Name: Dubai Chocolate Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern-inspired
Ingredients: 5 ounces kataifi pastry (shredded phyllo dough), chopped and separated; 2 ounces unsalted butter; 12 ounces pistachio paste; ¾ ounce tahini (approximately 0.8 oz); Pinch of salt; 1 pound dark or milk chocolate, melted; Optional: Melted white, green, or pink chocolate for decoration

This Dubai Chocolate is a unique and decadent treat that’s sure to impress. Inspired by the luxurious confections found in Dubai, this recipe combines a crispy kataifi pastry base with a creamy pistachio filling, all encased in a rich chocolate shell. It’s a beautiful and delicious dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or a luxurious homemade gift.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unique and Flavorful: The combination of crispy kataifi pastry, creamy pistachio filling, and rich chocolate creates a truly unique and satisfying flavor experience.
Elegant Presentation: These chocolate bars have a beautiful and elegant presentation that’s perfect for gifting or serving at special occasions.
Surprisingly Easy: With straightforward instructions and readily available ingredients, this recipe is easier to make than you might think.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this luxurious Dubai Chocolate:

Kataifi pastry: Shredded phyllo dough, chopped and separated, for a crispy base.
Unsalted butter: For toasting the kataifi pastry.
Pistachio paste: Adds a creamy texture and a nutty flavor to the filling.
Tahini: Adds a subtle nutty flavor and richness to the filling.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the filling.
Dark or milk chocolate: Melted, for the chocolate shell. Choose your favorite type of chocolate for the best results.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Dubai Chocolate

Step 1: Toast the Kataifi Pastry

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped kataifi pastry and toast, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 2: Make the Pistachio Filling

In a large bowl, combine the pistachio paste, tahini, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Add the toasted kataifi pastry to the bowl and stir until evenly coated.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Shells

Have two large chocolate bar molds ready on a tray. Melt half of the chocolate until smooth. If desired, you can drizzle some melted colored chocolate (white, green, or pink) on the bottom of the molds for a decorative touch. Spoon half of the melted chocolate into each mold, tilting the molds to coat the sides and bottom thoroughly. Pour out any excess chocolate to create a thin and even shell. Place the molds in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes, or until the chocolate shells are set.

Step 4: Fill and Seal

Once the chocolate shells are set, melt the remaining chocolate. Fill each shell with the kataifi-pistachio mixture, pressing it in gently and evenly. Pour the melted chocolate over the filling to seal the bars, smoothing the top with a spatula and scraping away any excess chocolate for a neat finish.

Step 5: Chill and Unmold

Return the molds to the refrigerator for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set. Carefully unmold the chocolate bars. They should release easily once the chocolate has hardened completely.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use high-quality chocolate: The better the quality of your chocolate, the better the taste and texture of the final product.
Chill the molds: Chilling the molds between steps helps the chocolate set properly and prevents the layers from mixing.
Don’t overfill the shells: Leave some space at the top of the shells for the final layer of chocolate to seal the bars properly.

How to Serve Dubai Chocolate

Dessert: These Dubai Chocolate bars are a decadent and elegant dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat.
Gift: They make beautiful homemade gifts for friends and family on any occasion.
Afternoon Tea: Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee for a sophisticated afternoon snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the chocolate bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Serving:

For the best texture and flavor, bring the bars to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut paste?
Yes, you can experiment with other nut pastes, such as almond paste or cashew paste, but pistachio paste is traditional in Dubai chocolate.

Can I use a different type of mold?
Yes, you can use any type of mold that’s suitable for chocolate, such as silicone molds or candy bar molds.

Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, you can use vegan butter and choose a vegan chocolate that’s free from dairy ingredients.

How can I decorate these bars?
You can drizzle melted white chocolate or colored chocolate over the top, or sprinkle with chopped nuts or edible glitter for a decorative touch.

There you have it! A unique and delicious recipe for Dubai Chocolate that’s sure to impress. Enjoy!