Save A decadent collection of desserts inspired by the rich flavors and textures of premium chocolate bars, featuring Middle Eastern influences reminiscent of Dubais opulent dessert scene.
I first tasted a chocolate bar dessert accented with pistachios and rose petals in Dubai & was instantly captivated by its luxurious flavor combinations. Experimenting with different Middle Eastern spices and classic chocolate bases at home has become a favorite weekend ritual.
Ingredients
- Premium dark chocolate (70% cocoa): 200 g, chopped
- Milk chocolate: 100 g, chopped
- Unsalted butter: 80 g
- Heavy cream: 80 ml
- Crushed pistachios: 80 g
- Crushed digestive biscuits: 60 g
- Toasted coconut flakes: 30 g
- Medjool dates: 120 g, pitted
- Water: 60 ml
- Ground cardamom: 1/2 tsp
- Fine sea salt: 1/4 tsp
- Edible gold leaf: Optional
- Chopped dried rose petals: 2 tbsp
- Extra chopped pistachios: For garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate Base:
- In a heatproof bowl combine dark chocolate milk chocolate and butter. Melt gently over a saucepan of simmering water stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Set Chocolate in Pan:
- Line a 20 cm (8-inch) square pan with parchment paper. Spread the chocolate mixture evenly into the pan.
- Add Crunch Layer:
- Sprinkle the crushed pistachios digestive biscuits and toasted coconut flakes over the chocolate base. Press down gently with a spatula.
- Make Spiced Date Caramel:
- In a small saucepan combine dates water cardamom and salt. Cook over low heat stirring until dates are soft and water is mostly absorbed (about 5 minutes). Transfer to a blender or use immersion blender to puree until smooth.
- Assemble and Chill:
- Dollop or swirl the date caramel over the crunch layer. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set.
- Serve:
- Remove from pan and cut into bars or squares. Garnish with edible gold leaf dried rose petals and extra pistachios.
Save My family gathers around the kitchen whenever I make this & everyone joins in pressing down the crunch layer and sprinkling rose petals. It turns dessert into a celebration.
Required Tools
You will need a heatproof bowl saucepan double boiler setup parchment paper spatula blender or immersion blender and a knife for serving.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy nuts and gluten and may have traces of soy. Always confirm ingredient labels for allergy safety.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains 325 calories 19 g total fat 36 g carbohydrates and 4 g protein.
Save Serve chilled for clean layers or let warm to room temperature for a softer bite and richer flavor. Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → What type of chocolate works best?
Use a blend of high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa) and milk chocolate for rich flavor and smooth texture.
- → Can I substitute pistachios?
Absolutely! Almonds or hazelnuts offer a delightful crunch and pair well with chocolate bases.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly. For a vegan option, use plant-based butter, cream, and dairy-free chocolate.
- → How do I achieve a smooth date caramel?
Blend the softened dates with water after cooking to create a silky, aromatic caramel layer.
- → Which garnish adds a luxurious touch?
Edible gold leaf and dried rose petals elevate the presentation, while extra pistachios enhance texture.
- → How should these bars be served?
Serve chilled for firm texture or at room temperature for softer, melt-in-the-mouth layers.