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 loved creating this recipe for a recent family gathering: the combination of chocolate and cardamom-studded caramel with pops of pistachio truly captured the spirit of our celebrations in Dubai.
Ingredients
- Chocolate Base: 200 g premium dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped, 100 g milk chocolate, chopped, 80 g unsalted butter, 80 ml heavy cream
- Crunch Layer: 80 g crushed pistachios, 60 g crushed digestive biscuits, 30 g toasted coconut flakes
- Spiced Date Caramel: 120 g Medjool dates, pitted, 60 ml water, 1/2 tsp ground cardamom, 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- Garnish: Edible gold leaf (optional), 2 tbsp chopped dried rose petals, Extra chopped pistachios
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.
- Assemble 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.
- Swirl caramel and chill:
- Dollop or swirl the date caramel over the crunchy chocolate base.
- Set and garnish:
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set. 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 These chocolate bars quickly became a family favorite: we love sharing them after dinner with Arabic coffee and reminiscing about special occasions in Dubai.
Required Tools
Heatproof bowl, saucepan and double boiler setup, 20 cm (8-inch) square pan, parchment paper, spatula, blender or immersion blender, knife
Allergen Information
Contains dairy, nuts (pistachios), and gluten (digestive biscuits). May contain traces of soy. Always double-check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 325, Total Fat: 19 g, Carbohydrates: 36 g, Protein: 4 g per serving
Save Chill thoroughly before slicing for neat bars. Enjoy these chocolate delights at your next celebration.
Kitchen Help
- → Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?
Yes, you can substitute pistachios with almonds or hazelnuts to match your taste or dietary preference.
- → Is it possible to make this dessert vegan?
Absolutely. Replace dairy with plant-based butter and cream, and choose dairy-free chocolate for a vegan-friendly option.
- → What’s the secret to a smooth chocolate layer?
Melting chocolate and butter gently over a double boiler ensures a silky smooth texture without burning.
- → How do I achieve the perfect date caramel consistency?
Simmer dates with water and blend until they're fully smooth for a creamy, luscious caramel swirl.
- → Can I serve these treats at room temperature?
Yes, serving chilled yields a firmer texture, while room temperature softens the chocolate base for a different bite.
- → What beverages pair well with these desserts?
Strong Arabic coffee or fragrant mint tea complement the rich chocolate and spiced notes beautifully.