If you’re craving a stunning dessert that balances crunch, creaminess, and fresh fruit with a Middle Eastern twist, you’ll adore this Dubai Chocolate Strawberries Recipe. Imagine juicy, vibrant strawberries paired with crunchy kataifi dough, rich pistachio butter, silky tahini, and luscious melted chocolate—all layered beautifully in a cup. This dessert not only feels luxurious but is delightfully simple to make, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special. It’s a celebration of textures and flavors that transport you straight to the heart of Dubai’s decadent culinary scene.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first joy of creating this Dubai Chocolate Strawberries Recipe. Each component brings its own magic—whether it’s the crispiness of the kataifi dough, the nutty richness of pistachio butter, or the fresh burst from juicy strawberries. Simple yet all essential to compose this layered dessert with depth and indulgence.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Key for frying kataifi dough until golden and crunchy without overpowering the flavors.
- Kataifi shredded dough (4 ounces, chopped): Provides a flaky, crispy texture that is the perfect contrast to the softness of strawberries.
- Pistachio butter (1 cup): Adds a creamy, nutty richness, elevating the dessert’s flavor profile spectacularly.
- Tahini (2 tablespoons, optional): A subtle hint of sesame that adds complexity and a silky element to the filling.
- Chocolate chips (1 cup): Melts down into a smooth chocolate layer that beautifully coats the strawberries.
- Coconut oil (1 teaspoon): Helps the chocolate melt perfectly and gains a glossy finish when drizzled.
- Strawberries (1 ½ pounds, halved): Fresh and juicy, they bring brightness and natural sweetness to the dessert.
- Ground pistachios: For a final sprinkle that adds lovely texture and vibrant color.
How to Make Dubai Chocolate Strawberries Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Kataifi Filling
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the chopped kataifi dough and stir constantly, encouraging even browning. As it crisps up, the aroma alone is irresistible—about 10 minutes until it’s perfectly golden. Turn off the heat, then stir in the pistachio butter and optional tahini to create a luxurious, nutty mixture. Let it cool for about 10 minutes in the pan to allow flavors to blend and the texture to settle.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
While the kataifi is cooling, place the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring thoroughly between each interval to prevent burning and ensure a silky smooth chocolate. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect drizzle that will marry all layers of your dessert.
Step 3: Assemble the Dessert Layers
Take four clear 12-ounce cups to best showcase the beautiful layers. Begin by placing eight strawberry halves at the bottom of each cup. Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of melted chocolate over the strawberries, filling in the gaps for a rich base. Next, spoon approximately 3 tablespoons of the kataifi-pistachio mixture on top. Repeat with another layer of strawberry halves, kataifi filling, then a final drizzle of melted chocolate. Finish by sprinkling ground pistachios over the top for that signature crunch and color pop.
Step 4: Final Chill or Serve Immediately
You can enjoy these immediately for a softer, creamier bite, or refrigerate for about 10 minutes so the chocolate sets beautifully, adding a nice firmness that enhances every spoonful.
How to Serve Dubai Chocolate Strawberries Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate this dessert by adding a touch of edible gold leaf, a dusting of powdered sugar, or an extra sprinkle of crushed pistachios on top. Fresh mint leaves also brighten the presentation and add a refreshing contrast to the richness.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a light cup of mint tea or a delicate rosewater-infused syrup on the side, which complements the nutty and chocolatey flavors without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a twist, try serving the dessert in mini glass jars or short, stemmed dessert glasses. Layering the ingredients carefully ensures every bite is visually stunning. You can also thread some strawberries onto skewers and drizzle them with kataifi and chocolate right before serving for a playful and portable version.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, keep them covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The kataifi filling holds up well, though the crispiness softens slightly. Consume within 2 days for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing the Dubai Chocolate Strawberries Recipe is not recommended because the texture of the fresh strawberries and kataifi changes when frozen and thawed, potentially becoming soggy or mushy.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer a slightly warm serving, allow it to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes, but avoid using heat which could melt and separate the layers undesirably.
FAQs
Can I substitute the pistachio butter with another nut butter?
Yes! Almond or cashew butter can work in a pinch, but pistachio butter gives this dessert its signature flavor that beautifully pairs with chocolate and tahini.
Is the tahini optional?
Absolutely! Tahini adds a subtle, nutty depth, but if you’re not a fan or don’t have it on hand, you can leave it out and still enjoy a delicious dessert.
Can I prepare this dessert for a large group?
Definitely. Simply multiply the ingredients and layer in bigger serving dishes or multiple cups. It’s an elegant treat that makes entertaining easy and impressive.
What kind of chocolate chips are best?
Choose high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for the richest flavor and smooth melt. You can also experiment with flavored chocolates like mint or orange for an interesting twist.
How long does it take to make the whole recipe?
From start to finish, the Dubai Chocolate Strawberries Recipe takes about 28 minutes, making it a quick yet memorable dessert option.
Final Thoughts
This Dubai Chocolate Strawberries Recipe is a delightful journey through layers of flavor and texture that is both simple to make and show-stopping on any table. Whether you’re spoiling yourself or preparing a dazzling treat for loved ones, the balance of crispy kataifi, creamy pistachio, fresh strawberries, and luscious chocolate will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try—you’ll soon discover it’s one of those irresistible desserts that become a favorite to make and share again and again.
PrintDubai Chocolate Strawberries Recipe
Dubai Chocolate Strawberries is a delightful dessert featuring halved strawberries layered with crispy kataifi dough mixed with rich pistachio butter and tahini, drizzled generously with melted chocolate and topped with ground pistachios. This no-bake dessert combines a variety of textures and flavors, perfect for a quick, elegant treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 ounces kataifi shredded dough (chopped)
- 1 cup pistachio butter (or pistachio cream)
- 2 tablespoons tahini (optional)
Chocolate Drizzle
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Fruit & Garnish
- 1 ½ pounds strawberries (halved)
- Ground pistachios, for topping
Instructions
- Prepare Kataifi Filling: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped kataifi dough and cook, stirring constantly, until browned and crispy, about 10 minutes. Turn off the heat and stir in the pistachio butter and tahini. Allow the mixture to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Melt Chocolate: Place the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Assemble the Dessert: Place 8 strawberry halves at the bottom of each of four clear 12-ounce cups. Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of the melted chocolate over the strawberries to fill the gaps. Add about 3 tablespoons of the kataifi pistachio filling on top. Repeat the layering with more strawberry halves near the top, followed by another layer of kataifi filling, a drizzle of melted chocolate, and a sprinkle of ground pistachios.
- Chill and Serve: Enjoy the dessert immediately or refrigerate for about 10 minutes to allow the chocolate to set and flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute pistachio butter with pistachio cream for a smoother texture.
- Tahini is optional, but it adds a subtle nuttiness and depth to the filling.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
- Ensure the kataifi dough is chopped finely for easier cooking and layering.
- Chocolate can be melted on stovetop using a double boiler if preferred over microwave.
