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Luxurious Dubai Chocolate Balls Recipe

4.9 from 83 reviews

Experience the luxurious flavors of Dubai with these decadent Chocolate Balls featuring a crunchy kataifi pastry base, creamy pistachio and white chocolate filling, and a rich dark chocolate coating topped with chopped pistachios. Perfectly balanced with textures and flavors, this elegant treat is ideal for special occasions or indulgent snacking.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Kataifi Base

  • 7 ounces Kataifi pastry (or finely chopped toasted phyllo pastry or crushed cornflakes)
  • ⅓ cup Unsalted butter, melted

For the Pistachio Filling

  • 5.3 ounces White chocolate
  • 5.3 ounces Natural pistachio butter
  • 1 pinch Sea salt
  • 1.5 teaspoons Neutral vegetable oil (optional)

For the Chocolate Coating

  • 14.1 ounces Dark chocolate (55-65% cocoa), melted and tempered
  • 3 tablespoons Chopped pistachios, toasted for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare kataifi: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gently separate the kataifi strands and coat them evenly with melted unsalted butter to ensure a rich and crisp texture.
  2. Bake the kataifi: Spread the butter-coated kataifi strands evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the kataifi is golden brown and crisp. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before use.
  3. Melt white chocolate: Place the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat to prevent burning.
  4. Create pistachio filling: To the melted white chocolate, add natural pistachio butter and a pinch of sea salt. Stir until well combined and creamy. If the mixture feels too thick, slowly drizzle in neutral vegetable oil to achieve a smooth consistency.
  5. Combine kataifi with filling: Finely chop the cooled baked kataifi and gently fold it into the pistachio and white chocolate mixture, ensuring the strands are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
  6. Shape the balls: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into walnut-sized balls. Place them on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  7. Prepare chocolate coating: Melt and temper the dark chocolate in a double boiler or microwave until smooth and glossy. This will give the chocolate coating a beautiful shine and snap.
  8. Coat the balls: Dip each chilled pistachio ball into the melted dark chocolate, ensuring full coverage. Place them on parchment paper and immediately sprinkle with chopped toasted pistachios for extra crunch and decoration.
  9. Set and store: Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature for about 15 minutes until firm. Store the finished Dubai Chocolate Balls in an airtight container to preserve freshness and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Substitute kataifi with finely chopped toasted phyllo pastry or crushed cornflakes if unavailable.
  • Use high-quality natural pistachio butter for enhanced flavor.
  • Tempering the dark chocolate is optional but recommended for the best finish.
  • Store refrigerated for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
  • If desired, experiment with different nuts for garnish such as almonds or hazelnuts.

Keywords: Dubai chocolate balls, kataifi, pistachio dessert, Middle Eastern sweets, chocolate coating, holiday treats