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
- 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.
- 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.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the chocolate mixture over the chilled biscuit base. Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even layer.
- 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.
- 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
