Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe

If youโ€™ve ever dreamed of turning a decadent vacation memory into a treat you can share at home, youโ€™re about to fall hard for this Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe! Imagine layers of rich chocolate, aromas of toasted pistachio, and just a hint of fragrant spices, all wrapped up in a bar that feels both opulent and comforting. This dessert boasts a blend of Middle Eastern flair with your favorite luxuries from a classic chocolate bar. The best part? Itโ€™s just as fun to make as it is to eat, whether youโ€™re hosting friends or treating yourself to a well-earned sweet snack. Letโ€™s step into the magic!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are easy to find but absolutely key for achieving the signature taste and glossy finish of the Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe. Each one pulls its weight, from creamy chocolate and crunchy pistachios to a whisper of cardamom that sets this bar apart.

  • Dark Chocolate: Use a quality dark chocolate (at least 60% cacao) for deep, luxurious flavor and a perfectly snappy texture.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Acts as the luscious glue holding every bite together, giving the bars a chewy, fudgy consistency.
  • Pistachios: For flavor and aesthetics, choose shelled and unsalted pistachios โ€” roughly chopped for vibrant color and pleasant crunch.
  • Digestive Biscuits: Crushed for a subtle, toasty base that adds structure and nostalgic notes to the bars.
  • Ground Cardamom: A tiny pinch transforms the chocolate, infusing it with Middle Eastern warmth and surprising depth.
  • Sea Salt: To balance sweetness with savory sparkle; a light sprinkle on top is all you need.
  • Butter: Adds richness and ensures the bar slices smoothly every time.

How to Make Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by lining an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, letting a bit hang over two opposite edges (youโ€™ll thank me when itโ€™s time to lift the bars out!). Crush those digestive biscuits โ€” either in a food processor or with a rolling pin โ€” until you have fine, sandy crumbs. Melt butter and mix it into the biscuit crumbs, then press this mixture into the bottom of your pan to create a firm, even layer. Pop it in the fridge while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

Break the dark chocolate into pieces and set over a gentle double boiler, stirring often until silky smooth. Off the heat, stir in the sweetened condensed milk and ground cardamom, mixing until completely combined and extra glossy. This is where the Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe starts to smell absolutely irresistible!

Step 3: Add the Crunch

Fold in most of the chopped pistachios (save a small handful for decorating the top), ensuring theyโ€™re evenly distributed so you get nutty crunch in every single bite. The mixture will be rich and thick โ€” perfect for layering over your biscuit base.

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

Pour the chocolate mixture over your chilled biscuit base, spreading evenly with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. Sprinkle the reserved pistachios and a good pinch of flaky sea salt over the top. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until fully set. This step is key to getting those crisp, picture-perfect slices that make the Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe so visually stunning.

Step 5: Slice and Enjoy

Lift the slab from the pan using the parchment overhang and transfer it to a cutting board. Dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe dry for super clean cuts. Slice into bars or squaresโ€”whatever size feels right for the occasion. Savor immediately, or store for a luxe treat any time!

How to Serve Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe

Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A flourish of extra chopped pistachios and a pinch of flaky sea salt is classic, but you can also get creativeโ€”think dried rose petals for a romantic touch, edible gold leaf for a wow factor, or even a dusting of cocoa powder to intensify those chocolate flavors.

Side Dishes

Complement these bars with fresh berries, a scoop of pistachio gelato, or a small bowl of tangy Greek yogurt. The vibrant flavors in the Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe shine alongside simple, refreshing plates that wonโ€™t overpower its layered complexity.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the bars pyramid-style for party platters, wrap individual pieces in parchment and tie with twine as edible gifts, or plate them with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for dessert hour drama. This is your chance to make the Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe the showstopper at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigeratorโ€”theyโ€™ll stay fresh and chewy for up to a week. If youโ€™ve sprinkled toppings, store with a sheet of parchment between layers to prevent sticking and preserve that just-made look.

Freezing

The Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe freezes exceptionally well! Once sliced, arrange the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Theyโ€™ll keep their texture and flavor for up to 2 months. Just let them thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

Because these are served chilled or at room temperature, no reheating is required. If you prefer a softer texture, simply leave a portion out on the counter for 10-15 minutes before indulging.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely, though the result will be sweeter and a bit less intense. If you love a creamier bar, milk chocolate is a delicious substitute, but keep in mind it will change the signature character of your Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe.

What can I use instead of digestive biscuits?

Graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or any plain, crisp cookie will do the trick. They’re excellent for lending a sturdy texture and mild flavor to the base.

Do I have to use cardamom?

Cardamom brings a signature Middle Eastern flair, but you can omit it if you prefer or substitute with a touch of cinnamon or vanilla for a differentโ€”but still lovelyโ€”warmth.

How do I keep the chocolate layer glossy?

Using high-quality chocolate and stirring while it melts (preferably over a double boiler) helps achieve a beautiful gloss. Ensure your bars are well-chilled before slicing for that perfect sheen.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Not as written, since digestive biscuits usually contain wheat. However, you can easily substitute with gluten-free cookies or crackers, making your Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe fully gluten-free!

Final Thoughts

Thereโ€™s something truly special about sharing the Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipeโ€”each bite brings a bit of wanderlust, celebration, and pure joy! Give it a try and treat your friends and family (or yourself!) to an unforgettable, homemade dessert with a dash of Dubai magic. Enjoy every decadent moment!

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Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe

Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 139 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (includes chilling)
  • Yield: 16 bars 1x
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: No-cook
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Indulge in the luscious flavors of the Dubai Chocolate Bar, a decadent homemade treat inspired by the luxurious desserts of the Middle East. This dessert bar blends rich chocolate, nutty pistachios, and a hint of cardamom on a buttery biscuit base, topped with a glossy chocolate ganache. Perfect for special occasions or as a show-stopping addition to your dessert table.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Base

  • 1 1/2 cups digestive biscuits or graham crackers, crushed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Chocolate Filling

  • 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
  • 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream

For the Topping

  • 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
  • 24k edible gold leaf (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed digestive biscuits, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture is fully moistened. Press the mixture evenly and firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Place the pan in the fridge to chill for at least 20 minutes.
  2. Make the Chocolate Filling: In a heatproof bowl, add the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, ground cardamom, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Set the bowl over a saucepan of barely simmering water (double boiler method). Stir continuously until the chocolate melts and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
  3. Assemble the Bars: Pour the chocolate mixture over the chilled biscuit base. Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even layer.
  4. Add the Topping: While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle the chopped pistachios evenly over the top. Gently press them in so they adhere. Optionally, place pieces of edible gold leaf randomly across the surface for a luxurious touch.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate layer is completely set. Once set, use the parchment to lift the bars from the pan. Cut into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife (warming the knife helps get clean cuts). Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

  • To make clean cuts, dip your knife in hot water and wipe between slices.
  • Use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
  • You may substitute almonds or walnuts for pistachios.
  • The gold leaf is purely for presentation and can be omitted.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 16g
  • Sodium: 60mg
  • Fat: 13g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

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