I first encountered the decadent delight of Dubai Chocolate Strawberries during a trip to Dubai. The combination of juicy strawberries, rich chocolate, and crunchy pistachios was unforgettable. This dessert has since gained viral popularity, and for good reason. It’s an elegant, no-bake treat that’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to indulge in something luxurious without spending hours in the kitchen.
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Why You’ll Love These Dubai Chocolate Strawberries
Let me tell you, this dessert is one of those rare gems that feels ultra-fancy but is surprisingly easy to pull off. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, hosting a brunch, or just want to spoil yourself a little (because you totally deserve it), these Dubai Chocolate Strawberries hit all the right notes. They’re rich, fruity, nutty, and look like they came from a chic dessert bar in downtown Dubai.
Here’s why you’ll fall in love with them:
- No-Bake Goodness: Perfect for hot days or lazy evenings when the oven is a no-go.
- Impressively Gorgeous: The layered look in clear glasses is just stunning. It’s the kind of dessert that gets everyone talking.
- Middle Eastern Flair: Pistachio butter, kataifi, and optional rose or tahini bring in those warm, exotic notes.
- Easy to Customize: Go vegan, nut-free, or change up the berries, it’s flexible.
- Fast and Fabulous: You’ll be in and out of the kitchen in under 30 minutes.
Recipe Card
Dubai Chocolate Strawberries
4
servings25
minutes467
kcalA luxurious no-bake dessert layered with juicy strawberries, velvety dark chocolate, and a crunchy pistachio-kataifi mix, Middle Eastern-inspired and effortlessly elegant.
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Ingredients
2 tablespoons 2 unsalted butter
4 ounces 4 kataifi shredded dough, chopped
1 cup 1 pistachio butter
2 tablespoons 2 tahini (optional)
1 cup 1 dark chocolate chips
1 teaspoon 1 coconut oil
1 1 ½ pounds fresh strawberries, halved
Ground pistachios for garnish
Directions
- Prepare the Kataifi Layer: Start by melting unsalted butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted, add the chopped kataifi dough to the pan. Stir continuously as it toasts, it should take around 8 to 10 minutes to turn beautifully golden and crispy. Remove it from the heat and stir in the pistachio butter and tahini (if using). Give it a good mix so the textures combine well, then set aside to cool for about 10 minutes.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your dark chocolate chips with a little coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until smooth and silky. Don’t overheat, it should be just warm enough to pour.
- Layer the Ingredients: Take your dessert glasses (I use 12-ounce clear cups for the wow-factor). Start with a layer of halved strawberries at the bottom. Pour over a spoonful or two of melted chocolate, enough to coat them generously. Then add a nice layer of the kataifi-pistachio mix. Repeat the layers, more strawberries, more chocolate, more crunch.
- Final Touches and Chill: Top each cup with a final drizzle of chocolate and a generous sprinkle of ground pistachios. Pop them in the fridge for about 10 minutes, just enough to set the chocolate, and then they’re ready to serve.
Notes
- Ensure strawberries are dry before layering to prevent excess moisture.
- Dessert can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For best texture, serve at room temperature after a quick chill.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Dubai Chocolate Strawberries
You know when a recipe seems simple, but there are a few little secrets that make it really shine? This is one of those. After making these more times than I can count (for everything from brunches to midnight cravings), I’ve learned a few tricks that make a huge difference.
Here’s what will help you nail it every single time:
- Dry Those Berries: Pat your strawberries completely dry before using them. Even a little moisture can make the chocolate seize up or slide off.
- Cool Down That Chocolate: Let your melted chocolate sit for a minute or two before drizzling. It helps create cleaner, thicker layers.
- Smash the Pistachios Just Right: Don’t leave them too chunky, finer bits will cling better to the chocolate and look prettier too.
- Room Temp is Best: Chill to set, but let the cups warm up slightly before serving for the creamiest texture.
- Get Creative with the Cups: Use small mason jars or champagne coupes if you’re serving a crowd or want to change up the look.
Variations You Should Totally Try
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can stick with the classic combo, or jazz it up depending on your mood, season, or pantry. I’ve played around with a few versions and honestly, they’re all ridiculously good.
Here are some fun spins you might love:
- White Chocolate and Rosewater
Swap out the dark chocolate for creamy white chocolate, and add a drop or two of rosewater. It brings out a dreamy, floral vibe that pairs beautifully with pistachios. - Nut-Free Coconut Crunch
If nuts are off the table, no worries. Toast some shredded coconut in place of the pistachios and pistachio butter. It’s tropical and still has that rich texture you want. - Berry Mix Explosion
Don’t stop at strawberries, try layering in raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for more color and tart-sweet contrast. - Cardamom-Chocolate Love
Add a pinch of ground cardamom to the chocolate before melting. It adds warmth and a slightly exotic twist that’s subtle but unforgettable. - Vegan Dream Cups
Use vegan chocolate, plant-based butter, and a dairy-free alternative to pistachio butter. The result? 100% plant-based luxury.
FAQs About Dubai Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Yes, you can prepare the dessert a few hours in advance and refrigerate. For best texture, add the final chocolate drizzle and pistachio garnish just before serving.
If kataifi is unavailable, you can substitute with finely chopped phyllo dough or even toasted shredded coconut for a different texture.
Absolutely. Use dairy-free chocolate chips, plant-based butter, and ensure your pistachio butter is vegan-friendly.
Yes, almonds or hazelnuts can be used as substitutes, though the flavor profile will change accordingly.
Adding coconut oil to the chocolate helps maintain a smooth, pourable consistency, giving you more time to assemble the dessert.
Yes certainly. A hint of rose water or orange blossom water can add a delightful floral note to the pistachio layer.
Let’s Wrap This Up, Sweet Friend!
Well, wasn’t that fun, and delicious? These Dubai Chocolate Strawberries are officially my go-to when I want something quick, gorgeous, and totally irresistible. They’ve got that perfect mix of crunch, creaminess, and juicy goodness that just feels a little fancy, without any of the fuss.
If you’re craving more Dubai-inspired sweets, you’ll love this ultra-decadent Dubai Chocolate Bar, it’s just as rich and satisfying. Or, if strawberries are your jam, you’ve got to try my homemade Strawberry Ice Cream. Want to switch up the fruit? These Chocolate Covered Apples are a fun twist with the same sweet crunch.
I hope you give these a try soon. And when you do, tag us or drop a comment, we’d seriously love to see your delicious creations!
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