Brown Butter Dubai Pistachio Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a truly decadent dessert that blends nutty richness with chocolatey goodness, these Brown Butter Dubai Pistachio Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are exactly what you need. Imagine buttery, golden-baked cookie bars infused with the deep, toasty flavor of brown butter, layered with crunchy shredded phyllo dough and luscious pistachio cream, all crowned with smooth chocolate ganache and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios. This dessert is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a wonderful way to bring a bit of Dubai-inspired flair into your kitchen. Once you try these bars, they’ll become your go-to treat for special occasions or whenever you want a sweet escape.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Brown Butter Dubai Pistachio Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars lies in the simplicity and quality of each ingredient. Every element plays an essential role— from the nutty aroma of browned butter to the crunchy kataifi shredded phyllo, and the creamy pistachio paste that brings a burst of flavor and beautiful color.

• Salted butter (9 tbsp/134g): Browning the butter deepens its flavor, providing that warm, nutty base for the cookie bars.
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup/125g): Adds moistness and rich caramel undertones to balance the flavors.
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup/40g): Helps create a perfect texture and sweetness.
• Egg (1, room temperature): Binds the ingredients and adds structure to the bars.
• Heavy cream (1 tbsp/15g, plus 2 cups/475ml for ganache): Adds richness both in the dough and the chocolate topping.
• Vanilla extract (1 1/2 tsp/8g): Enhances all the flavors with its sweet, fragrant aroma.
• All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp/190g): Provides the base for the cookie dough’s tender texture.
• Baking soda (1/2 tsp/3g) and baking powder (1/2 tsp/2g): Help the bars rise just enough while keeping them tender.
• Salt (1/4 tsp/1g): Balances out sweetness and enhances the other ingredients.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (3/4 cup/120g in dough, plus 1 cup/170g for ganache): Bring melty pockets of chocolate throughout the bars and richness in the ganache.
• Kataifi shredded phyllo dough (3 cups/300g): Adds a unique, crispy texture inspired by Middle Eastern sweets.
• Pistachio cream or butter (1 cup/300g): Introduces a lush, nutty layer that perfectly complements the chocolate and cookie.
• Chopped pistachios: For a final nutty crunch and beautiful garnish.

How to Make Brown Butter Dubai Pistachio Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan and Brown the Butter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing an 8×8” baking pan with butter, then lining it with parchment paper for easy removal. Next, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring often as it browns and develops that irresistible nutty aroma—usually about 5 minutes. Pour the golden brown butter directly into a large bowl to cool slightly, setting the stage for those luscious Brown Butter Dubai Pistachio Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

While your brown butter is cooling, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. This simple blend will give structure and rise to your bars without toughness.

Step 3: Combine Sugars and Egg with Brown Butter

Once the brown butter has cooled enough to handle but is still warm, whisk in both the brown and granulated sugars. This step ensures the sugars dissolve slightly, creating a smooth base. Then add your egg, whisking vigorously until the mixture lightens in color and thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add Heavy Cream and Vanilla Extract

Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, whisking until everything is beautifully incorporated. These ingredients add moisture and fragrant depth to your cookie bars.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix to keep the bars tender. When nearly combined, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips so that each bite has delightful bursts of melty chocolate.

Step 6: Bake the Cookie Base

Scrape the cookie dough into the parchment-lined pan and smooth it evenly. Bake at 350°F for 22 to 27 minutes until the top is just turning golden. This cookie base is rich and flavorful, laying the perfect foundation for the layers to come.

Step 7: Prepare the Pistachio Filling

While the cookie base cools, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a pan and toast the shredded kataifi until golden and crispy. Once cool, mix the kataifi with the pistachio cream until well combined. This mix adds a delightful crispy and creamy texture to your bars inspired by the vibrant flavors of Dubai.

Step 8: Make the Chocolate Ganache

Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just starts to boil. Pour it immediately over the chocolate chips in a bowl, letting it sit for 5 minutes before stirring until smooth and glossy. This rich ganache will lovingly envelop the pistachio layer.

Step 9: Assemble and Chill

Spread the pistachio filling evenly over the cooled cookie layer, then pour the chocolate ganache on top, smoothing it out. Sprinkle chopped pistachios over the ganache for that extra crunch and beautiful green pop. Finally, place the entire pan in the fridge for at least one hour to allow the layers to set perfectly before slicing into 16 luscious bars.

How to Serve Brown Butter Dubai Pistachio Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped pistachios not only amps up the nuttiness but adds a stunning visual appeal with their vibrant green specks against the dark chocolate. You could also add a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch or a drizzle of white chocolate for contrast.

Side Dishes

These bars pair beautifully with a scoop of creamy vanilla or pistachio ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a lighter option, enjoy them with a cup of fresh mint tea or black coffee to balance the richness with some freshness or bitterness.

Creative Ways to Present

Present your Brown Butter Dubai Pistachio Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars on a decorative tray lined with fresh rose petals for a Middle Eastern inspired vibe. Cut them into small squares and serve on individual plates topped with edible gold flakes or rose water syrup for a luxurious touch your guests will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover bars keep their charm for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The pistachio layer stays creamy, and the cookie base remains soft yet firm, making every bite just as delightful even the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze these bars for up to 2 months. Wrap individual bars or the entire pan tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to preserve that perfect texture.

Reheating

For a warm treat, reheat your bars gently in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes. Warmed ganache and melty chocolate chips make these bars nearly irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?

Yes, you can substitute unsalted butter but be sure to add a pinch more salt to the dough to maintain the perfect balance of flavors in your bars.

What is kataifi and where can I find it?

Kataifi is shredded phyllo dough often used in Middle Eastern desserts. You can find it in Middle Eastern grocery stores or specialty frozen food sections. Alternatively, you might substitute crispy shredded filo or finely chopped crunchy nuts if kataifi is unavailable.

Is pistachio cream the same as pistachio butter?

They are quite similar; both are smooth pistachio pastes. Pistachio cream often has a slightly sweeter, richer texture, while pistachio butter is more natural and less sweet. Either works fabulously in this recipe.

Can I make these bars vegan?

To veganize this recipe, use vegan butter and substitute the egg with flax egg or a similar binder. Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. The flavor and texture will be very close to the original!

How do I know when the cookie base is done baking?

Look for a light golden color on the edges and top, and a slight firmness when gently pressed in the center. It should not be too soft or overly browned. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.

Final Thoughts

Making these Brown Butter Dubai Pistachio Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars is more than baking; it’s creating an experience filled with layered textures and unforgettable flavors. They’re an irresistible homemade treat that will impress friends and family alike. Trust me, once these bars grace your kitchen, you’ll find yourself reaching for them again and again. So preheat that oven and dive into one of the most satisfying desserts you’ll ever make!

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