Inspired by the rich dessert flavors of Dubai, these pistachio chocolate brownies combine a dense, fudgy chocolate base with crunchy roasted pistachios and optional cardamom or rosewater.
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
4 oz dark chocolate (60–70% cacao), chopped
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp rosewater or 1/4 tsp ground cardamom (optional)
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup shelled pistachios, chopped and divided (3/4 cup for batter, 1/4 cup for topping)
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
Melt butter and dark chocolate together. Stir until smooth and cool slightly.
Whisk in sugars, eggs, vanilla, and rosewater/cardamom if using.
Sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Fold gently until just combined.
Fold in 3/4 cup of chopped pistachios.
Pour batter into pan. Top with remaining pistachios.
Bake for 28–32 minutes, until a toothpick has moist crumbs.
Cool completely before slicing.
Use high-quality chocolate for richer flavor.
Add white chocolate chips or espresso powder for variation.
Store in an airtight container or freeze slices individually.
Great for Eid, holidays, or gifting.