Dubai Chocolate Balls with Pistachio Kunefe are decadent, no-bake treats that combine the richness of pistachio cream, the crunch of golden kunefe (shredded phyllo), and the smooth coating of dark or milk chocolate. Inspired by the viral Dubai dessert trend, these elegant confections are as impressive as they are easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crisp on the outside, creamy and nutty on the inside
- No-bake recipe that’s quick and easy to prepare
- Perfect for parties, gifts, or dessert platters
- Adaptable with different chocolate and nut options
- Visually stunning and incredibly indulgent
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Shredded kunefe (kataifi) pastry
- Unsalted butter
- Pistachio butter or pistachio cream
- White chocolate (optional, for creaminess)
- Salt (a pinch)
- Dark or milk chocolate (for coating)
- Chopped pistachios (for garnish)
Directions
- Toast the kunefe pastry in melted butter over medium heat until golden and crispy. Let cool completely.
- In a bowl, mix pistachio cream with melted white chocolate (if using) and a pinch of salt. Stir in the cooled kunefe until evenly coated.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and refrigerate until firm.
- Melt dark or milk chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate and set on parchment paper to harden.
- Garnish with chopped pistachios or a drizzle of chocolate before serving.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 12–16 balls
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Chill time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Use white or milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor profile
- Add tahini or coconut to the filling for extra depth
- Shape into bars or cups instead of balls
- Add a drop of rosewater or orange blossom for a Middle Eastern twist
- Use hazelnut or almond butter instead of pistachio
Storage/reheating
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 5 days
- Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw before serving
- Best served at room temperature to enjoy full flavor and texture
FAQs
1. What is kunefe pastry?
Kunefe (kataifi) is shredded phyllo dough, commonly used in Middle Eastern desserts for its crisp texture.
2. Can I use ready-made pistachio spread?
Yes, just make sure it’s thick enough to hold its shape when chilled.
3. Is white chocolate necessary in the filling?
It’s optional—it adds creaminess but can be skipped.
4. Can I temper the chocolate?
Yes, for a glossier finish and snap; otherwise, simple melted chocolate works well.
5. How do I keep the kunefe crispy?
Toast thoroughly and let it cool before mixing with the filling.
6. Can I make these vegan?
Use vegan butter, chocolate, and nut-based pistachio spread.
7. Can I use other nuts?
Yes, hazelnuts or almonds also work beautifully.
8. Do I have to refrigerate them?
Chilling helps set the shape and chocolate; store in a cool place if not refrigerated.
9. How should I serve them?
Best served slightly chilled or at room temperature.
10. Are they gluten-free?
No, kunefe contains wheat—use gluten-free alternatives if needed.
Conclusion
Dubai Chocolate Balls with Pistachio Kunefe are luxurious, bite-sized treats that bring together crisp pastry, creamy pistachio, and rich chocolate in one irresistible bite. Perfect for impressing guests or satisfying a sweet tooth, they’re as easy to make as they are to enjoy.
Print
Dubai Chocolate Balls with Pistachio Kunefe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (+ chill time)
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 20–24 balls 1x
- Category: Petit Fours / Bite‑Sized Dessert
- Method: No‑Bake & Assemble
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Luxurious bite‑sized chocolate balls infused with Middle Eastern flavors, coated in pistachios and inspired by the rich texture of kunefe—perfect for elegant gatherings or a sweet treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (or chopped dark chocolate)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp orange blossom water (optional)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios (plus extra for rolling)
- 2 tbsp semolina (fine)
- 1 tsp powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
- In a microwave‑safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate and butter together in 20‑second intervals, stirring until smooth. Remove and let cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, mix shredded mozzarella and cream cheese until combined into a smooth paste.
- Stir honey and orange blossom water (if using) into the cheese mixture.
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the cheese blend and mix thoroughly until a uniform, thick filling forms.
- Fold in the ½ cup finely chopped pistachios and semolina for texture.
- Chill the mixture in the fridge for 30 minutes to make it easier to shape.
- Use a small cookie‑scoop or spoon to form 1‑inch balls, rolling them quickly in your hands.
- Roll each ball in extra chopped pistachios (and a light dusting of powdered sugar if desired) to coat completely.
- Place the balls on a parchment‑lined tray and chill at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Flavor variation: Swirl in a pinch of ground cinnamon or cardamom to the filling for aromatic warmth.
- Chocolate options: White or milk chocolate can be used instead of dark chocolate.
- Texture tweak: Substitute part of the pistachio in the filling with finely crushed kataifi dough to mimic kunefe strands.
- Serving idea: Plate on a bed of shredded kataifi or phyllo for a kunefe visual twist.
- Make‑ahead: Can be assembled up to 2 days in advance and kept chilled until serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 30 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg