Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe

If you’re obsessed with pistachio desserts or always on the hunt for viral treats, you’re going to love this homemade Dubai Chocolate Bar! This luxurious chocolate bar is packed with a crunchy, creamy pistachio filling and coated in a shiny layer of rich chocolate—just like the ones trending all over social media. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can recreate this stunning, gift-worthy dessert right in your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love Dubai Chocolate Bars

• They taste like a gourmet chocolate shop creation. The smooth chocolate shell combined with the creamy pistachio filling gives each bite a rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavor. The toasted kataifi adds a delicate crunch that makes it feel truly indulgent. It’s a treat that looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to make at home.

• They’re super fun to decorate. You can keep them simple or take them to the next level with a brush of gold dust or a sprinkle of edible glitter. They look stunning and make amazing homemade gifts. Everyone will think you bought them from a high-end chocolatier!

• Great for special occasions or everyday cravings. Whether you’re making these for a party, a holiday, or just a treat-yourself day, they fit right in. They’re easy to customize and always make a statement. Plus, they store well, so you can enjoy them later too!

• No complicated tools or skills needed. You don’t need to be a pastry chef to pull this off. With simple kitchen tools and an easy method for melting or tempering chocolate, this recipe is beginner-friendly. Even first-time candy makers can get impressive results.

• It’s a viral dessert that lives up to the hype. You’ve seen it all over social media, and now you can try it yourself! This homemade version is just as delicious—and way more affordable—than the store-bought ones. Once you try it, you’ll see what all the fuss is about.

Ingredients For Dubai Chocolate Bars

• Shredded Kataifi – These fine strands of shredded phyllo pastry toast up beautifully and give the filling a delicious crunch. Look for dried and chopped kataifi for easier prep, or cut it yourself if needed. Click here to buy it on Amazon.

• Unsalted Butter – Helps the kataifi crisp up and adds richness to the filling without adding extra salt.

• Pistachio Cream – A sweet, smooth spread made with pistachios that adds flavor and sweetness. Be sure not to confuse it with pistachio butter or paste, which are unsweetened and much more intense. Click here to buy it on Amazon.

• Tahini – Adds a subtle nutty depth that balances the sweetness of the pistachio cream.

• Salt – Just a little pinch enhances all the flavors and brings out the nuttiness.

• Real Chocolate (Dark or Milk) – Use high-quality chocolate bars (not chips or candy bars) for best melting and flavor.

• Optional: Food-Grade Lustre Gold Dust – For that elegant shimmer! Just mix with a little water or alcohol and brush it onto the finished bars for a beautiful golden touch.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Dubai Chocolate Bars

• Frying Pan – Used to toast the kataifi until golden brown and crispy.

• Heatproof Bowl – Perfect for melting chocolate safely over a double boiler or in the microwave.

• Chocolate Bar Molds – Silicone molds work best for easy removal and a smooth finish on your bars.

• Spatula or Bench Scraper – Helps spread and smooth the melted chocolate and gives your bars clean, professional edges.

• Measuring Cups and Measuring Spoons – Essential for getting accurate quantities of every ingredient.

• Optional: Candy Thermometer – Handy if you want to temper your chocolate for that perfect glossy snap.

• Optional: Food-Safe Brush – For applying lustre gold dust or other decorative touches to your finished bars.

How To Make Dubai Chocolate Bars

• Start by toasting the kataifi. Melt butter in a frying pan, then stir in the shredded kataifi and cook until golden and crispy. This step adds that irresistible crunch to the filling.

• Mix up the filling by combining pistachio cream, tahini, and salt in a bowl, then stir in the crispy kataifi until everything is evenly coated. Set the mixture aside while you prepare the chocolate.

• Melt your chocolate using the method you prefer—either in the microwave or over a double boiler. For a glossy, professional finish, you can temper it, but it’s totally optional.

• Pour most of the melted chocolate into silicone molds and tilt them around so the chocolate covers all sides. Flip the molds over to let the extra drip out and scrape the edges for a clean finish.

• Let the chocolate shells chill in the fridge for a few minutes until set. Once firm, spoon in the pistachio filling and press it into the corners. Leave some space on top so the bars seal evenly.

• Cover the filling with the remaining chocolate and smooth out the top using a spatula or bench scraper. If your chocolate gets too thick, warm it gently before sealing.

• Chill the bars again until completely firm, then pop them out of the molds and admire your homemade masterpiece.

• If you want to get fancy, brush the outside with edible gold dust for that extra sparkle!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these Dubai Chocolate Bars chilled or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. The contrast between the smooth chocolate shell and the crunchy filling is absolutely divine.

• Slice the bars into smaller pieces and place them on a fancy dessert platter for parties or special gatherings. They make an elegant addition to any dessert table.

• Wrap individual bars in foil or decorative cellophane and tie with ribbon for a beautiful edible gift. They’re perfect for holidays, birthdays, or as a luxurious thank-you treat.

• Pair with a cup of Turkish coffee or a homemade iced coffee latte to balance the sweetness and bring out the nutty flavors.

• These also make a fun dessert course—just serve with fresh blueberries or a vanilla whipped cream frosting for a restaurant-style presentation.

Tips For Success

• Use real chocolate, not chocolate chips – Chips and candy bars have additives that prevent proper melting. Real chocolate bars (like couverture or baking chocolate) melt smoothly and give you the shiny, firm finish you want.

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• Toast the kataifi until golden and crispy – Don’t rush this step! Golden, crispy kataifi gives that signature crunch in every bite. Stir occasionally and toast evenly.

• Make sure you’re using pistachio cream – Don’t confuse it with pistachio paste or butter. Pistachio cream is sweet and smooth—perfect for filling. The others are more savory and will totally change the flavor.

• Don’t overfill the molds – Keep the pistachio filling level with the top so the chocolate can seal the bars cleanly. If overfilled, the bars may break or look uneven.

• Temper your chocolate for best results – It’s optional, but gives your bars a beautiful glossy shine and a perfect snap. You can do it without a thermometer using the seeding method—it’s easier than it sounds!

• Chill bars until fully firm before unmolding – Be patient and let the chocolate set completely. If you remove them too early, they might stick or break.

• Decorate lightly for a luxury look – Just a touch of gold dust or edible glitter goes a long way. Use a small brush for best results.

• Store in a cool, dry place—not the fridge – Refrigeration can cause chocolate to bloom (turn white or streaky). Keep them in an airtight container at room temp for up to 3 months.

• Practice makes perfect – Even if your first batch isn’t flawless, it’ll still taste amazing. Every time you make them, you’ll get better at working with the ingredients and molds.

Variations And Substitutions

• Use different types of chocolate – Dark chocolate adds a bold contrast to the sweet filling, but you can use milk chocolate for a creamier taste. White chocolate also works and gives a fun twist in both color and flavor. Just make sure it’s high-quality real chocolate, not candy melts or chips.

• Try a nut-free version – Swap out the pistachio cream for a sweet sunflower seed spread if you’re avoiding nuts. It still creates a creamy texture and mild flavor that pairs well with the chocolate. Just be sure to use a sweetened version or add a touch of sugar if needed.

• Adjust the sweetness and flavor – You can change the ratio of pistachio cream to tahini depending on how sweet or nutty you want the filling. More tahini makes it earthier and less sweet, while more pistachio cream keeps it extra indulgent. Taste as you mix to find your perfect balance.

• Use mini molds for bite-sized treats – Instead of full-sized bars, make smaller versions using mini silicone molds. They’re perfect for party platters, gifting, or portion control (if you can stop at just one!).

• Add chopped nuts or coconut to the filling – For extra texture, stir in some finely chopped roasted pistachios or shredded coconut. Just a tablespoon or two will give the filling even more crunch and flavor.

• Decorate in your own style – Gold dust adds elegance, but you can also drizzle with colored white chocolate or press chopped pistachios into the top. Get creative with edible glitter or colorful accents for holidays and events.

• Make it dairy-free – Use a dairy-free butter substitute for toasting the kataifi and make sure to choose dairy-free chocolate. There are lots of great vegan chocolate options that melt beautifully.

• Use other fillings – Try hazelnut spread or almond cream for a different nutty twist. Just make sure the filling is sweet, smooth, and thick enough to hold together with the kataifi.

• Flavor the chocolate – Add a drop of food-grade orange or rose extract to the melted chocolate before pouring into the mold. It gives the bars a sophisticated flavor boost with a Middle Eastern vibe.

• Experiment with layers – For an extra fancy version, add a thin layer of flavored chocolate or fruit jam between the filling and the chocolate base. Raspberry, rose, or cardamom pair beautifully with pistachio.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage – Keep Dubai Chocolate Bars in a cool, dry place away from heat and humidity. Room temperature is ideal—just store them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap. This helps preserve their texture and shine. Avoid storing in the fridge, as moisture can cause the chocolate to bloom (white streaks or spots).

• Shelf Life – These chocolate bars will stay fresh for up to 3 months when properly stored. They also make a great make-ahead treat or edible gift for holidays and special occasions.

• Freezing (Optional) – If you really need to store them long-term, you can freeze them—just wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. When ready to eat, let them thaw in the wrapper at room temperature to prevent condensation from softening the chocolate.

• Reheating – These bars are meant to be enjoyed at room temp or slightly chilled—no need to reheat. If frozen, allow to fully come to room temperature before serving for best taste and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is inside of Dubai chocolate?

Dubai chocolate bars are filled with a sweet, nutty mixture made from pistachio cream, tahini, salt, and crispy toasted kataifi pastry. The filling is smooth and crunchy at the same time, giving it a rich texture that pairs perfectly with a thick chocolate shell. It’s this unique combination of creamy, crispy, and chocolatey that makes Dubai chocolate bars so addictive. The chocolate shell is typically made with either dark or milk chocolate, depending on your taste.

Can I use pistachio paste or pistachio butter instead of pistachio cream?

It’s not recommended. Pistachio cream is sweet and smooth, while pistachio butter or paste is made of pure ground pistachios with no added sugar or creaminess. Using paste or butter will make the filling taste earthy or savory, which won’t give you the dessert-like flavor you expect in Dubai chocolate. Always double-check the label to make sure it’s “pistachio cream” and not just “pistachio spread.”

Do I have to temper the chocolate?

Tempering is optional but highly recommended. When you temper chocolate, it cools and sets in a way that gives it a glossy finish and a satisfying snap when you bite into it. It also helps the bars release easily from the molds and stay firm at room temperature. If you skip tempering, the bars may look dull and have a soft texture, especially if left out at room temperature.

What molds work best for Dubai chocolate bars?

Silicone chocolate bar molds are best, especially ones with deep cavities so there’s room for the filling. Silicone makes it easy to pop the bars out without cracking the chocolate. If you’re using plastic molds, be extra gentle when unmolding and make sure the chocolate is fully set before removing. You can also try smaller molds for bite-sized versions or themed shapes for holidays and events.

How long does it take for the chocolate to set in the fridge?

If your chocolate was tempered, it usually sets within 2 to 5 minutes in the fridge. If not tempered, it may take 15 to 30 minutes or longer to fully firm up. Always check that the chocolate feels hard to the touch before adding the filling or unmolding. Rushing this step can cause the bars to break or lose their shape.

How should I decorate the outside of the chocolate bar?

You can keep it simple with just the smooth chocolate finish, or take it to the next level with gold lustre dust, edible glitter, or even colored chocolate. To use lustre dust, just mix a little with water or alcohol and brush it on after the bars are set. A drizzle of white chocolate or crushed pistachios on top also adds a beautiful touch. Get creative—these bars are meant to impress!

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Dubai chocolate bars are perfect for making ahead. You can store them at room temperature for up to 3 months in a sealed container. They’re great for gifts, parties, or just having a fancy treat on hand whenever a craving hits. Just be sure to keep them in a cool, dry place so the chocolate stays nice and firm.

Can I freeze Dubai chocolate bars?

You can, but it’s not ideal if you plan to decorate them. If you do freeze them, wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn and condensation. Thaw them in their wrapping at room temperature before serving. This helps preserve the texture of the chocolate shell and the crunchy filling.

Can I make them vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! Just use a plant-based butter and a dairy-free chocolate brand that melts well. Be sure to check that your pistachio cream is also vegan (some brands add milk powder). The rest of the ingredients, like kataifi and tahini, are naturally dairy-free.

Where can I find kataifi pastry?

Kataifi is usually found in the freezer section of Middle Eastern or Mediterranean grocery stores. You can also find dried versions online. If it’s not pre-chopped, just snip it into smaller pieces with kitchen scissors before toasting. Make sure it’s fully thawed and dry before cooking for the best crispy texture.

Other Easy Chocolate Recipes

Air Fryer Molten Lava Cakes – These rich and gooey molten lava cakes made in the air fryer are the perfect individual dessert with a warm, oozing chocolate center.

Nutella Hot Cocoa – This creamy and indulgent Nutella hot cocoa combines the smooth, hazelnut-chocolate flavor of Nutella with warm milk for the ultimate cozy drink.

Soft Chocolate Chip Scones – Buttery, tender scones loaded with melty chocolate chips, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack.

Classic Chocolate Chess Pie – A decadent, fudgy chocolate chess pie with a rich filling and a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture, set in a buttery crust.

Easy Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake – This simple yet delicious chocolate cherry dump cake is made with just a few ingredients, creating a warm, comforting dessert in no time.

Homemade Chocolate-Covered Popcorn – Crunchy popcorn coated in rich, melted chocolate for a sweet and salty snack that’s irresistibly addictive.

Chocolate Frosting Using Chocolate Chips – This easy homemade chocolate frosting, made with chocolate chips, creates a smooth and creamy topping for cakes, cupcakes, and more.

More Dessert Recipes

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• Dessert Pastry with Fresh Fruit, Nuts, and Whipped Cream
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