What is so special about Dubai chocolate?

Dubai chocolate desserts are known for being extra in the best way. We’re talking luxurious ingredients, bold flavors, and tons of texture—think pistachios, tahini, rosewater, and gold flakes (yup, really). They’re rich, layered, and just feel like a treat. It’s not just chocolate—it’s chocolate with swagger .

What is a Dubai brownie?

A Dubai brownie takes your basic brownie and gives it a serious glow-up. It’s a fudgy chocolate base (usually from a box, no shame!) topped with crispy kataifi, creamy pistachio or tahini layers, and glossy chocolate ganache. It’s dessert meets art project, but it’s actually super easy to make.

How many calories are in a Dubai chocolate brownie?

If you cut your 9×9 pan into 16 squares (which, let’s be real, is generous—no judgment if you go bigger), each Dubai chocolate brownie clocks in at around 480 calories per piece. That’s factoring in the brownie mix, buttery kataifi, tahini, pistachio cream, ganache—the whole dreamy layered situation. Of course, calorie count can shift depending on the brands you use or how big you slice ‘em, but 480 is a solid ballpark. And honestly? WORTH. EVERY. BITE.

What country is known for brownies?

Brownies are an American classic—born in the USA, baked into potlucks and bake sales forever. But this Dubai chocolate inspired brownie version? That’s what happens when American comfort meets Middle Eastern flair. And honestly, it’s a match made in dessert heaven.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes! You can totally prep the components—brownie base, kataifi layer, ganache—store them separately, and assemble right before serving. It keeps the texture on point and gives you “freshly made” vibes even if you prepped two days ago.

Easy Dubai Chocolate Brownies (From a Box Mix!)

Ingredients

Scale

For the Brownie Base:

Cooking spray
1 box chocolate brownie mix (18 to 20 oz)
Ingredients as required by the mix (typically eggs, oil, water)

For the Kataifi Pistachio Layer:

6 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 oz kataifi pastry, chopped into ½-inch pieces
3 tablespoons tahini
1½ cups pistachio cream (from two 7-oz jars)

Ganache Layer

½ cup heavy cream
2 cups milk chocolate chips
Optional: crushed pistachios for topping

Cook Mode Don't let your screen peace out mid-stir.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 325°F. Spray a 9×9 pan and line with parchment paper.
Prepare brownie mix according to box instructions. Pour into pan and bake for 35–40 minutes. Let cool completely.
In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter. Add chopped kataifi and toast for 15–18 minutes, stirring until golden and crisp.
Remove kataifi from heat and stir in tahini and 1¼ cups + 2 tbsp pistachio cream. Mix well.
Spread the kataifi mixture evenly over cooled brownies.
Heat cream in a saucepan until it begins to bubble. Pour over chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth.
Pour ganache over kataifi layer. Drizzle remaining 2 tbsp pistachio cream on top and swirl with a toothpick.
Sprinkle with crushed pistachios if desired. Chill for at least 30 minutes to set.
Lift out with parchment and slice into squares to serve.

Notes

Make sure brownie base is completely cool before adding the kataifi layer to keep layers distinct.
Chill for clean slicing and best texture.
Store assembled brownies in the fridge for up to 3 days. For crunchier texture, store layers separately and assemble before serving.
Gluten-free option: use GF brownie mix and substitute kataifi with crispy rice or GF cornflakes.
Dairy-free option: use plant-based butter, chocolate, and coconut cream for ganache.

Author: Jason Clarke
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: Middle Eastern Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 brownie
Calories: 480
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 40mg