Indulge your sweet tooth with the Dubai Chocolate Bar, a decadent treat that combines rich chocolate, crunchy nuts, and exotic Middle Eastern flavors. This homemade chocolate bar is inspired by the luxury and opulence of Dubai’s dessert culture, blending dark chocolate with pistachios, dates, and a hint of cardamom for an unforgettable taste experience.
Perfect for gifting, party favors, or a personal indulgence, this chocolate bar is simple to make at home yet delivers a gourmet experience.
Ingredients
Makes 6–8 bars
- 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds or cashews
- 1/4 cup chopped dates
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- Pinch of sea salt
- Optional: 1 tablespoon rose petals for decoration
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Melting and assembly: 10 minutes
- Cooling time: 1 hour
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mold
- Line a rectangular baking pan (8×4 inches) with parchment paper, leaving extra overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
- In a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler), melt the dark chocolate with coconut oil.
- Stir continuously until smooth and fully combined.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Texture
- Remove the melted chocolate from heat.
- Stir in ground cardamom, chopped pistachios, almonds, and dates until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Pour into Mold
- Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt and optional rose petals on top for garnish.
Step 5: Chill and Set
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until completely firm.
- Lift the chocolate bar from the pan using parchment paper and cut into desired sizes.
Step 6: Serve or Store
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with coffee or tea for a luxurious afternoon snack.
- Wrap individually for gifting or party favors.
- Pair with dried fruit or fresh berries for added texture.
- Perfect as a dessert accompaniment to Middle Eastern-inspired meals.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Bar (1 of 6) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Total Fat | 22 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 10 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 18 grams |
| Sugars | 12 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sodium | 25 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Dark chocolate provides antioxidants and rich flavor.
- Nuts contribute healthy fats, protein, and crunch.
- Dates add natural sweetness and fiber.
- Cardamom enhances flavor with minimal calories.
Tips for Perfect Dubai Chocolate Bars
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best taste and texture.
- Toast nuts lightly to enhance flavor.
- Stir ingredients gently to avoid breaking chocolate shine.
- Cut bars with a sharp knife for clean edges.
Variations to Try
- Add orange zest for a citrusy twist.
- Incorporate hazelnuts or macadamia nuts instead of pistachios.
- Drizzle white chocolate on top for a decorative finish.
- Add crushed edible gold leaf for an authentic Dubai-inspired luxury look.
The Dubai Chocolate Bar is a decadent homemade treat that combines rich chocolate, crunchy nuts, and exotic flavors into one luxurious snack. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a gourmet chocolate experience at home that’s perfect for gifting, parties, or personal indulgence.
This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can be transformed into a sophisticated dessert that’s visually stunning and absolutely delicious.