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Authentic Dubai Chocolate Bars with Pistachio Cream, Knafeh Pastry, and Milk Chocolate Coating Recipe

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4.1 from 43 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 bars

Description

Experience the luxurious taste of Homemade Dubai Chocolate Bars featuring layers of rich pistachio cream, crispy knafeh pastry, and a smooth milk chocolate coating. This decadent dessert combines Middle Eastern flavors with a delightful texture, perfect for indulging at home.

Ingredients

Pistachio Cream Filling:

  • 2 cups roasted pistachios (unsalted)
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (or melted coconut oil for a neutral flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

Knafeh Layer:

  • 1 cup kataifi/knafeh pastry (available at Middle Eastern grocery stores)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
  • Optional: A drizzle of honey or agave syrup for added sweetness

Chocolate Coating:

  • 1 cup high-quality milk chocolate chips (or chopped bars)
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a small baking dish with parchment paper to make assembly easier later on.
  2. Make Pistachio Cream: In a food processor, blend the roasted pistachios and powdered sugar until finely ground. Gradually add olive oil, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, blending until you achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
  3. Toast Knafeh Pastry: Spread the kataifi/knafeh pastry evenly on a lined baking sheet. Drizzle melted butter over it. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the pastry turns golden and crispy. If desired, drizzle with honey or agave syrup to add sweetness after baking.
  4. Melt Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the milk chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Stir in heavy cream or coconut cream to create a glossy finish.
  5. Assemble Base Layer: On a flat surface or parchment-lined baking dish, spread a thin layer of melted chocolate to form the base for your bars.
  6. Add Knafeh Layer: Place the cooled knafeh layer on top of the chocolate base and press down lightly to adhere.
  7. Spread Pistachio Cream: Evenly spread the prepared pistachio cream over the knafeh pastry layer.
  8. Top with Chocolate: Pour the remaining melted chocolate over the pistachio cream and spread it out to cover completely.
  9. Chill to Set: Refrigerate the dish for 30 minutes to allow the chocolate and layers to set firmly.
  10. Cut and Garnish: Once chilled, cut into bite-sized bars. Optionally, garnish with crushed pistachios or edible gold dust for an elegant finish.
  11. Serve and Store: Serve immediately or store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • For a more intense pistachio flavor, toast the pistachios before blending.
  • You can substitute olive oil with melted coconut oil for a milder taste in the pistachio cream.
  • Use coconut cream to make this recipe dairy-free.
  • Honey or agave syrup is optional and can be added to the knafeh layer for extra sweetness.
  • Store bars in an airtight container refrigerated to keep the chocolate coating firm and fresh.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Find it online: https://cookinginspirations.com/authentic-dubai-chocolate-bars-with-pistachio-cream-knafeh-pastry-and-milk-chocolate-coating-recipe/