The Best Dubai Chocolate Cups Recipe Filled with Crunchy Pistachio

If you’ve been a fan of the viral Dubai chocolate flavor recently, then you need to try this newest version of it! It’s the same great flavors and textures that you love, but in cup form, similar to a Reese’s! The difference is that you end up with the iconic Dubai chocolate bar inside instead of peanut butter (and a lot of it! We don’t skimp over here!)

A delicious blend of chocolate, sweet and nutty pistachio cream, and buttery kataifi is wrapped up in a bite-size treat that you can enjoy anytime the cravings hit! It really is a treat, both visually and tastefully.

Since you are here and love new and trendy recipe ideas, check out this Viral Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe, this Dubai Chocolate Date Bark Recipe, or these Brown Butter Pistachio Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Ingredients for this Dubai chocolate cups recipe

Here are the ingredients you will need to make this chocolate pistachio dessert. Scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of the page for the detailed ingredient measurements. 

• Dark or Milk Chocolate: forms the outer shell of the chocolate cups.
• Coconut Oil: helps the chocolate melt more smoothly and gives the shell a glossy finish.
• Kataifi Pastry: adds an amazing crunch and delicate texture that contrasts the creamy filling.
• Unsalted Butter: helps toast the kataifi to a nutty flavor.
• Pistachio Cream: is the star of the show and provides a smooth texture and a luxuriously sweet taste.
• Tahini: enhances the filling with a subtle sesame richness.
• Pinch of Sea Salt: brings out the flavors of the chocolate, nuts, and tahini.

How to make this Dubai chocolate cups recipe

This is how you can make this pistachio chocolate dessert. Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the end of this post for the full step-by-step instructions! 

1. Heat a pan over medium-low heat and melt the butter.
2. Add the kataifi dough, stirring continuously, until it turns golden brown and crisp.
3. Remove from the heat and allow it to cool slightly before incorporating it into the filling.

1. In a large bowl or in the pan you toasted them in, combine the toasted kataifi, pistachio spread, tahini, and a pinch of sea salt.
2. Stir until evenly mixed, then set aside.

1. Melt the chocolate and coconut oil together using a double boiler or by microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
2. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners as the chocolate melts.
3. Pour a small amount of melted chocolate sauce into each liner, spreading it slightly up the sides to form a base.
4. Place the tray in the freezer or fridge until the chocolate firms up.

1. Spoon the prepared filling into each chocolate mold and press it down with a spoon.
2. Pour additional melted chocolate over the filling, ensuring it is fully covered.
3. Lightly tap the tray on the counter to eliminate any air bubbles.

1. Refrigerate until the chocolate has completely set.
2. For an extra touch, drizzle with more melted chocolate and sprinkle with crunchy pistachios and sea salt, then allowing that to set before serving.

Dubai Chocolate Cups Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Toast the kataifi well to make sure it reaches a crispy, golden brown color for the best crunch.
• Balance the sweetness by tasting your pistachio spread first and then choose between dark or milk chocolate.
• Let them sit at room temperature before serving for the best texture and smoothest bite.

Why do you need to make this recipe?

• There’s no need to travel to the United Arab Emirates when you can make your own version of this recipe at home.
• It’s perfect for special holidays like Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day.
• It’s a delicious recipe that adds a little diversity to your dessert repertoire.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ

Should I use chocolate chips or a chocolate bar for the shell?

You can use either for this recipe as long as it’s a high quality chocolate brand because you will taste it!

Where can I find kataifi phyllo dough?

If you have international, Asian, or Middle Eastern grocery stores, you should be able to find it there. If not, you can always get it online on Amazon. If you still can’t get any to you, chopped and toasted vermicelli noodles or shredded wheat cereal can be used as a substitute.

Should I use milk or dark chocolate?

If you want it sweeter, use milk chocolate. If you want it to be less sweet and more balanced, use dark chocolate. I would say it would depend on how sweet your pistachio spread is since they’re all different.

How do I store my leftover Dubai chocolate cups?

Place your leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 or 4 days. Or you can freeze them up to a month or two.

What flavor variations can I try?

• Use white chocolate​ for the shell instead of regular chocolate.
• Use almond butter, Biscoff spread, or peanut butter instead of the pistachio paste.
• Instead of topping with fresh pistachios, use freeze-dried fruits like raspberries, mangoes , and strawberries.

The Best Dubai Chocolate Cups Recipe

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