Introduction

Dubai Chocolate Brownies are a decadent twist on traditional brownies, featuring crispy kataifi pastry and creamy pistachio flavors layered beneath a smooth chocolate ganache. This unique dessert offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that’s sure to impress your guests.

This image shows several square dessert bars with three clear layers. The bottom layer is dark brown and looks dense and fudgy. The middle layer is a light yellow-green color with a rough, shredded texture. The top layer is a smooth, glossy chocolate that covers the bars and has swirls of lighter cream color on top, adding a decorative pattern. The bars are arranged loosely on a white marbled surface with some crumbs scattered around. One bar is partly bitten, showing all the layers inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

Cooking spray
1 (18- to 20-oz.) box chocolate brownie mix (such as Ghirardelli), plus ingredients called for on box

6 tbsp. unsalted butter
10 oz. kataifi, chopped into 1/2″ pieces (about 5 cups)

3 tbsp. tahini
1 1/2 c. pistachio cream (from 2 [7-oz.] jars), divided

2 c. (340 g.) milk chocolate chips
1/2 c. heavy cream

Instructions

Step 1: Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 325°F (165°C). Spray a 9″ x 9″ baking dish with cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two opposite sides for easy removal.

Step 2: In a large bowl, prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions. Transfer the batter to the prepared dish and smooth the top evenly.
Step 3: Bake the brownies for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a tester inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Allow the brownies to cool completely.
Step 4: While the brownies bake and cool, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the chopped kataifi and cook, stirring often. Reduce heat if kataifi darkens too quickly. Continue until the kataifi is deep golden, about 15 to 18 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 5: Fold the tahini and 1 1/4 cups plus 2 tablespoons of the pistachio cream into the warmed kataifi mixture. Let it cool while the brownies finish cooling.
Step 6: Spread the kataifi mixture evenly over the cooled brownies.
Step 7: Place the milk chocolate chips in a medium heatproof bowl. In a small pot over medium heat, warm the heavy cream until it just begins to bubble around the edges. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth and glossy to make ganache.

Step 8: Pour the ganache over the kataifi layer. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of pistachio cream over the ganache. Use a toothpick to swirl the pistachio cream through the ganache, taking care not to disturb the kataifi layer underneath. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped pistachios for garnish.
Step 9: Using the parchment overhang, lift the brownies out of the dish and transfer to a cutting board. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality pistachio cream for the best flavor. You can find it at specialty stores or substitute with pistachio butter combined with a little honey for sweetness.

If kataifi is unavailable, shredded phyllo dough can work as a substitute, though the texture will differ slightly.
For a nut-free version, omit the pistachio cream and tahini and add a sprinkle of toasted coconut instead.

Storage

Store brownies covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerated for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving to restore the ganache’s smooth texture. You can also gently warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if preferred warm.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up view of square dessert bars arranged neatly side by side on a white marbled surface. Each bar has three layers: a dark brown bottom layer that looks dense and fudgy, a thick middle layer in light brown with a rough texture suggesting a peanut butter or oat mixture, and a smooth glossy top layer of chocolate with light caramel-colored swirls gently mixed in. The bars have clean edges and the chocolate top is thick enough to hold the swirled patterns clearly. The lighting highlights the shiny top and rough middle layers, making them look rich and creamy. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the brownie base from scratch instead of using a mix?

Yes, you can prepare your favorite scratch brownie recipe instead of a boxed mix. Just be sure to bake in the same size pan and adjust baking time if needed to achieve similar thickness.

What is kataifi and where can I buy it?

Kataifi is a type of shredded phyllo dough commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean desserts. You can find it in Middle Eastern grocery stores, specialty markets, or online.