Dubai chocolate has become a sensation, blending Middle Eastern flavors with premium chocolate-making techniques. Here's what you need to know:
- What is Dubai Chocolate? A luxurious treat combining crispy kataifi pastry, pistachio cream, tahini, and premium chocolate.
- How is it made? Toasted kataifi pastry, pistachio paste, and tahini are layered and coated with high-quality chocolate.
- Where to buy? Available online via Amazon, Le Chocolatier, and Petrova Chocolates, with prices starting at $7.95.
- Storage tips: Keep in a cool, dark place (59°F–64°F) with low humidity to maintain freshness.
- How does it compare to standard chocolate? Dubai chocolate offers a unique mix of textures and flavors, unlike regular chocolate bars.
| Feature | Dubai Chocolate | Standard Chocolate |
|---|---|---|
| Texture Layers | Crunchy kataifi, creamy pistachio, smooth chocolate | Usually uniform |
| Key Ingredients | Kataifi, pistachio cream, tahini | Cocoa, sugar, milk solids |
| Flavor Profile | Complex, nutty, and rich | Single-note dominant |
| Size | Larger and thicker bars | Standard bar dimensions |
Dubai chocolate's rise to fame stems from its unique taste and viral success, making it a must-try for dessert lovers.
1. What is Dubai Chocolate?
Origins and History
Dubai chocolate brings together Middle Eastern flavors and top-tier chocolate-making techniques. Fix Dessert Chocolatier, launched by Sarah Hamouda in 2021, introduced its standout creation, "Can't Get Knafeh of It". This treat combines Arabic-inspired ingredients with modern chocolate artistry. Let’s dive into what makes its flavor so special.
Main Ingredients
The unique taste of Dubai chocolate comes from its carefully chosen ingredients:
- Base: High-quality milk or dark chocolate forms the outer layer.
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Signature filling: A blend of:
- Kataifi pastry (thin filo strands)
- Pistachio paste or cream
- Tahini paste
- Enhancements: Butter and salt to round out the flavors.
"The chocolate bar is made of crispy kataifi, pistachio and tahini paste encased in milk chocolate", says Sarah Hamouda. She emphasizes her commitment to ensuring Fix remains "unique and of the highest quality, ensuring that their chocolate is unlike anything else out there."
Product Features
Dubai chocolate is known for its standout qualities:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Texture | A layered experience with crispy kataifi and creamy chocolate. |
| Taste Profile | A rich mix of Middle Eastern flavors and classic chocolate notes. |
| Presentation | Elegant packaging, often adorned with gold-leaf details. |
| Quality | Made with premium ingredients and modern production methods. |
2. How is Dubai Chocolate Made?
Production Steps
Dubai chocolate combines Middle Eastern ingredients with modern chocolate-making techniques. The process starts with toasting kataifi pastry to a golden brown. For a typical batch that produces two 500 g (17.6 oz) chocolate bars, exact measurements are key:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Kataifi Pastry | 150 g (5.3 oz) |
| Pistachio Paste | 360 g (12.7 oz) |
| Premium Chocolate | 500 g (17.6 oz) |
| Tahini | To taste |
"The crunchiness of the kataifi pastry is very important so you need to take time to ensure all of the kataifi pastry is toasted until golden." - Lorraine Elliott, Blogger at Not Quite Nigella
This attention to detail is what gives Dubai chocolate its unique taste and texture.
Common Flavors
What makes Dubai chocolate special is its flavor combinations, inspired by Middle Eastern traditions. The most popular flavor profiles include:
- Base Layer: A coating of premium milk or dark chocolate
- Primary Filling: Pistachio cream blended with toasted kataifi pastry
- Enhancing Element: Tahini paste for a nutty richness
- Optional Additions: Cardamom, saffron, or rose essence for a regional twist
Physical Properties
Dubai chocolate is as much about texture and appearance as it is about taste. Here's what sets it apart:
- Exterior: A smooth, glossy chocolate shell
- Interior: Layers showcasing crispy strands of toasted kataifi
- Texture: A mix of crunchiness, creaminess, and smoothness
- Appearance: A polished look, often with decorative touches
To achieve its signature glossy finish and satisfying snap, a small amount of coconut oil is added during the melting process, and temperature is carefully controlled throughout. This ensures a professional-grade result every time.
3. Where to Buy Dubai Chocolate
US Market Options
You can find Dubai chocolate in the U.S. through retailers like Miami's Le Chocolatier, which offers delivery across the country. Whether you shop in-store or online, it's important to choose carefully to ensure you're getting the real deal.
Online Shopping
When buying online, make sure to check the seller's reputation. Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, unsolicited offers, or websites without proper security measures.
| Platform | Options | Price | Shipping |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon | ZEMUS Dubai Chocolate Bar | $19.95 – $65.95 | Nationwide |
| Le Chocolatier Online | Dubai Chocolate Bar | $20.00 | South Florida + Nationwide |
| Petrova Chocolates | Dubai Chocolate Bar | $9.00 | Select regions |
"They take advantage of the excitement and trust people have in popular brands... To stay safe, [pay] close attention to the details of online stores, especially when offers seem too good to be true."
– Olga Svistunova, Kaspersky Security Expert
Cost Guide
Expect to pay around $7.95 for a small 3.53 oz bar, while a standard 7 oz bar typically costs between $19.95 and $25. Multi-packs can range from $32.95 to $65.95. These chocolates often feature Middle Eastern-inspired flavors like knafeh, pistachio paste, and tahini, making them a favorite among chocolate lovers.
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4. Storage Guidelines
Storage Requirements
To keep Dubai chocolate in top condition, store it in a cool, dark place with temperatures between 59°F and 64°F (15°C to 18°C) and humidity levels below 50%. Avoid direct sunlight and strong odors, as chocolate can easily absorb surrounding scents.
| Storage Condition | Ideal Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 59°F - 64°F | Maintain consistency |
| Humidity | Below 50% | Use moisture absorbers if needed |
| Container | Airtight | Glass or BPA-free plastic recommended |
| Location | Dark, cool space | Keep away from heat sources |
In warmer regions, like parts of the U.S. during summer, extra precautions are essential.
"Because of Dubai's climate, chocolate that is stored badly can melt when it's in transit, or when it sits on your shelf", says Mr. Dveira, emphasizing the need for careful storage.
Following these guidelines helps protect the chocolate's flavor and extends its shelf life.
How Long It Lasts
Proper storage plays a key role in how long Dubai chocolate stays fresh. When stored correctly:
- Dark chocolate can last up to 6 months.
- Milk, white, and filled chocolates are best enjoyed within 2–4 months.
Depending on the type, packaging, and consistent storage, overall quality can be preserved for 6 to 24 months.
Quality Check Tips
"A whitish coating (fat or sugar bloom) on the surface indicates improper storage or prolonged exposure to humidity", notes RecipesKreations.com. While chocolate with bloom is safe to eat, its texture and flavor may not be at their best.
Here's how to check your chocolate:
- Appearance: Watch for discoloration or grayish-white streaks.
- Texture: The surface should feel smooth and glossy, not gritty or crumbly.
- Smell: Fresh chocolate has a rich, inviting aroma without any sour notes.
- Firmness: High-quality, well-tempered chocolate feels firm at room temperature.
If refrigeration is unavoidable, place the chocolate in an airtight container or bag with a silica gel packet to control moisture. Allow it to slowly return to room temperature before unwrapping to avoid condensation forming on the surface.
5. Dubai Chocolate vs Standard Chocolate
Taste Differences
Dubai chocolate delivers a flavor experience that stands out from regular chocolate bars. It combines a rich chocolate coating with a smooth pistachio cream filling and a crunchy layer of kataifi, offering a mix of textures and flavors in every bite. Ingredients like tahini bring subtle nutty notes that are uncommon in standard chocolate. These unique elements give Dubai chocolate a flavor complexity that's hard to match.
| Aspect | Dubai Chocolate | Standard Chocolate |
|---|---|---|
| Texture Layers | Multiple (crunchy, creamy, smooth) | Usually uniform |
| Key Ingredients | Kataifi, pistachio cream, tahini | Cocoa, sugar, milk solids |
| Flavor Profile | Complex, layered | Single-note dominant |
| Size | Thicker, wider bars | Standard bar dimensions |
Feel and Form
Dubai chocolate is physically distinct from its standard counterparts. These bars are larger and heavier, with the inclusion of kataifi pastry adding a noticeable crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth chocolate exterior. This interplay of textures has made it a favorite among dessert enthusiasts.
UAE Heritage
Dubai chocolate is a blend of Middle Eastern dessert traditions and modern chocolate-making techniques. A prime example is the "Can't Get Knafeh of It" bar from Fix Dessert Chocolatier, which perfectly showcases this mix of heritage and creativity.
"We're dedicated to keeping Fix unique and of the highest quality, ensuring that their chocolate is unlike anything else out there." – Sarah Hamouda, Fix founder
More than just a treat, Dubai chocolate has become a sought-after gift during celebrations like Eid, symbolizing prosperity in Emirati culture. Local chocolatiers use regional ingredients such as saffron and dates to make their creations stand out. This combination of flavors and textures not only highlights the UAE's rich heritage but also inspires dessert trends far beyond the region.
Making the Dubai Kunafa Chocolate Bar from Scratch
Summary
Dubai chocolate has made a name for itself by blending Middle Eastern dessert traditions with modern chocolate-making techniques. Fix Dessert Chocolatier, the brand behind this treat, has mastered the art of combining premium chocolate with ingredients like knafeh pastry and pistachio cream. The result? A flavor-packed experience that has captured attention far and wide.
The brand's rise to fame has been extraordinary. What started with just six orders a day skyrocketed to an incredible 100 orders per minute, thanks to its viral success.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price Range | $18.50 for single bars, $105 for a box of six |
| Daily Production | 500 pieces |
| Key Components | Belgian chocolate, knafeh pastry, pistachio cream |
| Market Impact | 56M+ TikTok views; 100 orders/minute peak |
This success story highlights how bold flavor combinations can transform the culinary world - and inspire home bakers too. For those eager to try their hand at creating Dubai-inspired treats, Gloria's Cake & Candy Supplies offers everything you need. With 72% of consumers looking for foods featuring diverse textures, adding elements like pistachio cream and crispy layers to your recipes can help you stay ahead of the curve.
"It's insane what's been happening... To be honest, not at any point did I think this was going to become global." - Sarah Hamouda
Whether you're making stuffed cookies or elaborate cakes, Dubai chocolate's signature mix of textures and flavors is a goldmine of inspiration for your next baking project.
