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This extraordinary fusion dessert marries the indulgence of fudgy American brownies with the exotic crunch of Middle Eastern kunafa. The contrast between the deeply chocolatey base and the crisp, syrup-soaked kunafa topping studded with pistachios creates an unforgettable textural experience. The fragrant floral notes from traditional rose and orange blossom waters elevate this treat beyond ordinary desserts. Perfect for special gatherings or when you want to transform a familiar favorite into something truly spectacular.
Ingredient Selection Guide
- Unsalted butter (1 cup / 226g): Provides rich flavor and controls saltiness.
- Granulated sugar (1 1/4 cups / 250g): Sweetens and contributes to a fudgy texture.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup / 100g): Adds moisture and depth of flavor.
- Large eggs (3): Provide structure and richness.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances chocolate flavors.
- All-purpose flour (3/4 cup / 90g): Forms the brownie base.
- Cocoa powder (1/2 cup / 50g): Adds deep chocolate flavor.
- Baking powder (1/2 tsp): Provides slight lift.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness.
- Chocolate chips (1/2 cup / 85g): Intensifies chocolate richness.
- Shredded phyllo dough (kunafa) (150g): Creates the signature crispy topping.
- Pistachios (1/2 cup / 60g): Bright green, unsalted pistachios for flavor and presentation.
- Melted butter (1/3 cup / 75g): Coats kunafa for crisp texture.
- Granulated sugar (2 tbsp): Helps crisp kunafa.
- Rose water (1 tsp): Adds floral depth.
- Orange blossom water (1 tsp): Complements Middle Eastern flavors.
- Water (1/2 cup / 120ml): Base for syrup.
- Sugar (1/3 cup / 67g): Sweetens syrup.
- Lemon juice (1 tsp): Prevents syrup crystallization.
Creating Perfect Brownies
- Crafting the Brownie Foundation:
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking pan with parchment paper. Melt butter and whisk with sugars until glossy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Building Perfect Flavor:
- Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold into the wet mixture, avoiding overmixing. Stir in chocolate chips, then spread batter evenly in the pan.
- Creating the Kunafa Crown:
- Fluff kunafa strands to separate them, then toss with melted butter, sugar, and chopped pistachios. Add a light drizzle of floral waters for fragrance.
- Assembling the Final Creation:
- Bake the brownie base until just set. Remove from oven and immediately top with the kunafa mixture, pressing gently. Return to oven until golden and crisp. Pour warm syrup over hot kunafa immediately.
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Elegant Serving Suggestions
For intimate gatherings, serve warm with a scoop of cardamom-infused vanilla ice cream. For large events, cut into smaller squares and pair with Turkish coffee, figs, and dried apricots.
Creative Adaptations
Chocolate Orange – Add orange zest to the brownie batter and increase orange blossom water in the syrup. Honey Pistachio – Use a honey-based syrup with a pinch of cinnamon. Rose Chocolate – Enhance rose water in both kunafa and syrup, finishing with dried rose petal garnish.
Keeping Fresh
Store loosely covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refrigerate for up to a week, then reheat in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to restore crispness. Freeze individually wrapped portions for longer storage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Where can I find shredded phyllo dough (kunafa pastry)?
- Shredded phyllo dough is available at Middle Eastern or Mediterranean grocery stores, often in the frozen section. It may be labeled as kataifi, kadaif, or kunafa pastry. If you can't find it, you can use very thinly sliced phyllo sheets as an alternative.
- → Are rose water and orange blossom water necessary?
- While they add authentic flavor to the kunafa component, they're optional. The dessert will still be delicious without them, just with a less floral and aromatic profile.
- → Can I make these Kunafa Brownies ahead of time?
- Yes, these brownies actually improve with time as the syrup has more opportunity to soak in. Make them a day ahead and store covered at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
- → How do I store leftover Kunafa Brownies?
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can warm individual portions briefly in the microwave before serving if desired.
- → Can I reduce the sweetness of this dessert?
- Yes, you can reduce the sugar in both the brownie base and the syrup by about 25% without compromising the structure. You can also drizzle less syrup over the top for a less sweet final product.