Homemade Dubai Chocolate with Pistachio
Have you ever dreamed of creating a dessert that combines the crunchiness of shredded phyllo with the richness of pistachios, all enrobed in smooth chocolate? Today, we’re excited to share with you a recipe that’s been taking the dessert world by storm – the famous Dubai Chocolate! This luxurious treat, combining traditional Middle Eastern flavors with modern chocolate crafting techniques, is surprisingly easy to make at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect balance of textures: crispy shredded phyllo, creamy pistachio filling, and smooth chocolate coating
- Make-ahead friendly: can be stored for up to 2 weeks
- Impressive presentation for special occasions
- No advanced pastry skills required
- Customizable to your taste preferences
Ingredients
For a 9×24 cm mold (approximately 650g final product):
For the Phyllo Layer:
- 75g shredded phyllo dough (kataifi)
- 10g butter
For the Filling:
- 270g pistachio paste
- 25g tahini
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 280g dark or milk chocolate (choose high-quality chocolate for best results)
Equipment Needed
- 9×24 cm chocolate mold or loaf pan
- Double boiler or heat-safe bowl for tempering chocolate
- Spatula
- Mixing bowls
- Frying pan for toasting phyllo
- Kitchen thermometer (optional but recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Phyllo Base:
- Break the shredded phyllo into small pieces by hand
- Melt butter in a pan over medium heat
- Add the phyllo and toast until golden brown and crispy
- Set aside to cool completely
Making the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine pistachio paste and tahini
- Mix until smooth and well combined
- Fold in the cooled crispy phyllo pieces
- Mix until evenly distributed
Chocolate Work:
- Temper half of the chocolate using the double boiler method
- Coat the mold with a 1cm thick layer of chocolate
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes until set
- Fill with the pistachio-phyllo mixture
- Temper remaining chocolate and seal the top
- Refrigerate for 45-60 minutes until completely set
Pro Tips for Perfect Dubai Chocolate
- Temperature Control:
- Ensure chocolate is properly tempered for a glossy finish
- Keep working area cool to prevent chocolate from blooming
- Texture Balance:
- Don’t over-crush the phyllo – keep some pieces larger for texture
- Press the filling gently to avoid air pockets
- Storage and Serving:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator
- Bring to room temperature 15 minutes before serving
- Can be stored for up to 2 weeks
Variations and Substitutions
- Try different nuts: almonds or hazelnuts work well
- Experiment with chocolate types: white, dark, or milk chocolate
- Add spices like cardamom or cinnamon to the filling
- Create mini versions using smaller molds
Serving Suggestions
- Cut into thin slices for elegant presentation
- Serve with Turkish coffee or mint tea
- Garnish with crushed pistachios
- Perfect for special occasions like Eid, weddings, or dinner parties
Nutritional Information
(Per 50g serving)
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This dessert can be made up to 2 weeks in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Why did my chocolate develop white spots?
This is called blooming and happens when chocolate isn’t properly tempered or experiences temperature fluctuations. Follow the tempering instructions carefully to avoid this.
Can I freeze this dessert?
While possible, freezing isn’t recommended as it can affect the texture of the phyllo and chocolate.
How do I achieve the perfect chocolate coating?
Proper tempering is key. Use a thermometer if possible, and ensure your chocolate reaches the correct temperatures during the tempering process.
Conclusion
This Dubai Chocolate recipe brings together the best of Middle Eastern dessert traditions with modern chocolate-making techniques. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of crispy phyllo, rich pistachio filling, and smooth chocolate creates an unforgettable dessert experience that will have your guests asking for the recipe!
Remember to tag us in your creations and share your experience making this delightful treat. Happy baking! 🍫✨