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How to Make a Dubai Chocolate Bar:
How to make Dubai chocolate bar recipe: The Dubai chocolate bar is a viral dessert that has taken the culinary world by storm. Known for its rich chocolate coating, crispy layers of kataifi pastry, and creamy pistachio or hazelnut filling, this indulgent treat combines Middle Eastern ingredients with the decadence of premium chocolate. Originating from Dubai’s vibrant dessert scene, it has become a favorite among chocolate lovers worldwide, especially on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
In this article, we’ll take you through the steps on how to make the Dubai chocolate bar recipe at home. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves combining rich, nutty flavors with crunchy textures. Let’s dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting your Dubai chocolate bar.
Ingredients for Making a Dubai Chocolate Bar
How to make Dubai chocolate bar recipe: To recreate the viral Dubai chocolate bar at home, you’ll need some special ingredients that are commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean desserts. These include kataifi pastry, pistachio cream, and premium Belgian chocolate. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Belgian Chocolate
The base of the Dubai chocolate bar is a thick layer of Belgian chocolate. You can use either milk chocolate or dark chocolate, depending on your preference. Belgian chocolate is known for its creamy texture and balanced sweetness, making it ideal for coating the fillings.
- ‘Amount: 300 grams (10.5 oz) of high-quality Belgian chocolate (milk or dark).
2. Kataifi Pastry
Kataifi pastry, a type of shredded phyllo dough, is the key ingredient that gives the Dubai chocolate bar its crispy texture. You can find this pastry in most Middle Eastern grocery stores, either fresh or frozen.
- Amount: 150 grams (5 oz) kataifi pastry.
3. Pistachio Cream
Pistachio cream is a luxurious, nutty filling that adds depth and richness to the Dubai chocolate bar. You can use store-bought pistachio cream or make your own by blending roasted pistachios with sugar and a bit of oil.
- Amount: 100 grams (3.5 oz) of pistachio cream.
4. Tahini
A small amount of tahini (sesame seed paste) adds an earthy flavor that balances the sweetness of the chocolate and pistachio cream.
- Amount: 1 tablespoon tahini.
5. Unsalted Butter
Butter is used to toast the kataifi pastry, giving it a rich, golden-brown color and a crisp texture.
- Amount: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter.
6. White Chocolate (Optional)
For a decorative touch, drizzle white chocolate over the finished bars. This adds a sweet contrast to the dark or milk chocolate coating and gives the bars a professional look.
- Amount: 50 grams (1.7 oz) white chocolate for drizzling.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make a Dubai Chocolate Bar
Now that we have the ingredients ready, let’s go step by step to create the Dubai chocolate bar. This recipe is fairly easy but does require some attention to detail to ensure the layers come together perfectly.
Step 1: Prepare the Kataifi Pastry
- Thaw the Kataifi Pastry
If you’re using frozen kataifi pastry, make sure to thaw it completely before use. Leave it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about an hour. - Toast the Kataifi
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the shredded kataifi pastry and toast it, stirring frequently for about 10-12 minutes, until it becomes golden brown and crispy. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Melt the Belgian Chocolate
- Chop the Belgian Chocolate
Break the Belgian chocolate into small pieces to ensure it melts evenly. Place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl. - Melt the Chocolate
Using a double boiler, melt the chocolate over simmering water. Stir continuously to prevent burning. If you don’t have a double boiler, you can melt the chocolate in the microwave using 20-second intervals, stirring in between each interval until fully melted. - Coat the Molds
Once melted, spoon a layer of chocolate into silicone bar molds or chocolate molds, coating the bottom and sides evenly. Tap the molds gently to remove any air bubbles and create a smooth surface. - Chill the Chocolate
Place the molds in the freezer for about 10 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
Step 3: Make the Pistachio and Kataifi Filling
- Mix the Kataifi and Pistachio Cream
In a mixing bowl, combine the toasted kataifi pastry with pistachio cream and tahini. Stir until the ingredients are well blended, and the kataifi is fully coated with the creamy filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
- Layer the Filling
Remove the chocolate molds from the freezer and spoon a generous amount of the pistachio and kataifi mixture into each mold. Gently press down to ensure the filling is compact. - Seal with Chocolate
Pour the remaining melted Belgian chocolate over the filling, ensuring that it completely covers the top. Tap the molds again to remove any air bubbles and smooth out the surface. - Chill Again
Place the filled molds back in the freezer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully set.
Step 5: Drizzle with White Chocolate (Optional)
- Melt the White Chocolate
If you’d like to add a decorative touch, melt the white chocolate using the same method as before. - Drizzle the Bars
Once the bars are fully set, remove them from the molds and place them on a tray. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the top for an elegant finish.
Serving and Storing the Dubai Chocolate Bars
How to make Dubai chocolate bar recipe: The Dubai chocolate bars are best served chilled or at room temperature. Their crispy, creamy, and rich texture makes them an ideal dessert for special occasions or as a luxurious snack.
Storage:
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to one month.
Tips for Perfecting Your Dubai Chocolate Bars
- Use High-Quality Ingredients
The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the final product. Be sure to use high-quality Belgian chocolate and fresh pistachio cream for the best flavor and texture. - Don’t Overstuff the Bars
Make sure to evenly distribute the pistachio cream and kataifi pastry mixture, but avoid overfilling the molds, as this can cause the bars to break apart when removed. - Allow the Chocolate to Set Properly
Give the chocolate enough time to set in the freezer between steps. Rushing this process can result in uneven layers and a messy appearance. - Experiment with Fillings
While pistachio cream is the traditional filling, you can experiment with other nut butters like hazelnut cream, almond butter, or even cashew cream for a different flavor profile.
FAQs: How to Make Dubai Chocolate Bars
1. Can I Use Dark Chocolate Instead of Milk Chocolate?
Yes! Dark chocolate is a great alternative for those who prefer a less sweet version of the Dubai chocolate bar. The slight bitterness of the dark chocolate pairs well with the nutty flavors of the pistachio and tahini.
2. Where Can I Find Kataifi Pastry?
Kataifi pastry can be found at Middle Eastern or Mediterranean grocery stores. If you can’t find it locally, many online retailers sell frozen kataifi pastry that can be shipped directly to your home.
3. Can I Make the Bars in Advance?
Absolutely! The Dubai chocolate bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. This makes them an excellent option for preparing desserts in advance for parties or special occasions.
Conclusion
The Dubai chocolate bar is a decadent, viral dessert that combines the rich flavors of Belgian chocolate, pistachio cream, and kataifi pastry. This luxurious treat has become a favorite worldwide, thanks to its crispy texture, nutty filling, and smooth chocolate coating. Now that you know how to make it at home, you can enjoy this indulgent dessert anytime.
Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, the Dubai chocolate bar is sure to impress. Try experimenting with different fillings and chocolates to make the recipe your own!