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
Units
Scale
- 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