Dubai Kunafa Chocolate Recipe – Gooey, Crispy & Addictive

Recently, I saw the viral Dubai Kunafa chocolate bar making waves online, and I decided to make this Dubai-style chocolate Kunafa dessert at home. 

The result? 

Amazing, I loved it, and you will too.

And that’s one of the best things about social media: we can explore new recipes from every corner of the world. 

However, kunafa is an iconic Middle Eastern food. 

But in Dubai, they took it to the next level by adding a modern twist to it.

So, in this post, I will give you a copycat Dubai chocolate Kunafa recipe, along with some customization and serving suggestions.

 

Why Is It Called Dubai Chocolate Kunafa Bar?

The term Dubai chocolate Kunafa bar became popular on social media. 

And, this dessert has a particular city (Dubai) name because this bar matches with dubai vibes. 

For example, Dubai is known for its luxury; similarly, this bar is known for its elegant presentation and exotic ingredients.

And another thing that makes this bar unique is how the Dubai Chocolate Kunafa bar is made.

Traditionally, Kunafa is made round and doesn’t have a chocolate shell.

But this dubai kunafa is made with chocolate and in the shape of a chocolate bar. 

Plus, it is filled with molten chocolate and topped with pistachio dust and gold leaf, which symbolizes Dubai’s flair for luxury.

 

What Makes Dubai Kunafa So Special?

It is special because this Dubai Kunafa dessert is made with Kataifi (shredded phyllo dough) and traditionally filled with sweet cheese or semolina. 

But in this chocolate Kunafa bar version, it’s elevated with rich ganache and often includes pistachio cream filling, edible gold, and toasted nuts, which reflect the indulgent flavors Dubai is famous for.

 

Dubai Kunafa Chocolate Recipe Ingredients

Here are some ingredients that you will need to make Dubai Style Chocolate Kunafa.

Keep in mind that all these ingredients are essential for crispness, creaminess, and sweetness.

For the Kunafa Base:

• Kunafa dough: You will need 500g of Kunafa dough; it doesn’t matter if you make homemade Kunafa dough or buy it from a store—both options work perfectly. By the way, if you can’t find it, you can also use Shredded phyllo dough for Kunafa’s crispy texture.
• Unsalted butter: You will need 200 gm melted butter to make your Kunafa golden and crunchy. But, make sure it’s a high-quality butter like Kerrygold or Président.

For the Chocolate Filling:

• High-quality chocolate: You will need around 300g of dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even mix (any of them). Milk is good for sweetness and dark is for a more deep flavor. However, you want to choose high quality chocolate and I like Belgian, Swiss, and premium Conventure chocolate.
• Heavy cream: 1 cup of full-fat milk cream for rich and silky chocolate ganache. 

For the Sugar Syrup:

• Granulated sugar: You will need 1 cup of sweetener, and I like Granulated sugar because it’s easily available, dissolves very well and binds with other flavors too.
• Water: ½ cup of water will help you achieve perfect syrup consistency without over-thickening.
• Lemon juice: Just take it 1 tablespoon. It’s a small quantity (and some people avoid it) but it’s a very important ingredient. Lemon juice will prevent sugar from crystallizing and keep the syrup smooth.
• Rosewater or orange blossom water: It’s optional, and if you are taking it, just take one tablespoon. It will just enhance the Middle Eastern fragrance and aroma. However, I personally like rosewater’s fragrance. And it also pairs very well with chocolate, 

For Garnish:

• Crushed pistachios: That’s my favorite thing and you will want to add as many as you want for crunchy contrast and pop of color. However, you can also lightly toast them for a more deep flavor.
• Cocoa powder: Take a sprinkle of unsweetened cocoa powder to enhance chocolate’s richness. I recommend using dutch processed cocoa powder.
• Edible gold leaf (optional): Beside the rosewater, edible gold leaf is another thing that really makes it a luxurious Dubai Kunafa. You should have it if you’re making it on a special occasion.

 

Ingredient Substitutes

If all ingredients aren’t available, then no problem. Here are some substitutes that you can use to make the Dubai Kunafa chocolate recipe while maintaining its delicious flavor and texture.

Kunafa Dough Alternatives:

If Kunafa dough is not available (which might not be sometimes), So you can use Phyllo dough, but shred it finely, so it can mimic like Kunafa dough. 

You can also use shredded pastry sheets for flaky texture. 

Besides this, vermicelli noodles’ unsweetened version is good too. You can also use it, but you have to lightly crush and coat it with butter.

And, If you’re exploring rich but alternative-style desserts, you can try this 2-Ingredient Sweet Potato Chocolate Mousse, it is plant-based and indulgent too.

Chocolate Options:

You can use cocoa for a homemade chocolate filling, but it won’t be really creamy like ganache, chocolate, and you can use it.

Besides this, you can use chocolate chips for ganache.

Nutella, if you want a hazelnut twist, and espresso powder can enhance the richness of chocolate and balance Kunafa sweetness.

Sugar Syrup Substitutes:

Although regular granulated sugar is perfect as it dissolves quickly but it’s not the only option. Actually, you can also use honey, which is a natural sweetener.

And it will also blend well with Kunafa’s flavor. Besides this, maple syrup and agave syrup are also good options.

Vegan/Dairy-Free Alternatives:

You can replace dairy butter with a high-quality dairy-free butter like Miyoko’s or Earth Balance, and coconut oil is good, too. 

• You can use dairy-free chocolate like Enjoy Life or Whole Chocolate. 
• Coconut cream instead of full-fat cream. 

 

How to Make Dubai Chocolate Kunafa (Step-by-Step)

Here is the simple step-by-step process to create Crispy Chocolate Filled Kunafa Dubai Style.

1. Preparing the Kunafa Dough

• First of all, you need to preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350°f).
• Then shred the kunafa dough properly using a hand or a food processor if you have it.
• Pour some melted butter over shredded dough and mix it properly. It will give a golden and crunchy crust.

2. Layering with Chocolate

• Take a saucepan and then heat heavy cream until it starts simmering, but make sure you do not boil it.
• Pour hot ice-cream over the chopped chocolate in a heat-proof bowl and let it sit for around 2 minutes, then stir until it’s properly melted. It will create a rich, silky ganache.
• Then, spread half of the buttered Kunafa dough into a greased baking dish.
• Then, pour the chocolate ganache over the kunafa dough layer and spread it using a spatula.
• Finally, you can top it with the remaining Kunafa dough, but make sure to cover the chocolate completely.

3. Baking to Perfection

• Place the baking dish in a preheated oven. 
• You would want to bake for around 40 minutes until you do not see them turning golden and crispy. However, make sure to rotate the dish halfway.

4. Adding the Sugar Syrup

While you’re baking the Kunafa in an oven,  you’d want to prepare the sugar syrup; here is how you’ll do it:

• Take a saucepan and then combine sugar, water, and lemon juice and bring it to a boil. After that, reduce heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until it’s a bit thick.
• After that, you will add rose water or orange blossom water; although it’s optional, I recommend you try it.
• Once Kunafa is ready in the oven, let it sit for about 5 minutes, and then pour this warm syrup over Kunafa and avoid oversoaking to keep the crispy texture.

5. Garnishing

• You can sprinkle some crushed pistachios, almonds, or any other dry fruit for crunch.
• You can dust it with cocoa powder for an extra chocolatey touch.
• If you want a luxurious finish, just place some edible gold leaf on the top.

There was a simple process of making the Dubai Kunafa chocolate recipe.

However, once you make it, once you cook it, then let it sit for around 10 minutes before slicing and allow the syrup to settle. Then you can serve it and enjoy it.

 

Expert Tips for Dubai Kunafa Chocolate (Crispy & Rich!)

Here are some useful tips. If you follow them, you will have the best Dubai Kunafa chocolate recipe.

• Crispy Texture: If you want crispy texture in your Kunafa, then make sure its dough is perfectly coated with melted butter. If needed, you can even toast the dough with your hand to distribute butter.
• Balanced Sweetness: You should adjust sugar syrup based on your own taste. In the beginning, you should add less sugar and start tasting it, and you can keep adding until you achieve the perfect taste.
• Chocolate Choice: You should use high-quality chocolate for Kunafa, such as Lindt, Valrhona, or premium couverture chocolate. They melt beautifully and they also have good flavor. And if you’re craving a more festive chocolate treat, you might enjoy this M&M’s Toasty Holiday Peanut Chocolate recipe.
• Avoid Sogginess: You need to pour warm sugar syrup over the Dubai chocolate kunafa. (I mean it needs to be warm but not piping hot). Plus you need to let it absorb gradually.
• Even Baking: If the Kunafa’s top is not browning, then place it under a boiler for around 2-3 minutes until you see it turning gold. Just keep an eye on that, otherwise it will burn.
• Serving Tip: I really like warm Kunafa and I think you should also serve it the same, make it whenever you want to eat, or if it gets chilled, then next time when you serve, just throw it in the microwave for a few minutes to maintain its crispiness.

 

Nutrition Value: Is Chocolate Kunafa a Guilty Pleasure?

What will you get in Dubai kunafa chocolate? Here’s a quick nutritional breakdown per serving (approx. 100g):

• Calories: 350-400
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Fats: 20-25g
• Sugars: 25-30g

 

What to Serve with Dubai Kunafa Chocolate

Here are some of the best things that you can serve, along with the chocolaty Kunafa, to enhance your overall experience.

Beverages:

• Arabic Coffee: It has bold, bitter notes, and it’ll balance kunafa sweetness.
• Mint Tea: It’s a refreshing, palate-cleansing option that will complement the kunafa dessert’s sweetness.
• Hot Chocolate: You can pair it for an ultra-indulgent pairing like this Williams Sonoma Hot Chocolate Recipe if you like a velvety smooth drink that can complement the richness of Kunafa.

Desserts:

• Baklava: Layers of flaky pastry, nuts, and syrup make this a complementary Middle Eastern classic.
• Chocolate Covered Dates with Almond Butter: A naturally sweet, chewy pairing that blends well with the Arabic chocolate dessert vibes.
• White Chocolate Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries: For a fruity yet creamy pairing, this brings fresh contrast to Kunafa.

Savory Pairings:

• Cheese Platter (Halloumi or Akkawi): They’re a salty Middle Eastern dessert – to balance sweetness.
• Zaatar Manakish: It’s a herb-infused flatbread that offers a contrast of flavors and makes it a great option before or after dessert.
• Spicy Chicken Mole Without Chocolate: For an unusual savory twist before dessert

 

Custom Variations for Dubai Chocolate Kunafa Recipe

Now you know the classic recipe of Dubai Kunafa chocolate. However, here are some small things which can change the Kunafa.

• You can use white chocolate to make Kunafa instead of using dark chocolate.
• Consider adding Nutella for richness.
• All these ingredients that I have mentioned are available in plant-based versions, so you can also use them.

 

Conclusion

This is an authentic Dubai-style chocolate Kunafa bar, and It is inspired by the traditional Middle Eastern dessert but elevated with a luxurious twist.

It’s one of the famous Dubai chocolate recipes that is made with Arabic pistachio chocolate, rose-scented syrup, and have golden textures in every bite.

One more thing that I really like about this Dubai Kunafa chocolate recipe is that it can be paired with many things like beverages, Arabic coffee, mint tea, cold drinks.

Or even with other chocolate-based treats like this Dubai-style Baskin Robbins Chocolate Bar for a luxurious dessert platter experience.

It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for special occasions.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Chocolate Kunafa

Here are some more things that you need to know about the Dubai Kunafa chocolate recipe. And it will help you make it perfect.

What is Dubai Kunafa Chocolate made of?

Dubai Kunafa chocolate is made of shredded Kataifi dough, and it is filled with a rich chocolate ganache, soaked in sugar syrup. 

Plus, it is topped with crushed pistachios and gold leaf (It is optional).

How do I make the Dubai chocolate bar at home?

To make the Dubai chocolate Kunafa bar at home, you will need to layer buttered Kunafa dough with melted chocolate ganache. 

Then, bake it until crisp. Once done, you can drizzle with sugar syrup. And top with pistachios and gold leaf for the Dubai signature finish.

Can I use phyllo instead of Kunafa dough?

Yes, you can use shredded phyllo dough as a substitute for Kunafa dough. However, you want to make sure to shred it properly and coat it well with butter. 

So that it can mimic the traditional crispy texture.

Is Dubai Kunafa chocolate healthy?

This Dubai Kunafa chocolate is indulgent, and it has approximately 350 to 400 calories per 100g. 

If you want a healthier version, you can use dark chocolate, coconut cream, and also reduce the syrup quantity.

Can I use store-bought Kunafa dough?

Yes, of course, you can use store-bought Kunafa Dough. It will save you time. But make sure you freeze and fluff it before you mix it with butter. 

What type of chocolate works best?

High-quality dark chocolate and milk chocolate work best for rich flavor. 

These chocolates melt perfectly which is ideal for Kunafa’s indulgence. If you want sweet then mix milk and dark chocolate together.

How do I prevent my Kunafa from becoming soggy?

To keep Kunafa crispy:

• You’ve to pour the sugar syrup while the Kunafa is warm, not hot.
• Use just enough syrup to coat the layers rather than drenching them.
• Bake the Kunafa until it turns golden and crisp for a perfect texture.
• If you reheat it, use an oven rather than a microwave to keep it crispy.