When I first tasted a Dubai Chocolate Bar, I was surprised by how much joy could come from a simple treat. It was like unwrapping a gift of indulgence—crunchy kataifi pastry mingled with rich pistachio cream and silky milk chocolate. Inspired by that moment, I knew I had to recreate this delightful combination at home. The vibrant green of the pistachio blended with the warmth of butter and chocolate creates an elegant dessert that feels upscale, but the best part? You can whip it up in your kitchen with minimal fuss!
Perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering or simply treating yourself on a cozy evening, these Pistachio Chocolate Bars are a crowd-pleaser. The balance of flavors and textures makes it an irresistible option for anyone looking to step away from fast food and enjoy a homemade delight. So, let’s dive into this recipe that promises to add a touch of Dubai’s richness to your dessert table!
Why love this Dubai Chocolate Bar recipe?
Irresistible flavors come together in these decadent bars, marrying crunchy kataifi pastry with creamy pistachio butter and smooth chocolate. Quick and easy to make, they elevate any occasion in just under an hour. Impressive presentation is guaranteed with their vibrant colors and sumptuous layers, perfect for sharing with friends or indulging solo. Versatile enough to adapt with your favorite nuts or toppings, this recipe is your new go-to for homemade indulgence.
Dubai Chocolate Bar Ingredients
• Get ready to indulge!
For the Base
• Unsalted butter (or coconut oil) – Use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Kataifi pastry dough – This unique pastry adds a delightful crunch to your bars.
For the Filling
• Creamy pistachio butter (or pistachio cream) – This is the star of your Dubai Chocolate Bar, bringing richness and flavor.
• Tahini – Adds a nutty depth to the filling, enhancing the overall taste.
• Kosher salt – Just a pinch balances the sweetness perfectly.
For the Topping
• White chocolate chips – Thinly layer this for a contrasting sweetness.
• Green food coloring (optional) – A few drops add vibrant color, making your bars visually stunning.
• Milk chocolate chips – Choose high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
Feel free to explore variations with this Dubai Chocolate Bar recipe, and let your creativity shine!
How to Make Dubai Chocolate Bars
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Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the kataifi pastry dough and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden-brown and crispy, about 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl.
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Mix the melted pastry with pistachio butter, tahini, and kosher salt until evenly combined, creating a lush filling.
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Prepare the silicone chocolate mold(s) by placing them on a baking sheet for stability.
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Simmer water in a small saucepan and set a heatproof medium bowl over it. Add the white chocolate chips and cook while stirring until melted, about 1 minute.
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Color the melted white chocolate by stirring in green food coloring if desired. Drizzle this over the mold(s) to form a decorative pattern, then freeze while preparing the milk chocolate.
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Reserve 1/4 cup of the milk chocolate chips from the total. Reheat the bowl over the simmering water and add the remaining milk chocolate chips and the last tablespoon of unsalted butter. Heat until melted, about 2 minutes.
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Blend in the reserved chocolate chips off the heat until everything is smooth. Coat the inside of the mold(s) with a thin layer of this melted chocolate, then freeze until set, about 10 minutes.
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Spread the pistachio cream mixture into the mold(s) evenly, using a spatula for an exquisite layer. Pour the remaining melted chocolate over the top and spread to fill the mold.
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Level the tops by lightly scraping to remove excess chocolate. Place the mold(s) in the refrigerator until fully set, at least 40 minutes.
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Unmold the bars carefully, trimming any overhanging chocolate if you wish, to give them a neat appearance.
Optional: Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top for added crunch and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Dubai Chocolate Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the kataifi pastry base and the pistachio filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their flavors and textures. When you’re ready to assemble, spread the filling into the chilled mold and coat with melted chocolate. For an even quicker option, make the entire dessert up to 3 days in advance, refrigerating the completed bars in their mold. Just remember to allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing to ensure clean cuts. By prepping ahead, you’ll have an impressive, homemade treat ready to serve with minimal effort!
Dubai Chocolate Bar Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor these delightful bars to suit your tastes!
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Nutty Twist: Add chopped hazelnuts or almonds for a delightful crunch that enhances the nutty flavor of the pistachio. A mix of textures will elevate every bite.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the chocolate mixture for a surprising heat that perfectly balances the sweetness. It’s a daring addition but worth the thrill!
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Fruit Fusion: Swap in crushed dried fruits like cranberries or apricots to introduce a chewy, tangy element. The burst of sweetness complements the richness beautifully.
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Vegan Delight: Use coconut oil instead of butter, and opt for dark chocolate to create a fully vegan treat. This version doesn’t compromise on flavor, making it a crowd favorite.
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Cocoa Bliss: Substitute half of the milk chocolate chips with cocoa powder for an intense chocolate flavor. This alternative gives the bars a deeper character that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Flavored Tahini: Experiment with flavored tahini, like chocolate or cinnamon, to add a unique twist to the filling. Each bite will surprise the palate with delightful new layers of taste.
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Matcha Marvel: Mix in a teaspoon of matcha powder for a green tea essence that complements the pistachio flavor while adding stunning color. It’s an elegant touch that’s also healthful!
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Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle a homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce on top for an irresistible sweet-and-salty contrast. It turns an already indulgent treat into an unforgettable experience.
What to Serve with Dubai Chocolate Bars?
Imagine having a delightful spread to complement your rich, vibrant bars, making your dessert experience truly unforgettable.
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Fresh Berries: Serve with a medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries; their tartness balances the sweetness beautifully.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream offers a cool contrast that enhances the chocolatey goodness.
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Mint Tea: A warm cup of mint tea refreshes the palate and adds an exotic twist that pairs well with the pistachio flavors.
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Espresso: A shot of bold espresso provides a rich counterpoint, enhancing the chocolate’s depth while keeping your taste buds awake.
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Nutty Oatmeal Cookies: Crunchy oatmeal cookies complement the bars’ textures; they make for a comforting side that everyone will love.
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Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey over the bars introduces an additional layer of sweetness, highlighting the pistachio’s natural flavors.
Imagine the sensations as you enjoy these heavenly combinations after a sumptuous meal or as a delightful afternoon treat. Each pairing brings something unique, making your Dubai Chocolate Bars an extraordinary experience.
Tips for the Best Dubai Chocolate Bars
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Chill the Mold: Refrigerate the silicone mold before pouring in the melted chocolate. This helps thicken the chocolate quickly so that it sets perfectly.
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Crispy Texture: Be sure to cook the kataifi pastry until it’s golden-brown and crispy. Undercooking will result in a chewy base instead of the desired crunch.
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Quality Chocolate: Use good-quality milk chocolate for the topping. This elevates the flavor profile of your Dubai Chocolate Bar, making it truly decadent.
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Don’t Skip the Salt: A small pinch of kosher salt enhances the sweetness of the filling. Without it, your bars may taste one-dimensional.
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Stay Creative: Feel free to customize your bars! Adding other nuts or even dried fruits can create unique variations to suit different tastes.
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Avoid Over-melting: While melting chocolate, always stir constantly and monitor closely to prevent it from seizing up.
How to Store and Freeze Dubai Chocolate Bars
Room Temperature: Keep your Dubai Chocolate Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best texture and flavor.
Fridge: If storing longer, place them in the fridge. They can stay fresh for about a week, but be sure to seal them well to prevent any moisture build-up.
Freezer: To keep them for an extended period, freeze the bars in a single layer, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 2 months. Defrost them in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: If served cold, let the bars sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to enhance their flavor and texture.
Dubai Chocolate Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of kataifi pastry should I use?
You should look for kataifi pastry that is frozen and has a fine texture, which gives your bars that delightful crunch. You can often find it in Middle Eastern grocery stores or in the frozen section of well-stocked supermarkets. Be sure to thaw it properly before using to ensure even cooking.
How should I store the Dubai Chocolate Bars?
Absolutely! Store your Dubai Chocolate Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, move them to the fridge, where they can stay fresh for about a week. Just be sure to seal them well to avoid moisture, which could alter their textures.
Can I freeze these bars? How?
Yes, you can freeze them! To do this, individually wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a single layer in an airtight container. You can keep them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them defrost in the fridge overnight for the best flavor and texture.
What should I do if my chocolate seized while melting?
If your chocolate has seized, don’t panic! You can often rescue it by adding a tiny amount of vegetable oil or shortening and stirring vigorously until it smooths out. In the future, ensure that no moisture gets into your melting bowl, as even a drop can cause the chocolate to seize.
Are these bars suitable for people with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, these Dubai Chocolate Bars contain pistachios and other nut-based ingredients, making them unsuitable for those with nut allergies. If you’re looking to adapt the recipe for nut-free options, consider substituting the pistachio butter with a seed butter like sunflower seed butter for a similar creamy texture without the nuts.
How can I ensure my bars have a shiny finish?
To achieve a lovely, shiny finish on your Dubai Chocolate Bars, make sure to temper your chocolate before using it to coat the bars. This process involves melting and cooling the chocolate to certain temperatures, allowing it to set with a beautiful sheen. It’s not necessary, but it does add an elegant touch!
Delight in Dubai Chocolate Bars: A Sweet Homemade Escape
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the kataifi pastry dough and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden-brown and crispy, about 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl.
- Mix the melted pastry with pistachio butter, tahini, and kosher salt until evenly combined, creating a lush filling.
- Prepare the silicone chocolate mold(s) by placing them on a baking sheet for stability.
- Simmer water in a small saucepan and set a heatproof medium bowl over it. Add the white chocolate chips and cook while stirring until melted, about 1 minute.
- Color the melted white chocolate by stirring in green food coloring if desired. Drizzle this over the mold(s) to form a decorative pattern, then freeze while preparing the milk chocolate.
- Reserve 1/4 cup of the milk chocolate chips from the total. Reheat the bowl over the simmering water and add the remaining milk chocolate chips and the last tablespoon of unsalted butter. Heat until melted, about 2 minutes.
- Blend in the reserved chocolate chips off the heat until everything is smooth. Coat the inside of the mold(s) with a thin layer of this melted chocolate, then freeze until set, about 10 minutes.
- Spread the pistachio cream mixture into the mold(s) evenly, using a spatula for an exquisite layer. Pour the remaining melted chocolate over the top and spread to fill the mold.
- Level the tops by lightly scraping to remove excess chocolate. Place the mold(s) in the refrigerator until fully set, at least 40 minutes.
- Unmold the bars carefully, trimming any overhanging chocolate if you wish, to give them a neat appearance.