Middle‑Eastern Kunafa Brownie Bites combine the fudgy richness of classic brownies with the crisp, golden charm of shredded kunafa pastry. These mini delights offer a unique fusion of textures and flavors—where deep chocolate meets the buttery crunch of kataifi dough. Perfect for entertaining or as an elegant sweet bite, these brownie bites bring together the best of Middle Eastern and Western desserts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe offers a fun and delicious twist on two beloved treats. You’ll love it because:
- It blends the richness of brownies with the crisp texture of kunafa pastry.
- Mini portions make it ideal for sharing at parties or gatherings.
- Simple to prepare with familiar ingredients and a unique presentation.
- Versatile—serve plain or with a drizzle of syrup for extra sweetness.
- A standout fusion dessert sure to impress guests.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1/2 batch brownie batter (homemade or box mix)
- 1 cup shredded kunafa dough (kataifi), thawed
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Optional: simple syrup or honey for drizzle
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
- In a bowl, mix the shredded kunafa dough with melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon (if using).
- Press a small amount of kunafa mixture into the bottom and up the sides of each muffin cup to form a nest.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of brownie batter into each prepared cup.
- Top each with a few strands of the remaining kunafa dough.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the kunafa is golden and the brownies are set.
- Cool slightly before removing from the tin. Drizzle with simple syrup or honey if desired before serving.
Servings and timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Servings: 12 bites
- Calories: 160 kcal per bite
Variations
- Nutty addition: Sprinkle chopped pistachios or walnuts over the top before baking.
- Spiced chocolate: Add a pinch of cardamom or espresso powder to the brownie batter.
- Cheesecake layer: Swirl a little cream cheese into the brownie batter for a rich twist.
- Coconut kunafa: Mix in shredded coconut with the kunafa for extra flavor.
- Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free brownie batter and gluten-free kataifi if available.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a low oven (300°F / 150°C) for a few minutes to refresh crispness.
- Freezing: Freeze baked bites for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat gently before serving.
FAQs
Can I use phyllo dough instead of kunafa?
Kunafa (kataifi) works best for the crisp texture, but thinly sliced phyllo may be used in a pinch.
Do I need to brush the kunafa with more butter?
No, mixing with melted butter before assembling is sufficient.
Can I make these in regular muffin tins?
Yes, but adjust the filling amount and bake time slightly as they will be larger.
Is the syrup necessary?
It’s optional—these bites are delicious with or without the added sweetness.
How do I keep the kunafa from burning?
Check for doneness at 15 minutes and tent lightly with foil if browning too quickly.
Can I make these ahead?
Yes, they can be baked a day ahead and refreshed in the oven before serving.
What kind of brownie batter works best?
A classic fudgy brownie batter complements the kunafa texture well.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes, fold mini chocolate chips into the batter for extra richness.
Do these need to cool fully before serving?
Let them cool slightly so they hold their shape when removed from the tin.
Are these suitable for kids?
Yes, they’re sweet, chocolatey, and fun to eat.
Conclusion
Middle‑Eastern Kunafa Brownie Bites are a delightful fusion of crispy kunafa pastry and rich brownie goodness. With their unique texture, striking appearance, and indulgent flavor, they’re the perfect mini dessert for entertaining or satisfying a sweet craving. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, these bites bring something truly special to any dessert table.
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Middle‑Eastern Kunafa Brownie Bites
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fudgy brownie centers wrapped in crisp shredded kunafa pastry, baked to golden perfection—where chocolate meets the crunchy charm of Middle Eastern sweets.
Ingredients
- 1/2 batch brownie batter (homemade or box mix)
- 1 cup shredded kunafa dough (kataifi), thawed
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Optional: simple syrup or honey for drizzle
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
- Mix kunafa dough with melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Press a small amount of kunafa dough into the bottom and up the sides of each muffin cup.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of brownie batter into each cup.
- Top with a few more strands of kunafa dough.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and set.
- Cool slightly and drizzle with simple syrup or honey if desired.
Notes
- Use room-temperature kunafa dough for easier handling.
- Serve warm for gooey centers or fully cooled for firmer bites.
- Drizzle with orange blossom or rose water syrup for a more authentic Middle Eastern twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
