How to make Dubai Chocolate!

How to make Dubai Chocolate! is a medium Middle Eastern recipe that serves 12. 210 calories per serving. Recipe by Groark Boys’ BBQ on YouTube.

Prep: 50 min | Cook: 10 min | Total: 1 hr 15 min

Cost: $13.60 total, $1.13 per serving

Ingredients

  • 500 g Dark Chocolate (70% cocoa, high quality for tempering)
  • 200 g Pistachio Cream (Store‑bought or homemade, smooth consistency)
  • 2 Tbsp Tahini (Smooth, unsweetened)
  • 1 tsp Sea Salt (Fine sea salt, optional for topping)

Instructions

  1. Break Chocolate

    Place the dark chocolate on a cutting board and break it into small, uniform pieces to ensure even melting.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Melt Chocolate

    Set up a double boiler: simmer water in a pot, then place the chocolate pieces in a heat‑proof bowl over the pot. Stir constantly until fully melted.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 45°C

  3. Temper Chocolate

    Remove the bowl from heat. Cool the melted chocolate to about 31°C (for 70% dark) while stirring. Use the thermometer to monitor the temperature.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 31°C

  4. Prepare Pistachio‑Tahini Filling

    In a separate mixing bowl, combine the pistachio cream with 2 Tbsp tahini. Stir until smooth and glossy.

    Time: PT5M

  5. First Chocolate Layer

    Line the silicone mold with parchment (if using a tray). Pour a thin layer of tempered chocolate into the mold, spreading it to the edges with a spatula.

    Time: PT5M

  6. Initial Freeze

    Place the mold in the freezer for 10 minutes to set the first chocolate layer.

    Time: PT10M

  7. Add Filling

    Remove the mold from the freezer. Spoon the pistachio‑tahini mixture over the hardened chocolate layer and spread evenly.

    Time: PT5M

  8. Second Chocolate Layer

    Pour the remaining tempered chocolate over the filling, covering it completely. Optionally drizzle extra chocolate on top for decoration.

    Time: PT5M

  9. Final Freeze

    Return the mold to the freezer for another 20 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully hardened and glossy.

    Time: PT20M

  10. Unmold and Serve

    Remove the set chocolate from the mold, break or cut into bite‑size pieces, and serve at room temperature.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
210
Protein
2 g
Carbohydrates
15 g
Fat
15 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑free

Allergens: Tree nuts (pistachios), Sesame (tahini), Potential dairy (if chocolate contains milk solids)

Last updated: April 7, 2026

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How to make Dubai Chocolate!

Recipe by Groark Boys’ BBQ

A rich, glossy Dubai‑style chocolate bar layered with a silky pistachio‑tahini filling. The recipe uses the double‑method tempering technique for a snap‑perfect finish and only requires a few simple steps, freezer time, and basic kitchen tools.

MediumMiddle EasternServes 12

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
1h 5m
Prep
5m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 20m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$13.60
Total cost
$1.13
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Tempering the chocolate to the correct temperature (31°C for dark chocolate) is essential for shine and snap.
  • Freezing each layer (10 min then 20 min) ensures clean separation and prevents the filling from melting the top layer.

Safety Warnings

  • Chocolate can reach temperatures above 45°C; handle the bowl with oven mitts to avoid burns.
  • Use a sharp knife carefully when breaking chocolate pieces.
  • Avoid water contact with melted chocolate; it will seize and become unusable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Dubai chocolate in Middle Eastern cuisine?

A

Dubai chocolate, also known as "kadi" in some Gulf regions, blends the region’s love for rich nuts with European chocolate techniques. It became popular in the UAE as a modern twist on traditional pistachio sweets, often served at celebrations and as a premium gift.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Dubai chocolate in Middle Eastern cuisine?

A

In the Gulf, some versions replace pistachio cream with date paste or almond‑halva filling, and a light dusting of cardamom or rose water is added for aroma. In Lebanon, a similar bar uses cashew‑tahini filling and is called "chocolate halawa."

cultural
Q

How is authentic Dubai chocolate traditionally served in the United Arab Emirates?

A

Authentic Dubai chocolate is typically cut into small, bite‑size squares and served on a decorative platter alongside Arabic coffee (gahwa) and fresh fruit. It is often presented during Ramadan evenings and wedding celebrations.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Dubai chocolate traditionally associated with in Emirati culture?

A

Dubai chocolate is a popular treat for Eid al‑Fitr, Eid al‑Adha, weddings, and corporate gifting. Its luxurious appearance and rich flavor make it a favorite for special occasions and as a premium souvenir for tourists.

cultural
Q

What makes Dubai chocolate special or unique in Middle Eastern cuisine?

A

The combination of tempered chocolate with a silky pistachio‑tahini filling creates a contrast of glossy snap and creamy nutty interior, a texture rarely found in traditional Middle Eastern desserts, which are usually syrup‑based or baked.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Dubai chocolate at home?

A

Common errors include overheating the chocolate, allowing any moisture into the melt, and not letting the first chocolate layer fully set before adding the filling. Each mistake can cause a dull finish, grainy texture, or leaking filling.

technical
Q

Why does this Dubai chocolate recipe use the double‑method tempering technique instead of microwave tempering?

A

The double‑method (double boiler) provides gentle, even heat, which reduces the risk of scorching and gives better control over the tempering temperature. Microwave tempering can be uneven, especially with larger batches of chocolate.

technical
Q

Can I make Dubai chocolate ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can prepare the bars up to three days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze them for up to three months. Bring to room temperature before serving for optimal texture.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the Dubai chocolate is done?

A

The chocolate should have a high gloss, a firm snap when broken, and a smooth, creamy interior that does not ooze. The pistachio‑tahini layer should be uniform and slightly glossy from the chocolate coating.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Groark Boys’ BBQ specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Groark Boys’ BBQ focuses on outdoor grilling, barbecue techniques, and creative twists on classic comfort foods, often incorporating bold flavors and hands‑on demonstrations.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Groark Boys’ BBQ's approach to Middle Eastern desserts differ from other cooking channels?

A

Groark Boys’ BBQ brings a barbecue‑inspired, high‑energy style to Middle Eastern sweets, emphasizing bold flavor pairings like pistachio‑tahini and using outdoor cooking equipment (e.g., portable burners) for tempering, which is less common on traditional dessert channels.

channel

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