Save 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 introduced to chocolate bars with a Middle Eastern twist during a memorable visit to Dubai, where desserts shimmered with edible gold and bold flavors. My home kitchen quickly turned into a testing ground for fusing beloved chocolate textures with date caramel and pistachio crunch, capturing a sense of indulgence and warmth.
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 (pitted): 120 g
- Water: 60 ml
- Ground cardamom: 1/2 tsp
- Fine sea salt: 1/4 tsp
- Edible gold leaf (optional): for garnish
- Dried rose petals: 2 tbsp, chopped, for garnish
- 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.
- Set in 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.
- Finish and chill:
- Dollop or swirl the date caramel over the crunchy chocolate base. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
- Cut and garnish:
- 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 This fusion treat became a family favorite during Eid celebrations, when everyone eagerly waits to taste the first chocolaty slice, its aroma filling our kitchen with anticipation and delight.
Required Tools
To make these bars, you will need a heatproof bowl, saucepan and double boiler setup, parchment paper, a 20 cm square pan, spatula, blender or immersion blender, and a sharp knife.
Allergen Information
This dessert contains dairy, nuts (pistachios), and gluten (digestive biscuits). Check chocolate packaging for possible traces of soy, and always verify ingredient labels for additional allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 325, Total Fat: 19 g, Carbohydrates: 36 g, Protein: 4 g.
Save Every bite of these bars captures a beautiful balance of chocolate, spice, and crunch. Enjoy sharing them at gatherings or savoring a piece alongside mint tea.
Kitchen Guide
- → What chocolate type is best for these desserts?
Premium dark chocolate with 70% cocoa paired with milk chocolate delivers the richest flavor and smooth texture.
- → Can I substitute pistachios in the crunch layer?
Yes, you can replace pistachios with almonds, hazelnuts, or your preferred nuts to suit different tastes.
- → Is there a vegan-friendly alternative for dairy ingredients?
Plant-based butter and cream, along with dairy-free chocolate, work well to create delicious vegan treats.
- → What gives the date caramel its unique flavor?
Medjool dates blended with cardamom and a touch of sea salt provide depth and aromatic warmth.
- → Can I adjust the dessert’s texture for serving?
Serve chilled for firm bars or at room temperature for a softer, more melt-in-the-mouth experience.
- → What drinks pair well with these chocolate creations?
Strong Arabic coffee or aromatic mint tea perfectly complement the rich flavors and Middle Eastern notes.