This chocolate bar is not your average candy—it’s a rich, layered treat with complex flavors and a beautiful presentation. The combination of high-quality chocolate, Middle Eastern ingredients like pistachios and dates, and optional hints of rose or cardamom creates a dessert that feels both exotic and comforting. It’s perfect for gifting, sharing, or treating yourself.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Dark or milk chocolate (high-quality, chopped or chips)
Sweetened condensed milk
Crushed pistachios
Toasted almonds or hazelnuts
Chopped dates
Butter
Vanilla extract or rose water
Ground cardamom (optional)
Sea salt (optional, for topping)
Optional: edible gold leaf or gold dust for garnish
Directions
Line a loaf pan or square baking pan with parchment paper.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and condensed milk together, stirring frequently.
Add the chopped chocolate and stir until fully melted and smooth.
Stir in vanilla extract or rose water and cardamom if using.
Fold in crushed pistachios, chopped dates, and toasted nuts.
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Sprinkle sea salt or more nuts on top if desired.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set.
Once firm, lift from the pan and slice into bars. Garnish with gold dust or edible gold leaf for an elegant finish.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 10–12 bars. Preparation time: 15 minutes Chill time: 2 hours Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Variations
Add rose petals, dried apricots, or shredded coconut for texture and color.
Use white chocolate and saffron for a vibrant twist.
Replace dates with figs or raisins for a different flavor profile.
Add a layer of crushed biscuits for crunch.
Make it spicy with a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon.
Storage/Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the bars for up to 1 month—just thaw in the fridge before serving. No reheating is needed; serve chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
What makes this a “Dubai” chocolate bar?
It’s inspired by the luxurious ingredients and bold flavors commonly found in Dubai—like pistachios, dates, cardamom, and edible gold.
Can I use any kind of chocolate?
Yes, dark, milk, or white chocolate all work—just choose high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
Do I have to use cardamom or rose water?
No, they’re optional, but they add a unique Middle Eastern flavor that makes the bar stand out.
Is this similar to a fudge?
Yes, it has a dense, creamy texture similar to fudge but with extra richness and crunch.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use dairy-free chocolate, vegan butter, and sweetened condensed coconut milk.
How do I make the bars look fancy?
Top with gold dust, chopped nuts, or rose petals for an elegant, luxury-inspired finish.
Can I serve this for special occasions?
Absolutely—it’s perfect for holidays, Ramadan, Eid, or as a gourmet gift.
What kind of nuts work best?
Pistachios are classic, but almonds, hazelnuts, or cashews also work well.
Can I skip the condensed milk?
Not for this version—it gives the bars their rich, fudge-like consistency.
How long do they last?
They’ll keep in the fridge for up to a week and freeze well for longer storage.
Conclusion
Dubai chocolate bars are a decadent, richly flavored treat that brings elegance and indulgence to your dessert table. Infused with the essence of Middle Eastern ingredients and finished with a luxe touch, these bars are perfect for both everyday enjoyment and special celebrations. One bite, and you’ll be transported to a world of sweet luxury.
Dubai chocolate bars are rich, luxurious treats made with silky chocolate, pistachios, dates, and fragrant Middle Eastern spices. Finished with a gold-dusted garnish, they’re indulgent, elegant, and surprisingly simple to make at home.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:2 hours 15 minutes
Yield:10–12 bars
Category:Dessert
Method:No-Bake
Cuisine:Middle Eastern-Inspired
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 cups high-quality dark or milk chocolate, chopped or chips
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
2 tbsp butter
1/2 cup crushed pistachios
1/4 cup toasted almonds or hazelnuts, chopped
1/4 cup chopped dates
1 tsp vanilla extract or 1/2 tsp rose water
1/4 tsp ground cardamom (optional)
Pinch of sea salt (optional, for topping)
Optional: edible gold leaf or gold dust for garnish
Instructions
Line a loaf pan or square baking pan with parchment paper.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and sweetened condensed milk together, stirring frequently.
Add chopped chocolate and stir until melted and smooth.
Stir in vanilla extract or rose water and cardamom, if using.
Fold in pistachios, dates, and toasted nuts until evenly distributed.
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Sprinkle sea salt or more nuts on top if desired.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Lift from the pan and slice into bars. Garnish with edible gold dust or leaf before serving.
Notes
Add dried apricots, rose petals, or shredded coconut for texture and color.Use white chocolate and a pinch of saffron for a unique variation.Replace dates with figs or raisins if preferred.Add crushed biscuits for extra crunch.For a spicy twist, stir in a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon.
