Combines chocolate with Middle Eastern-inspired flavors and toppings
Easy to make with minimal ingredients
Beautiful presentation for parties, weddings, or gifting
Naturally gluten-free and customizable
A perfect balance of fruity, sweet, and nutty flavors
Quick to prepare with no baking required
Ideal for holidays like Eid, Valentine’s Day, or anniversaries
Can be made ahead and refrigerated
Fun and impressive treat with minimal effort
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
fresh strawberries (washed and completely dried) semi-sweet or dark chocolate (chopped or chips) white chocolate (optional, for drizzle or dipping) coconut oil or butter (optional, for smoother melting)
Toppings (choose a few or mix and match): crushed pistachios edible dried rose petals edible gold leaf saffron threads shredded coconut white and dark chocolate drizzle crushed freeze-dried berries
Directions
Prepare strawberries: Wash and dry the strawberries thoroughly. Make sure they are completely dry to ensure the chocolate sticks.
Melt the chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate in the microwave in 20-second intervals or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Add a bit of coconut oil or butter if desired for shine.
Dip strawberries: Hold each strawberry by the stem and dip into the melted chocolate, coating it about ¾ of the way. Let the excess drip off.
Add toppings: Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle crushed pistachios, rose petals, or other toppings over the chocolate coating. For edible gold leaf or saffron, apply gently after the chocolate has set slightly.
Set the strawberries: Place dipped strawberries on a parchment-lined tray. Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes until the chocolate is firm.
Optional drizzle: Melt white or dark chocolate and drizzle over the set strawberries for added flair.
Serve or store: Once set, transfer to a serving tray or store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 12–15 strawberries. Prep time: 15 minutes Chill time: 20 minutes Total time: Approximately 35 minutes
Variations
Use white chocolate: Dip in white chocolate and top with pistachios and rose petals for a stunning color contrast.
Double-dipped: Dip in dark chocolate, let set, then dip halfway into white chocolate for a two-tone effect.
Stuffed strawberries: Hollow out the top slightly and fill with sweetened cream cheese or mascarpone before dipping.
Gilded strawberries: Decorate with edible gold leaf for a luxe finish.
Spiced chocolate: Infuse the melted chocolate with cardamom or cinnamon for added depth.
Drizzle with caramel: Add a touch of salted caramel on top for extra richness.
Matcha white chocolate: Mix matcha powder into white chocolate for an earthy green coating.
Saffron and rose combo: Garnish with both for a fragrant, floral finish.
Mini version: Use smaller strawberries for bite-sized dessert platters.
Fruit mix: Use the same method with figs, dates, or dried apricots.
Storage/Reheating
Store Dubai Chocolate Strawberries in a single layer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Do not freeze, as the strawberries will release moisture and affect the texture upon thawing.
No reheating is needed—serve them chilled or bring to room temperature before serving.
FAQs
What makes these “Dubai” Chocolate Strawberries?
They are inspired by the luxury and rich flavors of the region—featuring toppings like pistachios, rose petals, saffron, and edible gold leaf.
Can I use any kind of chocolate?
Yes, use high-quality semi-sweet, dark, or white chocolate. Couverture chocolate works best for a smooth, glossy coating.
How do I keep the chocolate from cracking?
Ensure the strawberries aren’t too cold before dipping, and allow the chocolate to set gently in the fridge.
Do I need to temper the chocolate?
Tempering is optional but recommended for a shinier finish and a firm snap. For home use, simply melting and chilling works fine.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, make them up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the fridge and avoid stacking.
How do I apply gold leaf?
Use clean tweezers or a soft brush to apply edible gold leaf once the chocolate has set slightly but is still tacky.
What kind of rose petals should I use?
Use food-grade dried rose petals—available at Middle Eastern or specialty spice shops.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are best. Frozen ones release moisture and can cause the chocolate to seize or slide off.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use dairy-free chocolate and ensure all toppings are plant-based.
What can I serve these with?
Serve on a dessert platter alongside dates, nuts, and Arabic coffee or tea for a luxurious finish.
Conclusion
Dubai Chocolate Strawberries are the ultimate blend of elegance and flavor—a Middle Eastern-inspired twist on a universally loved dessert. With their vibrant toppings and rich, glossy coating, they’re perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something truly special. Quick to make and endlessly customizable, this recipe turns a simple strawberry into a show-stopping bite.
Dubai Chocolate Strawberries are a luxurious twist on the classic chocolate-dipped treat, adorned with Middle Eastern-inspired toppings like pistachios, rose petals, saffron, and edible gold leaf. Elegant, flavorful, and easy to make, these strawberries are perfect for gifting, special occasions, or impressing guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients
12–15 fresh strawberries (washed and completely dried)
1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
Optional: 1/2 cup white chocolate (for drizzle or two-tone effect)
Optional: 1 tsp coconut oil or butter (for smoother melting)
Toppings (choose any combination):
Crushed pistachios
Edible dried rose petals
Edible gold leaf
Saffron threads
Shredded coconut
Crushed freeze-dried berries
Melted white or dark chocolate for drizzling
Instructions
Prepare strawberries: Wash and thoroughly dry strawberries. Ensure they are fully dry for the chocolate to adhere properly.
Melt chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt the chocolate in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Add coconut oil or butter for a shinier finish, if desired.
Dip strawberries: Hold each strawberry by the stem and dip into the melted chocolate, covering about 3/4 of the strawberry. Allow excess chocolate to drip off.
Add toppings: Immediately sprinkle desired toppings (pistachios, rose petals, saffron, etc.) over the wet chocolate. For delicate toppings like gold leaf or saffron, apply gently once the chocolate is tacky but not fully set.
Place on parchment: Set dipped strawberries on a parchment-lined tray.
Optional drizzle: Melt white or dark chocolate and drizzle over the strawberries using a spoon or piping bag.
Chill: Refrigerate strawberries for 15–20 minutes until the chocolate is firm.
Serve or store: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Notes
Use high-quality chocolate for best flavor and texture.Do not use frozen strawberries as they release moisture and affect the coating.For a vegan version, use dairy-free chocolate and plant-based toppings.Apply gold leaf with clean tweezers or a soft brush.Serve with Arabic coffee, tea, or on a platter with dates and nuts.
