Indulge in a luxurious no-bake dessert inspired by the viral Dubai chocolate bar: Dubai Chocolate Balls with Pistachio Kunefe Filling. These bite-sized treats are crunchy, chocolatey, and filled with rich pistachio cream layered with golden toasted kunefe. Perfect for parties, holidays, or just treating yourself.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kataifi (Kunefe) pastry | 7 oz (200 g) |
| Unsalted butter | 1/3 cup (75 g) |
| White chocolate | 5.3 oz (150 g) |
| Natural pistachio butter | 5.3 oz (150 g) |
| Neutral vegetable oil (opt.) | 1.5 tsp |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
| Dark chocolate (55–65%) | 14 oz (400 g), melted & tempered |
| Chopped pistachios | 3 tbsp (for garnish) |
Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Kunefe Pastry
- Shred or chop the kataifi pastry into 1-inch pieces.
- In a skillet, melt butter and toast the pastry over medium heat.
- Stir constantly until golden and crispy, about 10 minutes. Let it cool.
Step 2: Make the Pistachio Kunefe Filling
- Melt the white chocolate and optional oil in a microwave or double boiler.
- Mix in the pistachio butter and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Stir in the toasted kunefe and mix thoroughly.
- Refrigerate the filling if it’s too soft to shape.
Step 3: Shape and Freeze
- Roll the filling into 16 even-sized balls (approx. 1 oz / 30g each).
- Place them on parchment-lined tray and freeze for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Chocolate Coating
- Dip the frozen balls in melted dark chocolate, using two forks to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle with chopped pistachios while still wet.
- Let them set completely before serving.
Expert Tips
- For vibrant green color, peel pistachios before blending.
- Toast kataifi thoroughly to avoid soggy texture.
- Want a thicker chocolate shell? Double-dip the balls in dark chocolate.
- To enhance the pistachio filling, add a touch of orange zest or vanilla.
Storage Instructions
- Store in an airtight container.
- Lasts up to 7 days at room temperature, or longer when refrigerated.
Recipe Yield & Time
- Servings: 16 balls
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Prep: 40 min
- Cook: 20 min
- Chill: 30 min
Nutritional Info (Per Ball)
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Sugar | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 298 kcal | 22 g | 26 g | 14 g | 5 g |
Related Recipes Recommendations
Don’t miss our chocolatey favorites and complementary pistachio treats:
- Check out our Raspberry Fudgy Chocolate Cookies for another rich cocoa indulgence.
- Learn more about Homemade Italian-Style Pistachio Cream to elevate your desserts.
- Discover great ideas like Pistachio Mousse with Chocolate Ganache.
- Looking for inspiration? Try these creative Pistachio Rosewater Mousse shots.
Conclusion
Dubai Chocolate Balls with Pistachio Kunefe Filling combine Middle Eastern texture and European richness in every bite. Whether you’re gifting, hosting, or craving, this elegant no-bake dessert is sure to steal the spotlight.