If you’re looking for a dessert that’s equal parts luxurious and easy to make, this Dubai brownie recipe is your answer. Inspired by the opulent flavors of the Middle East, it blends fudgy chocolate brownies with a creamy pistachio-kataifi filling and a crunchy topping—creating a show-stopping treat that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
This is a comprehensive guide about dubai brownie.
Key Takeaways
- Unique fusion of flavors: This Dubai brownie combines rich chocolate with nutty pistachios, sweet cream, and crispy kataifi for a one-of-a-kind taste.
- <>Simple ingredients, big impact: Despite its gourmet feel, the recipe uses accessible ingredients like cocoa powder, butter, eggs, and store-bought kataifi pastry.
- Perfect for special occasions: Ideal for dinner parties, Eid celebrations, or as a luxurious gift, this brownie impresses every time.
- Customizable to your taste: Swap pistachios for almonds or walnuts, or add a drizzle of caramel for extra sweetness.
- Easy step-by-step process: With clear instructions and no advanced techniques, even beginner bakers can nail this recipe.
- Stays fresh for days: Properly stored, these brownies stay moist and delicious for up to 5 days—perfect for meal prep or sharing.
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What Is a Dubai Brownie?
If you’ve never heard of a Dubai brownie, get ready to have your mind blown. This isn’t your average chocolate square—it’s a decadent, multi-layered dessert that’s taken social media and dessert lovers by storm. Originating from the UAE, the Dubai brownie is a modern twist on traditional Middle Eastern sweets, blending the deep richness of chocolate with the nutty, buttery flavors of pistachios and the delicate crunch of shredded phyllo (kataifi) pastry.
Imagine a fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth brownie base topped with a creamy, slightly sweet pistachio layer, all finished with a golden, crispy kataifi crust. It’s rich, indulgent, and visually stunning—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day. What makes the Dubai brownie so special isn’t just its taste, but the way it balances textures: soft, creamy, and crunchy all at once. It’s the kind of dessert that feels luxurious without requiring a professional kitchen or hours of prep.
Why You’ll Love This Dubai Brownie Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves chocolate but wants something more exciting than the usual brownie. It’s not overly complicated, yet it delivers a restaurant-quality experience right from your home oven. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a holiday, or just craving something sweet, this Dubai brownie hits all the right notes.
One of the best things about this recipe is how it brings together global flavors in one bite. The chocolate base gives you that classic comfort, while the pistachio cream adds a nutty, slightly floral note that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Then, the kataifi topping—crispy, golden, and buttery—adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft layers beneath. It’s a dessert that feels both familiar and exotic, making it perfect for adventurous eaters and traditional dessert lovers alike.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Dubai brownies are incredibly versatile. They’re a hit at Eid gatherings, Ramadan iftars, birthday parties, or even as a fancy afternoon treat with tea or coffee. Because they look so impressive, they’re also a great option for gifting—pack them in a cute box with a ribbon, and you’ve got a thoughtful, homemade present that’s sure to wow.
Beginner-Friendly and Reliable
Don’t let the fancy name scare you. This recipe is designed to be approachable, even if you’re not a seasoned baker. There’s no tempering chocolate, no fancy piping, and no hard-to-find tools. Just mix, bake, and assemble. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find at most grocery stores or online. With a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll have a dessert that looks and tastes like it came straight from a high-end patisserie.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk ingredients. The beauty of this Dubai brownie recipe is that it uses simple, high-quality components that work together to create something extraordinary. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Brownie Base
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Pistachio Cream Layer
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup (60g) finely ground pistachios (or pistachio butter for a smoother texture)
- 1/2 teaspoon rose water (optional, but adds a lovely floral note)
- A pinch of salt
For the Kataifi Topping
- 1 package (about 200g) kataifi pastry (available in Middle Eastern grocery stores or online)
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey or simple syrup (optional, for extra shine and sweetness)
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins
- A drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel
- A sprinkle of edible gold dust for a luxurious finish
- A few drops of orange blossom water instead of rose water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s get baking! This recipe is broken down into three main parts: the brownie base, the pistachio cream, and the kataifi topping. Each step is simple, but timing is key—so read through the instructions before you start.
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the brownies fudgy. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownie cool completely before adding the next layer.
Step 2: Make the Pistachio Cream
While the brownie cools, prepare the pistachio cream. In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the sweetened condensed milk, ground pistachios, rose water (if using), and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy. Let the mixture cool slightly—it should be thick but spreadable. If it’s too thick, add a splash of warm cream to loosen it.
Once the brownie is completely cool, spread the pistachio cream evenly over the top. Use a spatula to create a smooth, even layer. Place the pan in the refrigerator to set for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cream firm up and makes the next step easier.
Step 3: Prepare the Kataifi Topping
While the cream is setting, prepare the kataifi. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unwrap the kataifi pastry and gently separate the strands with your fingers—it should look like golden, shredded threads. In a bowl, toss the kataifi with melted butter and honey (if using) until evenly coated.
Spread the kataifi mixture evenly over the chilled pistachio layer. Press down lightly with your hands to compact it slightly—this helps it crisp up evenly. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the kataifi is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on it, as it can burn quickly.
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely. The kataifi will crisp up as it cools. Once cooled, sprinkle with chopped pistachios for extra texture and visual appeal.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire brownie slab out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and slice into 9 or 16 squares, depending on how large you like your portions. For clean cuts, wipe your knife with a damp cloth between slices.
Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled. These brownies pair beautifully with a cup of Arabic coffee, mint tea, or a glass of cold milk. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips for Success
Even the best recipes can benefit from a few insider tips. Here’s how to make sure your Dubai brownie turns out perfect every time:
- Use room temperature eggs: This helps the batter mix smoothly and creates a better texture.
- Don’t overbake the brownie: It should be slightly underbaked in the center for that fudgy, gooey texture.
- Chill before adding kataifi: A cold base prevents the cream from melting when the hot kataifi goes on top.
- Toast the pistachios: Lightly toasting the ground pistachios before adding them to the cream enhances their flavor.
- Let it cool completely: Rushing this step can cause the layers to slide or the kataifi to become soggy.
Conclusion
This Dubai brownie recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. From the first bite of rich chocolate to the creamy pistachio layer and the satisfying crunch of golden kataifi, every element works together to create something truly special. It’s a recipe that celebrates flavor, texture, and creativity, all while remaining surprisingly simple to make.
Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this Dubai brownie is sure to become a favorite. It’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply treating yourself to a little luxury. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to blow your mind—and everyone else’s—with this unforgettable dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Dubai brownie recipe without kataifi?
Yes, you can! If you can’t find kataifi, substitute it with crushed phyllo dough, toasted coconut flakes, or even a crumbled store-bought puff pastry. The key is to maintain that crispy, buttery topping.
Can I use frozen pistachios?
Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before grinding. Fresh or frozen, the flavor will be rich and nutty—perfect for the cream layer.
How long do Dubai brownies last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these brownies stay fresh for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the brownie base and ensure your kataifi is certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Is rose water necessary?
Rose water adds a lovely floral note, but it’s optional. You can skip it or replace it with orange blossom water for a similar Middle Eastern flavor profile.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking pan. Adjust baking times slightly—brownies may need 5–10 minutes longer, and kataifi should be watched closely to avoid burning.