How to Make the Perfect Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe at Home

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If you’ve been on social media lately, you’ve likely stumbled across the latest dessert craze that’s captivating food lovers everywhere: the Dubai chocolate bar. This luxurious treat, with its rich chocolate shell, creamy pistachio filling, and crispy kunafa (also known as kadayif) layers, has taken the internet by storm. What’s more, search trends reveal that people in Hawaii, Oklahoma, Iowa, Alabama, and Utah are particularly obsessed with finding the perfect Dubai chocolate bar recipe. Whether you’re a dessert enthusiast in Honolulu or a home cook in Oklahoma City, this indulgent treat is easier to make than you might think. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to create a Dubai chocolate bar at home, share tips on where to find ingredients, and explore why this dessert has become a sensation across the U.S. Let’s dive in!

What is a Dubai Chocolate Bar?

Before we get to the recipe, let’s talk about what makes a Dubai chocolate bar so special. Originating from the United Arab Emirates, this dessert is a fusion of Middle Eastern and Western flavors, combining the best of both worlds. Picture this: a glossy layer of premium chocolate encasing a nutty pistachio filling, with a delightful crunch from kunafa—a shredded pastry often used in Middle Eastern sweets like baklava. Some variations even feature Dubai chocolate bar toppings like chopped nuts, dried strawberries (think “Dubai chocolate strawberries”), or a scoop of pistachio ice cream for an extra layer of decadence.

The Dubai chocolate bar has earned its viral status for a reason. It’s not just a treat—it’s an experience. The contrast of textures, from the smooth chocolate to the creamy pistachio and crispy kunafa, makes every bite a delight. It’s no surprise that foodies in places like Hawaii and Oklahoma are eager to recreate this dessert at home, especially after its popularity spiked around late January 2023, according to recent search trends.

Why is the Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe So Popular in Hawaii, Oklahoma, and Other States?

Speaking of search trends, let’s take a closer look at why the Dubai chocolate bar recipe is making waves across the U.S. Based on Google Trends data, interest in this dessert peaked significantly around January 27, 2023, and has since remained a hot topic. The states leading the charge? Hawaii tops the list with a search interest score of 100, followed by Oklahoma (64), Iowa (58), Alabama (43), and Utah (41).

So, what’s driving this trend? In Hawaii, where fusion cuisine is a way of life, locals are always on the hunt for unique desserts that blend global flavors. The Dubai chocolate bar, with its Middle Eastern roots and indulgent appeal, fits the bill perfectly. In Oklahoma and Iowa, the growing foodie culture means more people are experimenting with international recipes at home, and this dessert offers a fun challenge for adventurous cooks. Meanwhile, in Alabama and Utah, the luxurious nature of the Dubai chocolate bar makes it a go-to choice for impressing guests at gatherings or indulging in a special treat.

No matter where you are, the Dubai chocolate bar’s universal appeal lies in its ability to combine familiar flavors (like chocolate and pistachio) with something new and exciting (kunafa). Plus, with related search queries like “kunafa near me” and “where to buy kataifi” on the rise, it’s clear that home cooks are eager to get their hands on the ingredients to make this dessert themselves.

Ingredients for a Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe

Ready to make your own Dubai chocolate bar? Let’s start by gathering the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable treat:

For the Chocolate Shell:

200g of high-quality dark or milk chocolate (choose based on your preference)
1 teaspoon of coconut oil (optional, for a smoother finish)

For the Pistachio Filling:

100g of pistachio paste (you can buy this or make your own by blending roasted pistachios)
50g of powdered sugar
2 tablespoons of heavy cream
A pinch of salt

For the Kunafa (Kadayif) Layer:

100g of kunafa (kadayif) pastry, shredded (available at Middle Eastern grocery stores or online)
2 tablespoons of melted butter
1 tablespoon of granulated sugar

Optional Toppings:

Chopped pistachios for garnish
A scoop of pistachio ice cream (a popular pairing, as seen in related search trends)
Dried strawberries for a “Dubai chocolate strawberries” twist

If you’re wondering where to buy kunafa or kataifi, don’t worry—we’ll cover that in a later section. For now, let’s focus on the recipe itself.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Dubai Chocolate Bar at Home

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s get to the fun part: making the Dubai chocolate bar! This recipe is broken down into easy, manageable steps, so even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll be able to pull it off. Let’s get started.

Step 1: Prepare the Kunafa Layer

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, combine the shredded kunafa pastry with the melted butter and sugar. Toss until the kunafa is evenly coated.
Spread the kunafa mixture onto a baking sheet in a thin, even layer.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the kunafa is golden and crispy. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
Once baked, set the kunafa aside to cool completely. Break it into smaller pieces if needed.

Shredded kunafa pastry coated with butter and sugar on a baking sheet, prepped for the oven.

Step 2: Make the Pistachio Filling

In a medium bowl, mix the pistachio paste, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt.
Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a bit more cream, one teaspoon at a time.
Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed. Set the filling aside while you prepare the chocolate.

A smooth, green pistachio filling being mixed in a white ceramic bowl with a spoon.

Step 3: Melt and Temper the Chocolate

Break the chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl.
Add the coconut oil (if using) to help achieve a glossy finish.
Melt the chocolate using a double boiler or in the microwave (in 20-second intervals, stirring in between) until smooth.
To temper the chocolate for a professional finish, let it cool slightly until it reaches about 88°F (31°C) for dark chocolate or 86°F (30°C) for milk chocolate. This step ensures the chocolate sets with a shiny, snappy texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Dubai Chocolate Bar

Line a rectangular mold or a small loaf pan with parchment paper. If you don’t have a mold, you can use a small baking dish.
Pour a thin layer of melted chocolate into the bottom of the mold, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This will form the base of your chocolate bar.
Place the mold in the fridge for 10 minutes to let the chocolate set.
Once set, spread a layer of the pistachio filling over the chocolate base, leaving a small border around the edges.
Sprinkle the crispy kunafa pieces over the pistachio filling, pressing them down gently so they stick.
Pour the remaining melted chocolate over the top, covering the filling and kunafa completely. Tap the mold gently to remove any air bubbles.
Return the mold to the fridge and let the chocolate bar set for at least 2 hours, or until fully hardened.

A rectangular mold with layers of melted chocolate, pistachio filling, and kunafa being assembled.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once the chocolate bar is set, remove it from the mold and peel away the parchment paper.
Use a sharp knife to slice the bar into pieces. For clean cuts, warm the knife slightly under hot water and wipe it dry before slicing.
Garnish with chopped pistachios or serve with a scoop of pistachio ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

A plated Dubai chocolate bar slice topped with chopped pistachios and dried strawberries beside a scoop of pistachio ice cream.

Congratulations—you’ve just made your very own Dubai chocolate bar! The combination of creamy pistachio, crispy kunafa, and rich chocolate is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Where to Buy Ingredients in Hawaii, Oklahoma, Iowa, Alabama, and Utah

One of the most common questions people search for is “where to buy kataifi” or “kunafa near me.” Since kunafa (kadayif) is a key ingredient in this recipe, let’s explore where you can find it in the states with the highest search interest.

Hawaii: In Honolulu, check out Middle Eastern grocery stores like Ali’i Market or Mediterranean Mart. If you’re on the Big Island, you might need to order kunafa online from retailers like Amazon or specialty food sites like Ziyad.com.
Oklahoma: Oklahoma City has a few international markets, such as Super Cao Nguyen, which often stocks Middle Eastern ingredients. Tulsa residents can try Mediterranean Imports & Deli.
Iowa: In Des Moines, visit Gateway Market or your local Hy-Vee, which sometimes carries specialty ingredients. Online options are also a great bet.
Alabama: Birmingham’s Piggly Wiggly or The Fresh Market might have kunafa in their international aisle. Otherwise, order from a site like Instacart.
Utah: In Salt Lake City, try Middle Eastern markets like Al-Aqsa Market or order online through retailers like World Market.

If you can’t find kunafa locally, you can substitute it with phyllo dough (shredded into thin strips) or even crushed cornflakes for a similar crunch. For pistachio paste, you can make your own by blending roasted pistachios in a food processor until smooth, or buy it pre-made from stores like Whole Foods or online.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Your homemade Dubai chocolate bar is ready to enjoy, but how should you serve it? Here are a few ideas to elevate the experience:

With Coffee or Tea: The rich chocolate and nutty pistachio flavors pair beautifully with a cup of Arabic coffee or a soothing mint tea.
As a Party Dessert: Slice the chocolate bar into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter for your next gathering. Your guests in Alabama or Utah will be impressed!
With Pistachio Ice Cream: Inspired by related search trends, top your chocolate bar with a scoop of pistachio ice cream for an extra layer of decadence.
A Fruity Twist: Add a handful of dried strawberries to the top for a “Dubai chocolate strawberries” variation that’s both beautiful and delicious.

For an extra touch of elegance, serve the chocolate bar on a chilled plate to keep it from melting, especially if you’re in a warm climate like Hawaii.

Recipe Schema

Tips and Variations for the Perfect Dubai Chocolate Bar

Want to take your Dubai chocolate bar to the next level? Here are some tips and variations to try:

Experiment with Chocolate: While dark or milk chocolate works best, you can use white chocolate for a sweeter twist.
Add Spices: Mix a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon into the pistachio filling for a Middle Eastern flair.
Make it Vegan: Use dairy-free chocolate and replace the heavy cream in the pistachio filling with coconut cream.
Try Different Nuts: If pistachios aren’t your favorite, swap them for almonds or hazelnuts.

Don’t be afraid to get creative—this recipe is all about making it your own!

Conclusion

The Dubai chocolate bar is more than just a dessert—it’s a global sensation that’s brought a taste of the Middle East to kitchens across the U.S. Whether you’re in Hawaii, Oklahoma, Iowa, Alabama, or Utah, this recipe is a fun and delicious way to explore new flavors and impress your friends and family. With its rich chocolate, creamy pistachio filling, and crispy kunafa layers, every bite is a little piece of heaven.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, follow our step-by-step guide, and whip up your own Dubai chocolate bar today. We’d love to hear how it turns out—share your creations in the comments below, and let us know if you added any unique twists! Happy baking!

FAQ About Dubai chocolate bar

What is kunafa?

Kunafa (also spelled knafeh or kadayif) is a shredded pastry used in Middle Eastern desserts. It’s made from thin noodle-like strands of dough and is often soaked in syrup or layered with nuts and cheese

Can I make a Dubai chocolate bar without pistachios?

Yes! You can substitute pistachios with other nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, or even peanut butter for a different flavor profile.

Where can I buy kunafa near me?

Check local Middle Eastern grocery stores in your area, or order online from retailers like Amazon, Ziyad, or Instacart. If you’re in Hawaii, Oklahoma, Iowa, Alabama, or Utah, refer to the “Where to Buy Ingredients” section above for specific recommendations.

How long does a Dubai chocolate bar last?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, your chocolate bar will last up to two weeks. You can also freeze it for up to a month—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.