Introduction
The viral Dubai chocolate bar is more than just a sweet treat ,it’s a sensation. Made famous by Fix Dessert Chocolatier in Dubai, this indulgent creation combines silky milk chocolate, crunchy shredded knafeh (kataifi pastry), and a luscious pistachio-tahini cream filling. Thanks to TikTok and Instagram, the bar has gained worldwide fame, with people eager to either buy or make their own.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to recreate the viral Dubai chocolate bar at home, with all the authentic textures and flavors that made it so popular. Whether you’re in Dubai or thousands of miles away, you can whip up this irresistible dessert right in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make 4 large Dubai-style chocolate bars, gather the following:
For the Chocolate Shell
- 400g high-quality milk chocolate (or dark chocolate if preferred)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (optional, for extra shine)
For the Pistachio Cream Filling
- 150g unsalted pistachios (shelled)
- 100g white chocolate, melted
- 2 tbsp tahini (sesame paste)
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk or cream (to adjust consistency)
- A pinch of salt
For the Crunchy Knafeh Layer
- 100g kataifi pastry (shredded phyllo dough)
- 50g unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp orange blossom water (optional, for Middle Eastern aroma)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crunchy Knafeh Layer
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
- Spread the kataifi pastry onto a baking tray, breaking apart clumps with your hands.
- Drizzle with melted butter, sprinkle sugar, and add orange blossom water if using.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
- Let cool completely, then break into small crunchy shards.
Step 2: Make the Pistachio Cream
- In a food processor, blend the pistachios until finely ground.
- Add melted white chocolate, tahini, powdered sugar, and salt, then blend again.
- Gradually add milk or cream until you get a thick but spreadable cream.
- Chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to firm up slightly.
Step 3: Create the Chocolate Shells
- Melt the milk chocolate with coconut oil (if using) in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, or in short bursts in the microwave.
- Using silicone bar molds (or any chocolate bar mold), pour in a thin layer of chocolate and spread evenly with a spoon or pastry brush.
- Tap the mold gently to remove air bubbles.
- Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
- Spoon pistachio cream into the set chocolate shells, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of crunchy knafeh over the cream.
- Cover everything with the remaining melted chocolate, making sure it seals the edges.
- Smooth the surface with a spatula.
Step 5: Decorate (Optional but Recommended)
- For the iconic Dubai-style look, use edible gold leaf, colored cocoa butter splatters, or drizzle with contrasting white/dark chocolate.
- You can also sprinkle crushed pistachios on top before the chocolate fully sets.
Step 6: Chill & Unmold
- Refrigerate for 30–40 minutes until completely set.
- Gently pop the bars out of the mold.
- Let them come to room temperature for a few minutes before eating to get the best texture.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Viral Dubai Chocolate Bar
- Use high-quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the smoother and richer your bar will taste.
- Don’t overfill: Leave room for the top chocolate layer so the bar seals properly.
- Customize flavors: Try hazelnut cream instead of pistachio, or use rosewater instead of orange blossom for a floral note.
- Make ahead: Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days.
Variations You Can Try
- Dark Chocolate Version – Swap milk chocolate for 70% cocoa chocolate for a more intense flavor.
- White Chocolate & Raspberry – Replace pistachio cream with a raspberry cheesecake filling for a fruity twist.
- Nut-Free – Use sunflower seed butter instead of pistachio/tahini for allergy-friendly bars.
Where to Find the Original Dubai Chocolate Bar
If you’re in Dubai, the authentic “Can’t Get Knafeh of It” bar from Fix Dessert Chocolatier is available via Deliveroo and at their shop but be quick, they sell out fast!
Related Reads
- Try our Homemade Pistachio Cream Recipe for other desserts.
- Discover Middle Eastern Dessert Trends You Must Try for more inspiration.
Final Thoughts
Making the viral Dubai chocolate bar at home is surprisingly easy once you break it down into its three main components: the silky chocolate shell, the creamy pistachio-tahini filling, and the crispy knafeh. With a little patience and creativity, you can enjoy this Instagram-famous dessert without hopping on a flight to Dubai.
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