A Flavor That Sparked a Memory
There’s something unforgettable about the moment you first taste a chocolate-dipped strawberry—juicy, sweet, and indulgent. I remember it clearly from a wedding reception years ago, where those glossy little gems were passed around on silver trays. They felt so luxurious, yet so comforting. Fast-forward to today, and Dubai chocolate strawberries are taking that familiar treat to a whole new level. Think rich pistachio butter, crispy kataifi pastry, and a drizzle of silky chocolate—all layered into a single dessert cup that feels straight out of a five-star hotel.
The trend exploded on social media for a reason. These aren’t just strawberries with chocolate. They’re inspired by the popular Dubai chocolate bars, filled with Middle Eastern flavors and that signature glam touch—sometimes even sprinkled with edible gold. On BrunchsRecipes, we love making indulgent desserts feel accessible, and Dubai chocolate strawberries hit that sweet spot. They’re easy enough for a home cook, but impressive enough for guests.
If you love our rich chocolate desserts or the vibrant creativity in our desserts category, this viral recipe belongs on your table.
Table of Contents
What Are Dubai Chocolate Strawberries?
The Viral Origin of the Trend
So what exactly are Dubai chocolate strawberries, and why has TikTok gone wild over them? It all started with a twist on the Dubai chocolate bar—a layered, ultra-luxe chocolate and pistachio dessert that became a Middle Eastern favorite. Soon, food influencers began reinventing the concept using strawberries, and the combination caught fire.
Unlike the typical chocolate-dipped fruit, these are built in layers. A foundation of halved strawberries is topped with drizzled melted chocolate, followed by a mixture of pistachio cream and crispy kataifi (a shredded pastry dough). That layering is repeated once or twice more, creating a cup full of textures: juicy, rich, crunchy, and creamy—all in one spoonful.
Middle Eastern influence plays a big role here. The pistachio and kataifi nod to classic desserts like knafeh, while the luxurious presentation and golden garnishes reflect Dubai’s signature flair. It’s a treat that looks as stunning as it tastes.
Want to explore more desserts with a cultural twist? Try something from our Middle Eastern-inspired sweets or check out our date-based treats.
Ingredients that Make It Iconic
The magic of Dubai chocolate strawberries is in the details—and the ingredients are part of what makes them so irresistible.
- Strawberries: Fresh and halved, they form the juicy base of the dessert. You’ll want to pick ripe, vibrant berries for maximum flavor and visual impact.
- Chocolate: Dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips work best. Melted with just a bit of coconut oil, it gets that glossy, drippy finish that makes every layer stunning.
- Pistachio Butter: This rich, nutty spread can be found in specialty stores or made at home. It’s what gives the dessert its creamy, savory edge.
- Kataifi Dough: Shredded and toasted, it brings a crisp texture that’s unlike anything you’d expect in a strawberry dessert.
- Tahini (optional): Stirred into the pistachio layer, it balances the sweetness with a subtle, earthy flavor.
- Gold Dust or Whipped Cream: Optional, but if you’re going for full Dubai drama, a tiny sprinkle of gold or a swirl of cream takes it to the next level.
These ingredients work together to create that unmistakable flavor profile—sweet, nutty, rich, and lightly crunchy. It’s what sets Dubai chocolate strawberries apart from your average fruit cup.
How to Make Dubai Chocolate Strawberries at Home
Easy 3-Layer Recipe Walkthrough
You don’t have to book a flight or visit a luxury café to enjoy Dubai chocolate strawberries. With the right ingredients and a little prep, you can make this viral dessert in under 30 minutes. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds fresh strawberries, halved
- 1 cup pistachio butter (or cream)
- 4 oz kataifi dough, chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
- 1 tsp coconut oil (for drizzling shine)
- 2 tbsp tahini (optional for flavor balance)
- Ground pistachios for topping
- Optional: edible gold sprinkles, whipped cream
Instructions:
- Toast the kataifi: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add chopped kataifi. Stir until golden and crispy—about 10 minutes.
- Add pistachio butter: Remove from heat and mix in pistachio butter and tahini until smooth.
- Melt the chocolate: Microwave the chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until glossy and pourable.
- Layer the dessert: In small glass dessert cups, add a base layer of strawberries.
- Drizzle chocolate: Spoon or pipe in a thin layer of melted chocolate over the strawberries.
- Add crunch: Top with 2–3 tablespoons of the kataifi-pistachio mix.
- Repeat: Add another layer of strawberries, followed by chocolate and the nut mixture.
- Top it off: Finish with ground pistachios, and if you’re feeling extra, a swirl of whipped cream or a touch of gold dust.
Here’s a quick reference in table format:
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Toast Kataifi | Butter + chopped kataifi in skillet until golden |
| Mix Filling | Add pistachio butter & optional tahini |
| Melt Chocolate | Microwave with coconut oil for shine |
| Assemble | Layer strawberries, chocolate, then nut mix—repeat |
| Top | Garnish with crushed pistachios or gold dust |
Flavor Pairings & Presentation Tips
Serving Dubai chocolate strawberries is half the fun. Presentation matters, especially with a dessert this visual.
- Serve chilled: Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes before serving to set the chocolate and keep layers distinct.
- Glass matters: Use clear dessert cups or small mason jars to showcase the layers.
- Add a creamy touch: A dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone gives it extra richness.
- Pairing tip: Serve alongside a mint tea, Arabic coffee, or even champagne for a luxe brunch touch.
- Photography hack: Pipe your chocolate using a ziplock bag (cut the corner) for ultra-clean drizzles—perfect for snapping and sharing.
Looking to impress at your next gathering? You’ll love these brunch party desserts and entertaining-ready recipes.
Dubai Chocolate Strawberries FAQs
What is Dubai chocolate and strawberries?
Dubai chocolate and strawberries are a layered dessert inspired by the luxurious Dubai chocolate bars. The dessert combines halved fresh strawberries, melted high-quality chocolate, and a pistachio butter mixture layered with crispy kataifi dough. Served in clear cups, it’s a visual and flavorful showstopper that balances richness, sweetness, and crunch.
What is Dubai chocolate made of?
Dubai chocolate desserts typically use rich dark or semi-sweet chocolate, often combined with pistachio butter or cream and kataifi pastry. Some versions may include tahini for balance and edible gold for that luxury touch. The chocolate itself is often premium-grade, lending smoothness and shine when melted.
Why is Dubai chocolate so expensive?
Dubai chocolate desserts are pricey because of their ingredients—pistachios, gold leaf, and imported chocolate—and the elaborate preparation. Presentation is another key factor. In Dubai’s food culture, elegance and exclusivity are prized, so even a strawberry cup can become a luxury treat when served in a gold-rimmed glass with delicate toppings.
Why is Dubai chocolate so trendy?
Its popularity comes from the perfect mix of luxury, cultural flair, and viral appeal. The dessert looks incredible on camera, layers familiar flavors in a new way, and taps into Dubai’s love for glam. Social media has helped spread it globally, with home cooks and foodies recreating it using accessible ingredients.
Conclusion
Dubai chocolate strawberries are more than just a trend—they’re a fusion of cultures, flavors, and visual appeal. They bring together the best of Middle Eastern tradition with modern indulgence, layered beautifully into one elegant dessert. Whether you’re entertaining friends, surprising a loved one, or just treating yourself, this viral favorite delivers on both flavor and flair.
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t miss our other chocolate creations or our strawberry brunch ideas. Want more globally inspired desserts? Our desserts category is always filled with something new and delicious.
Dubai Chocolate Strawberries: The Viral Dessert You Need to Try Now
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This viral Dubai chocolate strawberries recipe layers juicy berries, crunchy kataifi, and rich pistachio butter with glossy melted chocolate. Decadent yet simple.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds strawberries, halved
1 cup pistachio butter
4 oz kataifi dough, chopped
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
1 tsp coconut oil
2 tbsp tahini (optional)
Ground pistachios for topping
Instructions
1. Toast kataifi with butter in a skillet until golden and crisp.
2. Remove from heat and stir in pistachio butter and tahini.
3. Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in microwave, stir every 30s.
4. Layer halved strawberries at bottom of dessert cups.
5. Drizzle in melted chocolate.
6. Spoon kataifi-pistachio mixture over the chocolate.
7. Repeat the layers once more: strawberries, chocolate, kataifi.
8. Top with crushed pistachios and optional whipped cream.
9. Chill for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Prep kataifi filling ahead and store in fridge. Use piping bag or zip-top bag for clean chocolate drizzle.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 467
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 142mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 59g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Dubai chocolate strawberries, pistachio dessert, chocolate strawberry cup