Dubai Chocolate Bars are more than just a dessert they’re an experience. Inspired by the luxurious flavors of the Middle East, this recipe combines silky chocolate, rich dates, and aromatic cardamom to create a treat that feels both exotic and comforting. The Dubai Chocolate Bars recipe perfectly balances sweetness and sophistication, making it ideal for festive gatherings or a self-indulgent treat after a long day.
This dessert reflects Dubai’s culinary identity where tradition meets modern elegance transforming simple ingredients into something spectacular. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or a curious foodie, these bars will quickly become a favorite.
Recipe Details of Dubai Chocolate Bars
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Cooling Time | 1 hour |
| Total Time | 1 hour 45 minutes |
| Servings | 16 bars |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate |
| Category | Dessert / Bars |
| Cuisine | Middle Eastern Fusion |
| Best Enjoyed | Chilled or at room temperature |
💡 Cook Mode Tip: Keep your screen awake while following this recipe to avoid interruptions during the chocolate-melting magic!
Ingredients of Dubai Chocolate Bars
Here’s a clear guide for different yields — whether baking for yourself or a crowd.
| Ingredient | 1x (16 bars) | 2x (32 bars) | 4x (64 bars) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter, melted | ½ cup | 1 cup | 2 cups | Adds richness and smooth texture |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup | 2 cups | 4 cups | Provides depth and moisture |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup | ½ cup | 1 cup | Balances sweetness |
| Large eggs | 2 | 4 | 8 | Bind ingredients and add fluff |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp | 4 tsp | 8 tsp | Enhances flavor |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup | 2 cups | 4 cups | The foundation of the bars |
| Cocoa powder | ½ cup | 1 cup | 2 cups | Choose high-quality dark cocoa |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | 2 tsp | 4 tsp | Helps bars rise slightly |
| Salt | ¼ tsp | ½ tsp | 1 tsp | Balances sweetness |
| Chopped dates | ½ cup | 1 cup | 2 cups | Adds Middle Eastern character |
| Chopped pistachios | ⅓ cup | ⅔ cup | 1⅓ cups | Adds texture and luxury |
| Dark chocolate chips | ¾ cup | 1½ cups | 3 cups | Creates gooey chocolate pockets |
| Ground cardamom (optional) | ¼ tsp | ½ tsp | 1 tsp | Infuses an Arabic aroma |
Step-by-Step Directions of Dubai Chocolate Bars
Step 1️⃣: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Grease and line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit hanging over the sides for easy lifting later. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2️⃣: Melt and Mix
In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and glossy. Add eggs one at a time, whisking after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 3️⃣: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined — avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.
Step 4️⃣: Add the Middle Eastern Twist
Fold in chopped dates, pistachios, and a hint of cardamom. These ingredients bring out the signature Dubai essence — a blend of sweetness, spice, and texture.
Step 5️⃣: Layer the Goodness
Spread half the batter into your prepared pan. Sprinkle a layer of dark chocolate chips, then top with the remaining batter. Smooth out the top gently.
Step 6️⃣: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Step 7️⃣: Cool and Slice
Let the bars cool completely in the pan for 1 hour. Lift them out using the parchment overhang and cut into squares or rectangles.
Chef’s Notes & Variations
- Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut for extra flavor and a tropical flair.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted white chocolate over the bars for a decorative touch.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute pistachios with sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely.
- Healthier Choice: Replace half of the butter with mashed avocado or unsweetened applesauce for a lighter texture.
- Avoid Overbaking: Remove the bars from the oven as soon as the center sets to keep them fudgy.
Local Offers & Ingredient Recommendations
Find high-quality ingredients easily at:
- Whole Foods 365 for organic cocoa and pistachios.
- Walmart for baking essentials like sugar and flour.
- Carrefour Dubai (if you’re in the UAE) for authentic dates and cardamom.
💬 Budget Tip: Opt for store-brand butter and sugar — the difference in taste is minimal once baked
Medical & Dietary Tips
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Low Sugar Tip: Substitute half the sugar with stevia or monk fruit.
- Nut Allergy Caution: Always confirm your nuts are processed in allergy-safe facilities.
- Portion Awareness: These bars are calorie-dense — enjoy in moderation, especially if managing blood sugar.
Storage Instructions of Dubai Chocolate Bars
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | Store in airtight container |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Keeps texture firm and chewy |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Wrap individually for grab-and-go snacks |
Reheat frozen bars for 10 seconds in the microwave to restore their fresh-baked softness.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving)
| Yield | Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1x (16 bars) | 210 kcal | 10g | 27g | 3g |
| 2x (32 bars) | 210 kcal | 10g | 27g | 3g |
| 4x (64 bars) | 210 kcal | 10g | 27g | 3g |
Values are estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredient brands.
Team’s Personal View
Our team at You Cook Recipes loved testing this Dubai Chocolate Bars recipe it reminded us of walking through the spice markets of Dubai, where cocoa mingles with cardamom and pistachios. One of our testers added orange zest for a fresh twist, and another swirled in caramel sauce both were incredible!
Final Thoughts
The Dubai Chocolate Bars recipe is more than a dessert it’s a bite of luxury infused with heritage. Each bar tells a story of tradition, flavor, and indulgence, capturing Dubai’s essence in every layer. Whether you’re gifting them or enjoying them fresh with coffee, these bars are guaranteed to impress.
Dubai chocolate bars are celebrated for their rich texture and luxurious ingredients.
If you’re wondering what Dubai chocolate bars are made of,
you’ll find that each bar combines high-quality cocoa with unique Middle Eastern flavors.
To recreate this indulgence at home, check out our
homemade Dubai chocolate bar recipe
for a simple yet authentic version.
Curious about why Dubai chocolate is unique?
It’s all about the rare ingredients and exquisite craftsmanship.
For those intrigued by the little details, here’s the green ingredient found in Dubai chocolate
that adds a signature look and flavor.
Want to try making it yourself? Follow our
step-by-step Dubai chocolate bar preparation guide
to craft the perfect treat.
Share your creations online, tag You Cook Recipes, and show us your twist on this irresistible treat. Your kitchen deserves a touch of Dubai’s magic today!
