Want to recreate the viral Dubai-inspired chocolate bars in your kitchen? These pistachio-filled treats with a crunchy kunafa texture have taken social media by storm. To nail the recipe, you'll need premium ingredients like pistachio paste, kunafa strands, and high-quality chocolate. In Los Angeles, Gloria's Cake & Candy Supplies is your best bet for sourcing these essentials. Here's a quick rundown of what you need and where to get it:
- Mercken's Chocolate Wafers: Perfect for tempering and creating a glossy chocolate shell.
- Kataifi (Kunafa) Strands: Adds the signature crunch. Toast with ghee for extra flavor.
- Pistachio Paste: Blends with white chocolate for a rich, nutty filling.
- Tahini: Balances sweetness with a subtle savory note.
Gloria's, located in Culver City, offers these ingredients alongside tools and advice for bakers. Whether you're a home enthusiast or a professional, you'll find everything you need to recreate this viral dessert. Ready to try? Keep reading for tips, ingredient details, and a step-by-step recipe.
How to make the FAMOUS VIRAL Dubai Chocolate Bar
Core Ingredients for Dubai Chocolate
Crafting authentic Dubai chocolate means combining four key components that work in harmony to create its signature flavor and texture. The chocolate shell makes up 60–70% of the bar's total weight, offering a smooth and rich base. Inside, a layer of pistachio cream (about 20–25% of the filling) brings the nutty richness that defines these treats. Adding a satisfying crunch are the kataifi (kunafa) strands, while tahini introduces a savory depth that balances the sweetness.
"All I knew in my head is that I wanted to create this chocolate bar that's essentially a dessert encased in chocolate, but looks and feels like a chocolate bar." – Sarah Hamouda, Founder and CEO, Fix Dessert Chocolatier
Each ingredient serves a specific purpose, from the velvety chocolate shell to the distinctive specialty fillings.
Mercken's Chocolate Wafers for Tempering
Mercken's chocolate wafers are a go-to choice for achieving a professional-quality chocolate shell. These wafers melt effortlessly and, when tempered correctly, result in a glossy, crisp coating. Opt for high-quality milk chocolate to create a solid foundation that pairs beautifully with the pistachio filling. The wafers' precise blend of cocoa butter, cocoa solids, sugar, and milk powder ensures a decadent texture and flavor.
Specialty Ingredients: Pistachios, Kunafa Strands, and Tahini
Kataifi (kunafa) strands, a shredded phyllo pastry made with wheat flour, water, vegetable oil, salt, and starch, are essential for the crunch. Toast these strands at 340°F until golden and crisp. Mixing them with melted ghee butter before baking enhances their texture and flavor.
For the pistachio cream, pure pistachio paste is key to achieving an authentic taste. Warm the paste and combine it with white chocolate to create a gooey, nutty filling that defines the chocolate bar's flavor profile. Meanwhile, tahini (sesame paste) adds a subtle nuttiness and helps balance the sweetness. These carefully chosen ingredients work together to deliver the layered textures and flavors that make Dubai chocolate a standout treat.
Where to Buy Ingredients in Los Angeles
If you're looking to recreate the buzzworthy Dubai chocolate trend, every ingredient matters. For those in Los Angeles, Gloria's Cake & Candy Supplies is a go-to spot. This family-run store has been a cornerstone for bakers in Culver City since 1972, offering a wide range of professional-grade baking supplies for both home enthusiasts and commercial bakers. Located at 11117 Washington Blvd., Gloria's combines an impressive selection with the convenience of online ordering and in-store pickup.
Mercken's Chocolate Wafers at Gloria's Cake & Candy Supplies
When it comes to chocolate, Gloria's stocks Mercken's chocolate wafers in several varieties to suit your needs. Whether you're after the creamy 1 lb Mercken's Super White Chocolate Coating Wafers or the rich 1 lb Mercken's Cocoa Dark Chocolate Coating Wafers, both are priced at $9.50. For a pop of color, the 1 lb Mercken's Pink Chocolate Coating is available for $9.25. Not sure which to choose? The friendly staff is always ready to help you select the right type and quantity for your project.
"Amazing customer service and a fantastic selection of baking supplies. They always have what I need, and the staff is incredibly knowledgeable and friendly." – Donyae J.
High Ratio Shortening at Gloria's
To achieve that smooth, glossy finish on your chocolate creations, high ratio shortening is a must. Gloria's has you covered with plenty of options. Whether you're working on a small batch at home or producing on a larger scale, their staff can guide you on the best quantities to get the job done.
"As a bakery owner, I come to Gloria's anytime I need something special or last-minute. They have everything, and the staff is always so helpful and cheerful!" – Jamie P.
Additional Supplies and Services
Beyond ingredients, Gloria's offers an array of tools and services to bring your Dubai-inspired chocolates to life. From molds and decorating tools to fondant, they have everything you need. They even provide 24-hour online ordering and in-house edible image printing for that extra creative touch. Whatever your chocolate vision, Gloria's is ready to help make it a reality.
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Recipe: Dubai-Inspired Chocolate Bars
How to Make Dubai Chocolate Bars: Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
Ingredient Measurements and Preparation
To start, gather 5 oz (about 2 packed cups) of coarsely chopped kataifi pastry dough - make sure it's thawed if frozen. You'll also need 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter or coconut oil, divided: 2 tablespoons for toasting the kataifi and 1 tablespoon for melting with the milk chocolate. For the filling, have a 7- to 8-ounce jar of creamy pistachio butter or pistachio cream, 2 tablespoons of well-stirred tahini, and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt on hand.
For the chocolate shell, use 12 oz (around 2 cups) of high-quality milk chocolate chips (Gloria's brand works well), reserving 1/4 cup for tempering. To create the signature green drizzle, you'll need 3 tablespoons of white chocolate chips - opt for ones with cocoa butter, like Guittard - and 1 to 4 drops of green food coloring (liquid or gel). You'll also need rectangular silicone molds designed for chocolate bars, a large nonstick skillet, and a double boiler setup.
Once your ingredients are measured and prepped, you're ready to dive into the layering process.
Building the Chocolate Layers
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped kataifi pastry and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden-brown and crispy. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Transfer the toasted kataifi to a bowl and mix it immediately with the pistachio butter, tahini, and salt until everything is well combined. Let the mixture cool for about 10 minutes.
While the filling cools, prepare your molds by placing them on a baking sheet. For a decorative touch, melt the white chocolate in a double boiler. To do this, fill a saucepan halfway with water and bring it to a simmer. Place a heatproof bowl over the saucepan and add the white chocolate chips. Stir constantly for about a minute until melted, then mix in the green food coloring if you'd like. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the bottom of the molds in a random pattern and freeze for 10 minutes to set.
Next, melt the milk chocolate in the double boiler. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter, and once melted (this should take about 2 minutes), remove the bowl from the heat. Stir in the reserved 1/4 cup of milk chocolate chips. This "seeding" technique helps temper the chocolate, giving it a smooth, glossy finish.
Final Coating and Presentation
Now it's time to assemble the chocolate bars. Pour about 1/4 cup of the tempered milk chocolate into each mold, spreading it out to coat the bottom and sides evenly in a thin layer. Freeze the molds for 10 to 20 minutes until the chocolate sets.
Once the chocolate shell is firm, divide the pistachio-kunafa filling evenly among the molds. Pour the remaining tempered milk chocolate over the filling, making sure it fully covers the mixture. Use a bench scraper to level the chocolate for a polished, professional look.
Refrigerate the chocolate bars for at least 40 minutes to allow them to set completely. Throughout the process, keep the chocolate between 88°F and 90°F to maintain proper tempering. Once the bars are fully set, gently remove them from the molds. They should release easily and give that satisfying snap when broken.
Conclusion
Crafting Dubai-inspired chocolate bars comes down to three essential elements: premium chocolate for that unmistakable snap, rich pistachio cream for indulgent flavor, and crispy kunafa strands for a delightful crunch. To achieve this, using top-tier ingredients like Mercken's chocolate wafers and high-ratio shortening ensures an authentic and satisfying chocolate experience.
The journey begins with sourcing the best ingredients, and for bakers in Los Angeles, Gloria's Cake & Candy Supplies is the ultimate destination. Known for their professional-grade products and expert advice, they’re a reliable resource whether you're a hobbyist exploring new recipes or a bakery looking to elevate your dessert menu. Their dedication to quality eliminates guesswork, saving you time and effort.
With high-quality ingredients and proven techniques - like precise tempering and thoughtful assembly - you’re all set to create Dubai-inspired chocolate bars that will leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to try them.
FAQs
Where can I find premium pistachio paste in Los Angeles for baking?
If you're in Los Angeles and on the hunt for top-notch pistachio paste, head to specialty stores that cater to both baking enthusiasts and professionals. These shops typically stock premium ingredients, including pistachio paste, ideal for adding depth and flavor to your desserts. Focus on brands that offer a smooth texture and genuine pistachio flavor to make your chocolate creations truly shine.
What’s the best way to temper chocolate for Dubai-inspired bars?
To temper milk chocolate correctly, begin by melting it to a temperature between 115°F and 120°F. Once melted, allow it to cool down to 82°F, making sure to stir it constantly. Afterward, gently warm it back up to 88°F–90°F to reach the perfect texture. This process guarantees a glossy surface and that signature crisp snap. For optimal results, use the tempered chocolate right away.
Why is tahini used in the chocolate bar recipe?
Tahini adds a rich, nutty flavor to the chocolate bar, elevating its overall taste. It also contributes to a smoother, creamier texture thanks to its natural oils. These oils not only balance the sweetness but also bring a deeper, more complex flavor, making tahini an essential ingredient for that indulgent, high-quality feel.
