Description
These Vegan Dubai Chocolate Brownies are a decadent layered treat featuring a rich macadamia nut butter brownie base, a crunchy pistachio phyllo layer, and a smooth chocolate topping with swirls of nut butter and crunchy pistachios. Perfectly gluten-free and dairy-free, this recipe blends exotic flavors and textures into an elegant dessert that sets beautifully after chilling.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- ⅓ cup macadamia nut butter
- 6 tablespoons water
- 1 cup plant-based chocolate chips (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean powder
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
- ½ cup gluten-free flour
- ¼ cup cacao powder
- 1 cup maple crystals
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Pistachio Layer
- 1 cup pistachio butter
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter (coconut milk-based)
- 2 cups shredded phyllo dough
Chocolate Layer
- 1½ cups plant-based chocolate chips
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil (or coconut oil)
Toppings
- 3 tablespoons raw pistachios
- 2 tablespoons macadamia nut butter (for the swirls)
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Layer: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies later. In a bowl, whisk together the macadamia nut butter and water until smooth to form the wet base.
- Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine: In a separate bowl, melt the plant-based chocolate chips using a microwave or double boiler, then stir in the vanilla bean powder, ground flaxseed, gluten-free flour, cacao powder, maple crystals, baking powder, and sea salt. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until fully combined into a smooth batter.
- Bake Brownie Layer: Pour the prepared brownie batter into the lined pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs. Remove from oven and let the layer cool completely to room temperature.
- Prepare the Pistachio Layer: Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the vegan butter. Add the shredded phyllo dough and toast for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and crispy for texture. Remove from heat and stir in pistachio butter thoroughly, creating a creamy, crunchy mixture.
- Assemble Pistachio Layer: Once the brownie layer is fully cooled, spoon the pistachio mixture evenly over it. Gently press down to form a firm and level layer, ensuring good adhesion to the brownie base.
- Prepare Chocolate Topping: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the plant-based chocolate chips together with the avocado oil, stirring frequently until smooth and well combined to create a glossy chocolate layer.
- Finish Chocolate Layer: Pour the melted chocolate over the pistachio layer and spread it evenly with a spatula to cover completely.
- Create Swirls and Garnish: Using a knife or spatula, gently swirl 2 tablespoons of macadamia nut butter into the top chocolate layer, creating a beautiful marbled effect. Sprinkle raw pistachios evenly on top for added crunch and decoration.
- Chill to Set: Place the assembled brownies in the refrigerator and chill for at least 3-4 hours or overnight to allow all layers to firm up and set completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use parchment paper to line the baking pan for easy removal and clean-up.
- Ensure the brownie layer is completely cooled before adding the pistachio layer to prevent melting or mixing of layers.
- Toasting the shredded phyllo dough adds an essential crunch and texture contrast to the creamy pistachio butter.
- Chilling overnight will yield the best texture and flavor infusion across all layers.
- You can substitute the plant-based chocolate chips with your favorite vegan chocolate brand for varying tastes.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Dubai-inspired fusion