Copycat Crumbl Dubai Chocolate Brownie Recipe

by Haven
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One dessert that truly left me in awe was the Crumbl Dubai Chocolate Brownie—a rich, fudgy creation with bold chocolatey goodness and an exotic twist of pistachio and shredded kataifi crunch. It’s decadent, unique, and an absolute showstopper for anyone who loves bold flavors combined with a bit of elegance.

How to make Crumbl Dubai Chocolate Brownie

The Crumbl Cookies Dubai Chocolate Brownie is a rich, limited-edition dessert inspired by the viral “Dubai chocolate” trend (think luxury chocolate + pistachio + crunchy pastry vibes).

Ingredients

Brownie Base:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt

Kataifi and Pistachio Crunch:

  • 1 cup kataifi (shredded phyllo pastry; often available in Middle Eastern stores)
  • ½ cup crushed pistachios
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
  • 2 tbsp honey

Chocolate Topping:

  • 1 cup milk chocolate chips or a high-quality milk chocolate bar (chopped)
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream

Instructions

1. Prepare the Brownie Base

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
  3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined—don’t overmix!
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Set aside.

2. Make the Kataifi and Pistachio Crunch

  1. In a small bowl, combine shredded kataifi, crushed pistachios, melted butter, and honey. Toss until everything is well-coated.
  2. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy. Watch carefully to prevent burning!

3. Bake the Brownie Base

  1. Bake the brownie base in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

4. Make the Milk Chocolate Topping

  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the milk chocolate and heavy cream together in 15-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth and glossy.

5. Assemble the Brownie

  1. Once the brownie base has cooled, spread the milk chocolate topping evenly over the top.
  2. Sprinkle the kataifi and pistachio crunch over the chocolate layer, gently pressing it down to ensure it sticks.

6. Chill and Serve

  1. Place the assembled brownie in the fridge for at least 1 hour to allow the topping to set firmly.
  2. Slice into squares or bars and serve!

Tips for Success

  • Use high-quality chocolate: Since this recipe relies heavily on chocolate, opt for good-quality milk chocolate or couverture for the topping. It’ll give you that smooth, creamy finish you’re looking for.
  • Don’t skip the pistachios: The nutty flavor and crunch add an important dimension to replicate the Dubai-inspired twist!
  • Work quickly with kataifi: It dries out easily, so keep it covered with a damp towel when handling it, and make the crunch topping soon after prepping it.
  • Line the pan properly: Using parchment paper with overhang makes removing and cutting the brownies much easier.
  • Chill for clean slices: After assembly, refrigerate the brownies for at least an hour to achieve neat, professional-looking cuts.

What to serve with

The Crumbl Dubai Chocolate Brownie is a show-stopping dessert on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the experience to a whole new level.

1. Ice Cream

The fudgy texture of the brownie pairs beautifully with the cold creaminess of ice cream. Choose flavors that complement its Middle Eastern-inspired elements or its chocolate richness.

Suggestions:

  • Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A classic pairing to balance the intense chocolate flavor.
  • Pistachio Ice Cream: Echoes the pistachio crunch in the brownie and enhances the nutty notes.
  • Salted Caramel Ice Cream: Adds a sweet-and-salty twist, perfect for those who love contrasting flavors.
  • Rose Ice Cream or Cardamom Ice Cream: If you want to lean further into Middle Eastern flavors, these floral notes pair wonderfully with the kataifi crunch.

2. Whipped Cream

Light and fluffy whipped cream is a great option if you want something more subtle than ice cream. It complements the brownie without overpowering its flavors.

You could try:

  • Classic Whipped Cream: Sweetened with a pinch of sugar and vanilla extract.
  • Spiced Whipped Cream: Add a touch of cinnamon or cardamom for a hint of warmth.
  • Pistachio-infused Whipped Cream: Blend ground pistachios into the whipped cream for a nutty texture to match the brownie toppings.

Ingredients Substitutes

The Crumbl Dubai Chocolate Brownie is a rich and decadent dessert. Still, sometimes you need to tweak the ingredients to accommodate dietary preferences, allergies, or simply the items available in your pantry.

1. Brownie Base Substitutes

Butter

Butter plays a key role in providing richness and moisture to the brownie batter. If you’re looking for substitutes, consider these options:

  • Coconut Oil: Use melted coconut oil in place of butter at a 1:1 ratio. It adds a subtle coconut flavor that pairs well with chocolate.
  • Vegetable Oil or Canola Oil: A neutral-tasting alternative that will maintain the brownie’s moisture. Use the same quantity as butter.
  • Vegan Butter: Perfect for making the Crumbl Dubai Chocolate Brownie dairy-free and vegan.

Granulated Sugar and Brown Sugar

Both types of sugar contribute to the sweetness and fudgy texture of the Crumbl Dubai Chocolate Brownie. If you’re out of either, here are alternatives:

  • Coconut Sugar: Replace granulated or brown sugar with coconut sugar for a caramel-like flavor.
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: Use these liquid sweeteners at a ¾ ratio (e.g., ¾ cup honey for every 1 cup sugar). Adjust the flour slightly to account for the added moisture.
  • Date Sugar: A healthier substitute that adds a natural sweetness and complements the Middle Eastern theme.

All-Purpose Flour

Flour builds the structure of the Crumbl Dubai Chocolate Brownie, but there are plenty of alternatives:

  • Gluten-Free Flour Blend: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix to make the recipe gluten-free. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill work well.
  • Almond Flour: Adds nuttiness and creates a slightly denser texture. Replace the flour with almond flour by weight, not volume.
  • Oat Flour: Creates a hearty brownie texture while keeping the recipe gluten-free. Use the same quantity as all-purpose flour.

Eggs

Eggs are essential for binding and creating a moist texture, but you can replace them if needed:

  • Applesauce: Replace each egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce for a moist texture, commonly used in dairy-free or vegan baking.
  • Flaxseed Meal: To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. Let it sit until gel-like.
  • Silken Tofu: Blend ¼ cup of silken tofu per egg and incorporate it into the batter to maintain the same fudgy texture.

Cocoa Powder

Cocoa powder adds the rich chocolate flavor, and you can substitute it with other options:

  • Dutch-Processed Cocoa Powder: Creates a smoother, deeper chocolate flavor compared to unsweetened cocoa powder.
  • Carob Powder: A caffeine-free alternative with a milder chocolate taste. Use it at a 1:1 ratio.
  • Melted Dark Chocolate: Substitute cocoa powder with melted chocolate, using 3 ounces of chocolate for every ¼ cup of cocoa powder. Adjust the butter to account for the extra fat.

2. Kataifi and Pistachio Crunch Substitutes

Kataifi (Shredded Phyllo Dough)

Kataifi provides an exotic crunch to this recipe, but it may not be readily available. Substitute it with:

  • Shredded Coconut: Toasted shredded coconut can mimic the flaky texture of kataifi while adding a tropical touch.
  • Crushed Cornflakes or Rice Krispies: These cereals offer a crunchy texture that can serve as a kataifi replacement.
  • Crushed Graham Crackers: Adds a crumbly texture and mild sweetness.

Pistachios

Pistachios add nutty richness to the crunch topping. If unavailable, try these alternatives:

  • Almonds: Use finely chopped or sliced almonds to replace pistachios.
  • Hazelnuts: Add a slightly buttery flavor and crunch.
  • Cashews: Their creaminess complements the brownie beautifully.
  • Sunflower Seeds or Pumpkin Seeds: Ideal for nut allergies and still provide crunch.

Honey

Honey binds the kataifi and pistachios, but any sweetener with similar consistency works:

  • Maple Syrup: Adds a deep, earthy sweetness.
  • Agave Syrup: A lighter, neutral sweetener.
  • Date Syrup: Perfect for maintaining the Middle Eastern theme.

Final Thoughts

This homemade version of Crumbl Dubai Chocolate Brownie is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something luxurious. It combines rich chocolatey indulgence with unique Middle Eastern flavors, making every bite unforgettable.

More Crumbl Recipes:

Copycat Crumbl Dubai Chocolate Brownie Recipe

Crumbl Dubai Chocolate Brownie

Serves: 4 Prep Time: Cooking Time:
Nutrition facts: 1130 calories 70 grams fat
Rating: 5.0/5
( 1 voted )

Ingredients

Brownie Base:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt

Kataifi and Pistachio Crunch:

  • 1 cup kataifi
  • ½ cup crushed pistachios
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
  • 2 tbsp honey

Chocolate Topping:

  • 1 cup milk chocolate chips 
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream

Instructions

1. Prepare the Brownie Base

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
  3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined—don’t overmix!
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Set aside.

2. Make the Kataifi and Pistachio Crunch

  1. In a small bowl, combine shredded kataifi, crushed pistachios, melted butter, and honey. Toss until everything is well-coated.
  2. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy. Watch carefully to prevent burning!

3. Bake the Brownie Base

  1. Bake the brownie base in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

4. Make the Milk Chocolate Topping

  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the milk chocolate and heavy cream together in 15-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth and glossy.

5. Assemble the Brownie

  1. Once the brownie base has cooled, spread the milk chocolate topping evenly over the top.
  2. Sprinkle the kataifi and pistachio crunch over the chocolate layer, gently pressing it down to ensure it sticks.

6. Chill and Serve

  1. Place the assembled brownie in the fridge for at least 1 hour to allow the topping to set firmly.
  2. Slice into squares or bars and serve!

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