If you’re searching for a dessert that combines luxury, flavor, and elegance, the Dubai Chocolate & Strawberry is a perfect choice. This indulgent treat pairs rich milk chocolate with fresh, juicy strawberries, crispy kataifi, and creamy pistachio for a dessert that’s both visually stunning and delightfully flavorful.
Perfect for a dinner party, special occasion, or an impressive homemade treat, this dessert captures the essence of Middle Eastern flavors with a modern, decadent twist. The combination of textures—from the crunch of kataifi to the smooth, nutty pistachio cream and the juicy strawberries—makes every bite a delightful experience.
With only 20 minutes of prep time, this dessert is simple to assemble yet looks sophisticated enough for any occasion. Its vibrant colors and contrasting textures also make it an Instagram-worthy treat, ideal for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients for Dubai Chocolate & Strawberry
For 4 servings, you will need:
- 600 g fresh strawberries – ripe and juicy for the perfect burst of freshness.
- 150 g milk chocolate – can be substituted with dark or white chocolate if preferred.
- 200 g pistachio cream – adds a nutty, creamy layer.
- 100 g kataifi – shredded phyllo pastry, toasted for crunch.
- 30 g butter – for toasting kataifi.
- Slivered pistachios – for topping and garnish.
Tips and Substitutions:
- Pistachio cream can be mixed with 2 tablespoons of tahini for extra nuttiness.
- Add 50g of white chocolate to the pistachio cream for sweetness and a subtle vanilla flavor.
- The dessert can be layered in glasses, cups, or small jars for easy serving.
- Pre-toast kataifi up to 3 days in advance and store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.
How to Make Dubai Chocolate & Strawberry
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Wash the strawberries and remove the tops. Slice each strawberry in half and set aside. Ensure the strawberries are dry if prepping ahead to prevent sogginess.
Step 2: Toast the Kataifi
Cut the kataifi into 3cm pieces. Heat butter in a medium pan over medium heat. Add the kataifi and toast for about 10 minutes, stirring constantly until golden and crisp. Transfer to a bowl when done.
Step 3: Combine Kataifi and Pistachio Cream
Add the pistachio cream to the toasted kataifi and mix gently until fully combined. If the pistachio cream is very firm, soften it briefly in the microwave to ensure easy mixing without crushing the kataifi.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
Break the milk chocolate into squares and place in a heatproof bowl. Melt the chocolate in short bursts in the microwave at low power or over a double boiler until smooth and fully melted.
Step 5: Layer the Dessert
Take 4 medium glasses and add a layer of strawberries at the bottom. Spoon over a layer of the pistachio-kataifi mixture, then drizzle melted chocolate on top. Repeat the layers again, finishing with a drizzle of chocolate.
Step 6: Garnish
Top each glass with slivered pistachios and optional extra strawberry slices. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor, as refrigeration can harden the chocolate and pistachio cream.
Serving Suggestions
The Dubai Chocolate & Strawberry is perfect for:
- Dinner parties – an elegant and indulgent dessert to impress guests.
- Romantic occasions – ideal for Valentine’s Day or anniversaries.
- Casual gatherings – serve in individual glasses for easy portioning.
Enhance the presentation by arranging extra strawberries or slivered pistachios around the serving plate, or add a small dusting of powdered sugar for a festive look.
Storage Tips
- Assembled dessert is best eaten fresh for optimal texture.
- Kataifi and pistachio cream mixture can be prepared a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Strawberries can be prepped a day ahead, stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but make sure they are dry.
- If the pistachio cream hardens in the fridge, bring it back to room temperature or soften briefly in the microwave before layering.
Tips for the Perfect Dubai Chocolate & Strawberry
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and juiciness.
- Toast kataifi carefully, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Layer gently to preserve the texture of kataifi and avoid crushing it.
- Customize the chocolate layer with dark or white chocolate for a flavor twist.
- Add a touch of tahini to the pistachio cream for an authentic nutty note.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Not drying strawberries before assembling can make the dessert watery.
- Overheating chocolate can cause it to seize or become grainy.
- Skipping softening of firm pistachio cream may crush kataifi when mixing.
Variations
- Chocolate variations: Swap milk chocolate with dark or white chocolate to suit your taste.
- Nut-free version: Omit pistachio cream and top with almond cream or coconut cream.
- Mini dessert cups: Serve in smaller glasses for bite-sized party servings.
- Extra fruit: Add raspberries or blueberries for additional flavor and color.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! Kataifi can be toasted up to 3 days in advance, pistachio cream can be mixed a day ahead, and strawberries can be prepped a day before. Assemble just before serving for best results.
Can I replace pistachio cream?
Yes, almond cream or hazelnut cream can be used as a substitute.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Kataifi is usually wheat-based, so it is not gluten-free. Substitute with gluten-free shredded pastry if needed.
How long will leftovers last?
This dessert is best enjoyed fresh, as refrigeration can harden the chocolate and pistachio cream. If storing, consume within 24 hours for optimal texture.
