Save A decadent collection of desserts inspired by the rich flavors and textures of premium chocolate bars, featuring Middle Eastern influences reminiscent of Dubais opulent dessert scene.
I created this dessert after tasting luxurious chocolate confections in Dubai, blending local textures like pistachios and aromatic spices into a unique treat everyone loved.
Ingredients
- Chocolate Base: 200 g premium dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped, 100 g milk chocolate, chopped, 80 g unsalted butter, 80 ml heavy cream
- Crunch Layer: 80 g crushed pistachios, 60 g crushed digestive biscuits, 30 g toasted coconut flakes
- Spiced Date Caramel: 120 g Medjool dates, pitted, 60 ml water, 1/2 tsp ground cardamom, 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- Garnish: Edible gold leaf (optional), 2 tbsp chopped dried rose petals, Extra chopped pistachios
Instructions
- Prepare Chocolate Base:
- In a heatproof bowl, combine dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and butter. Melt gently over simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Shape Bars:
- Line a 20 cm (8-inch) square pan with parchment paper. Spread the chocolate mixture evenly in the pan.
- Add Crunch Layer:
- Sprinkle crushed pistachios, digestive biscuits, and toasted coconut flakes over chocolate base. Gently press down with a spatula to embed the crunch layer.
- Make Date Caramel:
- In a small saucepan, combine dates, water, cardamom, and salt. Cook over low heat, stirring, until dates are soft and water is mostly absorbed (about 5 minutes). Blend until smooth.
- Finish & Set:
- Dollop or swirl date caramel over crunchy chocolate base. Refrigerate at least 2 hours until fully set.
- Slice & Garnish:
- Remove from pan and cut into bars or squares. Garnish with gold leaf, dried rose petals, and additional pistachios before serving.
Save This recipe always brings back memories of sharing sweets with family after a festive meal. It is a showstopper that sparks conversation every time I serve it at gatherings.
Required Tools
Heatproof bowl, saucepan with double boiler setup, spatula, 20 cm (8-inch) square pan, parchment paper, blender or immersion blender, knife.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy, nuts (pistachios), and gluten (digestive biscuits). May contain traces of soy in chocolate. Always double-check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 325 calories, 19 g fat, 36 g carbohydrates, 4 g protein.
Save Serve chilled for a fudge-like texture or at room temperature for a softer bite. Elevate your next dessert table with this stunning chocolate creation.
Cooking Guide
- → How should I melt the chocolates for the base?
Use a heatproof bowl set over simmering water to gently melt dark and milk chocolate with butter, then stir in cream.
- → Can I substitute pistachios with other nuts?
Yes, almonds or hazelnuts work well for the crunch layer and offer a delicious alternative texture.
- → What adds a Middle Eastern touch?
Spiced date caramel with cardamom and garnishes like rose petals reflect traditional Middle Eastern dessert flavors.
- → How do I achieve a crunchy texture?
Sprinkle crushed biscuits, pistachios, and coconut flakes over the chocolate base, then gently press to embed.
- → Does this dessert require baking?
No baking needed—refrigeration sets the layered bars for easy slicing and serving.
- → What can I serve alongside these treats?
Pair with Arabic coffee or mint tea for a harmonious and indulgent flavor experience.