Combines chocolate with dates, nuts, and aromatic spices
Easy to make with no baking required
Perfect for gifting, parties, or special occasions
Elegant presentation with a glossy chocolate finish
Customizable with various toppings and fillings
A unique fusion of traditional and modern dessert styles
Long shelf life—great for make-ahead treats
Naturally gluten-free when made with gluten-free ingredients
Impressive and delicious with minimal effort
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
semi-sweet or dark chocolate sweetened condensed milk butter or coconut oil chopped dates crushed pistachios crushed almonds or hazelnuts cardamom powder sea salt optional toppings: edible gold leaf, rose petals, dried fruit, extra nuts
Directions
Line a square or rectangular baking dish with parchment paper.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate with sweetened condensed milk and butter (or coconut oil), stirring constantly until smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in cardamom powder, chopped dates, crushed pistachios, and other nuts.
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
Sprinkle extra chopped nuts, rose petals, or edible gold leaf on top, pressing gently into the surface.
Let the chocolate bar cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
Once firm, remove from the pan and cut into bars or squares.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge or a cool place.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 12–16 bars or squares, depending on the size of your cuts. Prep time: 15 minutes Chilling time: 2 hours Total time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes
Variations
Use white chocolate: For a sweeter, creamier version, replace dark chocolate with white chocolate.
Add orange zest: A hint of citrus adds a bright contrast to the rich chocolate.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or chili powder for warmth and depth.
Gluten-free version: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Vegan version: Use dairy-free chocolate, coconut milk, and vegan butter alternatives.
Layered bars: Add a base layer of crushed biscuits mixed with butter for a crunchier bite.
Stuffed dates: Fold in stuffed dates filled with almond or tahini for extra texture.
Topped with tahini drizzle: Drizzle lightly with tahini for a nutty finish.
Add shredded coconut: For added texture and sweetness, mix into the chocolate or sprinkle on top.
Rosewater essence: Add a drop or two of rosewater for a floral Middle Eastern touch.
Storage/Reheating
Store the chocolate bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If stored in a cool, dry place, they can also last for up to a week at room temperature.
To freeze, place the bars in a single layer separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
No reheating is needed—these bars are served chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
What makes this a “Dubai” chocolate bar?
The combination of chocolate, dates, pistachios, cardamom, and rose petals reflects the flavors and ingredients commonly found in Middle Eastern and Emirati desserts.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?
Yes, but milk chocolate will make the bars sweeter and slightly less rich. Choose based on your flavor preference.
Are these bars too sweet?
They have a balanced sweetness thanks to the richness of dark chocolate and the natural sweetness of dates. You can adjust sweetness by choosing darker chocolate.
Can I make these nut-free?
Yes, omit the nuts and replace with toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, or leave them out entirely.
Can I use fresh dates?
Fresh dates like Medjool work great in this recipe. Just be sure to pit and chop them finely before mixing.
How do I keep the chocolate from seizing?
Melt chocolate over low heat and avoid adding any water to the mixture. Stir constantly and remove from heat once smooth.
What size pan should I use?
An 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking dish works best for thick, even bars.
Can I add dried fruit?
Yes, dried figs, apricots, or cherries complement the chocolate and nut flavors beautifully.
Do these bars travel well?
Yes, they are sturdy and hold up well at room temperature for short periods, making them great for gifting or travel.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. These bars store well and taste even better after a day or two, making them perfect for make-ahead treats.
Conclusion
Dubai Chocolate Bars are a luxurious fusion of rich chocolate and exotic ingredients like dates, pistachios, and cardamom, creating a treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re preparing them for a special event or enjoying a sweet moment at home, these elegant, no-bake bars are sure to impress. Their ease, flavor, and beauty make them a must-try for any chocolate lover.
Dubai Chocolate Bars are a no-bake, luxurious dessert made with rich chocolate, dates, nuts, and aromatic Middle Eastern spices. Infused with cardamom and topped with elegant garnishes like rose petals and pistachios, these bars offer a decadent, exotic twist that’s perfect for gifting or indulging.
Ingredients
2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
2 tbsp butter or coconut oil
1/2 cup chopped dates
1/4 cup crushed pistachios
1/4 cup crushed almonds or hazelnuts
1/2 tsp ground cardamom
Pinch of sea salt
Optional toppings: edible gold leaf, dried rose petals, dried fruit, extra crushed nuts
Instructions
Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate with sweetened condensed milk and butter (or coconut oil), stirring constantly until smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in cardamom powder, chopped dates, pistachios, almonds or hazelnuts, and a pinch of sea salt.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Top with additional crushed nuts, rose petals, or edible gold leaf, gently pressing them into the surface.
Let the bars cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
Once firm, remove from the pan and cut into bars or squares.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge or a cool place.
Notes
Use high-quality dark chocolate for a richer flavor.Add orange zest, cinnamon, or a drop of rosewater for variations.To make it vegan, use dairy-free chocolate, coconut milk, and vegan butter.For a crunchy base, press in a layer of crushed biscuits mixed with butter before adding the chocolate mixture.Bars can be made ahead and stored for up to 2 weeks in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
