the Kitchen.

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