This Dubai-inspired chocolate bar is a luxurious treat packed with Middle Eastern flavors. Think creamy chocolate infused with rich dates, crunchy nuts, and a hint of aromatic cardamom. It’s indulgent, slightly exotic, and incredibly easy to make at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent & Unique – A chocolate bar with a rich, Middle Eastern twist.
- Easy to Make – No complicated steps, just melt, mix, and set.
- Customizable – Add your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or even a hint of rosewater.
- Perfect for Gifting – Wrapped beautifully, these bars make an elegant homemade gift.
Ingredients
- Dark chocolate – The rich and smooth base of the bar. Use high-quality chocolate for the best results.
- Dates – Adds natural sweetness and a chewy texture. Medjool dates work best.
- Pistachios & almonds – For crunch and a nutty contrast to the smooth chocolate.
- Cardamom – A hint of spice that enhances the chocolate’s depth.
- Sea salt – Brings out the sweetness and balances flavors.
- Honey or maple syrup (optional) – For a touch of extra sweetness.
- Rose petals (optional) – A beautiful, aromatic garnish.
Note: The ingredient measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Make Dubai Chocolate Bars
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate
Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and melt it using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Step 2: Prepare the Add-Ins
Chop the dates, pistachios, and almonds into small pieces. Lightly toast the nuts for extra flavor.
Step 3: Mix & Spread
Stir in the chopped dates, nuts, and cardamom into the melted chocolate. Pour the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread evenly.
Step 4: Garnish & Set
Sprinkle sea salt and dried rose petals (if using) over the chocolate. Let it set at room temperature or place it in the fridge for about an hour.
Step 5: Break & Enjoy
Once hardened, break the chocolate into bars or chunks. Enjoy immediately or store for later!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use quality chocolate – The better the chocolate, the richer the taste.
- Toast the nuts – Lightly toasting enhances their natural flavor.
- Chop evenly – Keep ingredients in small, uniform pieces for the perfect bite.
- Don’t overheat the chocolate – Melt it slowly to avoid burning.
How to Serve
- With coffee or tea – A perfect pairing with Arabic coffee or a cup of chai.
- As a dessert – Serve alongside fresh fruit or ice cream.
- Gifting idea – Wrap in parchment paper and tie with a ribbon for an elegant homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store the chocolate bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing
Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Let them sit at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
No need to reheat—just break off a piece and enjoy!
FAQs
1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes! If you prefer a sweeter bar, milk chocolate works just as well.
2. What other nuts can I use?
Cashews, walnuts, or hazelnuts make great alternatives.
3. Can I add other flavors?
Absolutely! Try orange zest, cinnamon, or a drop of rosewater for extra depth.
4. How do I make it vegan?
Use dairy-free dark chocolate and swap honey for maple syrup or agave.
Enjoy making and indulging in this luxurious Dubai Chocolate Bar!
Print
Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 2 large chocolate bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The Dubai Chocolate Bar is a viral sensation that combines the rich flavors of pistachio cream and tahini with the delightful crunch of toasted kataifi pastry, all enrobed in smooth chocolate. This homemade version captures the essence of the original, offering a delectable treat that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
Ingredients
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For the Filling:
- 150g kataifi pastry, chopped and separated
- 60g unsalted butter
- 360g pistachio paste
- 20g tahini
- A generous pinch of salt
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For the Chocolate Shell:
- 500g dark or milk chocolate
- 15g pink chocolate melts (optional, for decoration)
- 15g green chocolate melts (optional, for decoration)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil, divided (optional, for thinning the decorative chocolate)
Instructions
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Prepare the Kataifi Filling:
- Toast the Kataifi: In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped kataifi pastry, ensuring it’s well separated. Toast, stirring continuously, until golden brown and crisp, approximately 10 minutes.
- Combine with Pistachio and Tahini: In a separate bowl, mix the pistachio paste, tahini, and salt until smooth. Incorporate the toasted kataifi into this mixture, ensuring an even distribution. Set aside to cool.
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Prepare the Chocolate Molds:
- Decorate (Optional): Melt the pink chocolate melts with 0.5 teaspoons of coconut oil until smooth. Using a spoon, drizzle over the chocolate molds to create a decorative pattern. Repeat with the green chocolate melts. Allow the decorations to set in the refrigerator for a few minutes.
- Create the Chocolate Shell: Melt the dark or milk chocolate until smooth. Pour a portion into each mold, ensuring it coats the sides evenly. Tap the molds gently to remove air bubbles and let any excess chocolate drip out. Place the molds in the refrigerator to set.
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Assemble the Chocolate Bars:
- Add the Filling: Once the chocolate shells have set, spoon the cooled kataifi-pistachio mixture into each mold, pressing gently to ensure it’s compact and level, leaving a small gap at the top for sealing.
- Seal the Bars: Pour the remaining melted chocolate over the filling, ensuring it completely covers and seals the mixture. Smooth the surface with a spatula if necessary.
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Set and Serve:
- Chill: Place the filled molds back into the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes, or until fully set.
- Demold and Enjoy: Once set, carefully remove the chocolate bars from the molds. Store them in an airtight container in a cool place until ready to serve.
Notes
Kataifi Pastry: This shredded filo pastry adds a unique texture. It’s available in Middle Eastern or Mediterranean grocery stores, typically in the refrigerated section.
Pistachio Paste: For a more authentic flavor, use high-quality pistachio paste. If unavailable, consider blending shelled pistachios into a smooth paste.
Tahini: This sesame seed paste balances the sweetness of the pistachio paste and adds depth to the flavor profile.
Chocolate Selection: Dark chocolate provides a pleasant contrast to the sweet filling, but milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter profile.
Storage: Store the chocolate bars in a cool, dry place. If your environment is warm, refrigeration is recommended to prevent melting.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/4 of a bar
- Calories: 750 kcal
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 55g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 28g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Dubai chocolate bar, pistachio chocolate, kataifi dessert, viral chocolate recipe, Middle Eastern dessert