Crispy kunafa pastry stuffed with molten chocolate, inspired by Dubai’s famous desserts—decadent and irresistible!
This Dubai-style Kunafa Chocolate Bar is a showstopping dessert with crispy shredded phyllo (kataifi) dough, a molten chocolate center, and a golden, buttery crust. Inspired by Middle Eastern kunafa but with a chocolate twist, it’s perfect for special occasions or impressing guests!
Ingredients
For the Kunafa Base:
- 250g kataifi dough (shredded phyllo, found in Middle Eastern stores)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp orange blossom water (or rose water, optional)
For the Chocolate Filling:
- 200g dark chocolate (70%), chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For Assembly:
- ¼ cup pistachios, finely chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Kunafa Base:
- Preheat oven: To 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8x8" baking pan.
- Prepare kataifi: Loosely separate the shredded phyllo dough with your fingers. In a bowl, mix with melted butter, sugar, and orange blossom water.
- Press into pan: Divide the dough in half. Press the first half firmly into the pan to form a base. Set aside the rest for topping.
Make the Chocolate Filling:
- Melt chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, combine chocolate, cream, and honey. Microwave in 30-second intervals (or use a double boiler), stirring until smooth.
- Add flavor: Stir in vanilla and salt. Let cool slightly.
Assemble & Bake:
- Add filling: Pour chocolate mixture over the kunafa base, spreading evenly.
- Top with remaining kunafa: Sprinkle the reserved buttered kataifi over the chocolate, pressing lightly.
- Bake: 20-25 mins until golden and crisp. Let cool 10 mins.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with pistachios and powdered sugar. Slice into bars and serve warm!
Recipe Notes
Tips & Variations:
- No kataifi? Use crushed phyllo sheets or fine vermicelli noodles.
- Chocolate swaps: Try milk chocolate or a mix with white chocolate.
- Extra crunch: Add a layer of crushed biscuits or nuts under the chocolate.
- Serving tip: Drizzle with chocolate syrup or serve with vanilla ice cream!
Why This Kunafa Chocolate Bar Is Special
This Dubai-inspired Kunafa Chocolate Bar combines the best of Middle Eastern and dessert traditions—crispy, buttery kunafa with a rich, molten chocolate center. Unlike traditional kunafa (which uses cheese), this version is all about the chocolate, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
The contrast between the crunchy, golden kataifi and the smooth, melted chocolate is irresistible. For an authentic touch, the orange blossom water adds a subtle floral note that pairs perfectly with the pistachio garnish.
Pro tip: Serve warm for a gooey center, or let it cool for cleaner slices. Either way, it’s decadent!
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