Pistachio Brownies Recipe

There is something utterly magical about Pistachio Brownies that makes them a standout in any dessert lineup. Imagine rich, fudgy brownie layers paired with a luscious pistachio cream filling and topped with a silky milk chocolate ganache. This irresistible combination delivers a harmonious balance of deep cocoa flavors, nutty sweetness, and a delightful crunch that will have you reaching for seconds before you know it. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something extraordinary, these Pistachio Brownies are bound to become your new favorite treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating the perfect Pistachio Brownies is surprisingly straightforward thanks to a handful of key ingredients. Each one has been chosen carefully for its ability to contribute to the dessert’s rich texture, vibrant flavor, or beautiful color.

• Unsalted Butter (6 tablespoons / 85g): Adds a velvety richness and moisture essential for fudgy brownies.
• Neutral Oil (2 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons): Keeps the brownies soft and tender without overpowering the taste.
• Granulated White Sugar (1 cup / 200g): Sweetens the batter and helps create a glossy finish.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances other flavors.
• Cocoa Powder (⅔ cup / 56g): Provides that deep chocolate intensity that brownies are known for.
• Large Eggs (2 whole): Bind the ingredients and add richness to the batter.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile.
• All-Purpose Flour (½ cup / 60g): Gives structure to the brownies without making them cakey.
• Homemade or Store-Bought Pistachio Cream (1 cup): The star of the filling, adding nutty sweetness and creaminess.
• Kataifi (3 cups / 120g): A shredded pastry that crisps up beautifully for added texture.
• Unsalted or Salted Butter (3 tablespoons): Used to toast the kataifi, making it golden and crunchy.
• Milk Chocolate Bar (7 ounces / 198g): For the silky ganache topping that ties everything together.
• Heavy Cream (⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon / 90g): Creates a luscious, smooth ganache when combined with chocolate.

How to Make Pistachio Brownies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First, set your oven rack in the center and preheat it to 325ºF (162ºC). Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to make lifting the brownies out later an absolute breeze. Preparation is key to ensuring your Pistachio Brownies bake evenly and come out perfect every time!

Step 2: Whip Up the Brownie Layer

In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt together butter, oil, sugar, and salt, stirring gently until everything is combined and smooth. Remove from heat, then sift in cocoa powder and whisk until just mixed—this gives you that rich, glossy base. Next, whisk in vanilla and eggs one at a time to keep the batter luscious and airy. Finally, sift in the flour and fold it in gently using a spatula to maintain the fudgy texture.

Step 3: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and slide it into the oven. Bake for 19 to 22 minutes until a toothpick inserted has some moist crumbs clinging to it—this is the sweet spot for fudgy brownies. Let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack or pop them in the fridge for a quicker chill.

Step 4: Prepare the Pistachio Filling

If you’re using homemade pistachio cream, make it now; otherwise, your store-bought cream will work perfectly. Chop your thawed kataifi pastry into ¼ to ½ inch pieces, then melt butter in a large frying pan over medium-low heat. Add the kataifi and stir constantly until it’s golden and crispy, about 12 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in the pistachio cream until everything is evenly combined. Save a couple of tablespoons of the cream if you want to swirl it on top later.

Step 5: Assemble the Filling Layer

Spread the pistachio filling evenly over the cooled brownie layer. This is where the magic really starts to come together, combining fudgy chocolate with that creamy, nutty filling for a texture and flavor experience that’s hard to beat.

Step 6: Make the Chocolate Ganache

Chop your chocolate finely and place it aside. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan just until it simmers. Remove from heat and pour the hot cream over the chocolate. Let it sit untouched for 4 to 5 minutes to melt the chocolate fully, then stir gently until smooth and glossy.

Step 7: Add Ganache and Final Touches

Pour the silky ganache over the pistachio filling, spreading it evenly for a smooth top layer. If you saved some pistachio cream, feel free to swirl it into the ganache for beautiful veins of color and extra flavor. Finish by sprinkling with ground pistachios for a pop of texture and an inviting look. Chill your Pistachio Brownies for 30 to 45 minutes until the ganache sets completely.

How to Serve Pistachio Brownies

Garnishes

A sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios or edible rose petals adds a stunning visual appeal and an extra nutty crunch. For a touch of luxury, a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate complements the rich layers beautifully.

Side Dishes

These brownies pair wonderfully with simple sides like a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or mint tea can enhance the flavors and provide a nice contrast while you savor each bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Pistachio Brownies on a wooden board with fresh berries and edible flowers for a rustic yet elegant touch. Box them up in a cute gift package for friends and family, or cut them into bite-sized squares for a party platter that’s sure to impress everyone.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pistachio Brownies keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week, which brings out a beautiful fudginess. Remember to let them come to room temperature before serving so the flavors shine.

Freezing

You can freeze these brownies for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a sealed container or freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

Warm up a slice briefly in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds to revive their gooey, indulgent texture. Avoid overheating to prevent drying them out. The ganache topping will soften perfectly, giving you that freshly baked sensation all over again.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pistachio cream for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought pistachio cream works wonderfully. If it tastes a little too sweet, try adding a pinch of salt or a bit of pistachio butter or tahini to balance the flavors.

What is kataifi, and why is it used in the filling?

Kataifi is a shredded phyllo pastry that crisps up when toasted. It adds a unique crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pistachio filling in the brownies.

Can I substitute dark chocolate for the milk chocolate ganache?

Yes, dark chocolate makes an excellent ganache that offers a deeper, slightly more bitter flavor to balance the sweetness of the pistachio filling. Just adjust the heavy cream quantity as needed for a silky consistency.

How fudgy are these Pistachio Brownies?

They are wonderfully fudgy, thanks to the butter, oil, and precise baking time. A toothpick with moist crumbs indicates the perfect fudgy consistency that melts in your mouth.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

To make these Pistachio Brownies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure your pistachio cream and other ingredients are also gluten-free for best results.

Final Thoughts

There’s a special kind of joy that comes from biting into a beautifully layered Pistachio Brownie with its rich chocolate, nutty filling, and decadent ganache. This recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels luxurious and comforting all at once. I can’t wait for you to try making them yourself, share with loved ones, and discover just how addictive these little bites of heaven are!

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