Save Pin A decadent collection of desserts inspired by the rich flavors and textures of premium chocolate bars, featuring Middle Eastern influences reminiscent of Dubais opulent dessert scene.
I was first captivated by the concept of chocolate bar desserts when visiting a Dubai patisserie, where Middle Eastern ingredients like pistachio and rose are creatively paired with luxurious chocolate for memorable treats.
Ingredients
- Premium dark chocolate (70% cocoa): 200 g, chopped
- Milk chocolate: 100 g, chopped
- Unsalted butter: 80 g
- Heavy cream: 80 ml
- Crushed pistachios: 80 g
- Crushed digestive biscuits: 60 g
- Toasted coconut flakes: 30 g
- Medjool dates: 120 g, pitted
- Water: 60 ml
- Ground cardamom: 1/2 tsp
- Fine sea salt: 1/4 tsp
- Edible gold leaf: optional
- Chopped dried rose petals: 2 tbsp
- Extra chopped pistachios: for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chocolate base:
- In a heatproof bowl, combine dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and butter. Melt gently over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler), stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Line the pan:
- Line a 20 cm (8-inch) square pan with parchment paper. Spread the chocolate mixture evenly in the pan.
- Add crunch layer:
- Sprinkle the crushed pistachios, digestive biscuits, and toasted coconut flakes over the chocolate base. Gently press down with a spatula to embed the crunch layer.
- Make spiced date caramel:
- In a small saucepan, combine dates, water, cardamom, and salt. Cook over low heat, stirring, until dates are soft and water is mostly absorbed (about 5 minutes). Transfer to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree until smooth.
- Combine layers:
- Dollop or swirl the date caramel over the crunchy chocolate base.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
- Finish and serve:
- Remove from the pan and cut into bars or squares. Garnish with edible gold leaf, dried rose petals, and additional chopped pistachios before serving.
Save Pin Sharing slices of these chocolate creations at family gatherings has become a celebration of both tradition and new flavors. The decadent bars are always the first treat to disappear from the dessert table.
Required Tools
Heatproof bowl, saucepan and double boiler setup, 20 cm (8-inch) square pan, parchment paper, spatula, blender or immersion blender, and knife are needed for easy preparation and perfect results.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 325 calories, 19 g total fat, 36 g carbohydrates, and 4 g protein, making these bars indulgent yet satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these chocolate bars chilled for a firmer bite or at room temperature for a silky, melting texture. They pair beautifully with strong Arabic coffee or fresh mint tea.
Save Pin Slice and store the bars in an airtight container; the flavors deepen and become even more delicious after a day.
Recipe FAQs
- → How is the chocolate base made?
Dark and milk chocolate are melted with butter using a double boiler, then mixed with heavy cream for a smooth texture.
- → What adds crunch to these bars?
Pistachios, digestive biscuits, and coconut flakes are layered over the chocolate to create a satisfying crunch.
- → What is special about the caramel layer?
The caramel uses dates, cardamom, and salt, creating a fragrant, spiced element reminiscent of Middle Eastern flavors.
- → How should these bars be served?
Serve chilled for a firmer texture or at room temperature for softness; garnish with rose petals and pistachios before serving.
- → Can these bars be made vegan?
Yes, substitute plant-based butter, cream, and dairy-free chocolate for a vegan-friendly version.
- → Are there ingredient alternatives for allergies?
Swap pistachios for almonds or hazelnuts; check all ingredient labels to avoid dairy or gluten if necessary.