Dubai is not just a name of luxury things — the country is writing a new chapter the world over with its indulgent pistachio chocolate bars. This treat combines rich Middle Eastern flavors, crispy textures, and a glamorous presentation that would be the envy of any chef.
As Gordon Ramsay always says, “It’s all about simple perfection and the best ingredients.” In this recipe, we bring the iconic dessert trend of Dubai to your kitchen while offering tips inspired by Ramsay’s culinary philosophy.
If you’ve ever wanted to replicate an over-the-top chocolate creation that appears to belong in a Michelin-star kitchen, now is your opportunity. Let’s dive in!
What is Dubai Chocolate?
Dubai chocolate is a decadent mixture of high-end chocolate, roasted pistachios and knafeh crumbs — a crisp Middle Eastern pastry. Usually adorned with edible gold, it’s a dessert that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
This dessert has made its rounds on social media, with videos featuring the crunchable layers and irresistibly nutty pistachio pudding entrancing millions.
What Makes This Recipe a Gordon Ramsay Favorite?
Gordon Ramsay, the chef and reality television star known for his high standards and punishing quest for perfection, would love this dish because:
They are made with high-end ingredients for no-fuss indulgence.
The texture balance — silky chocolate, crunchy pistachios, feather-light pastry — is fine-dining signaling.
Visually it’s stunning, as any Michelin-star dessert Ramsay would plate.
Let’s put on our Ramsay skills and make this show-stopping dessert!
Ingredients (Serves 6-8):
Here’s what you will need to make these Dubai-inspired pistachio chocolate bars:
For the Chocolate Base:
300g good-quality dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa)
100g of milk chocolate (for sweetness, optional)
1 Tbsp coconut oil (to make it shiny)
For the Topping:
100g pistachios, roasted, crushed (hold some bak for garnish)
50g knafeh breadcrumbs (or crispy phyllo pastry as a substitute)
2 tablespoons honeys or rose syrup (optional)
Gold edible flakes (optional, for decoration)
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Base
Although its name is Double Chocolate Cupcakes, ‘chocolate’ is a misnomer; it starts with a chocolate base.
Dice the dark and milk chocolate into tiny pieces.
Melt the chocolate in a double boiler (bain-marie) or in the microwave in 20-second increments. Stir until silky smooth.
Stir in a little coconut oil in the melted chocolate for a glossy, fancy touch. Stir well.
Gordon Ramsay tip: Chocolate should never be overheated. Excessive heat will lead it to seize, so keep the temperature down to below 45°C (113°F).
Step 2: Assemble the Pistachio and Knafeh Layers
The small rectangular tray is lined with parchment paper.
Over the parchment paper, pour a thin layer of melted chocolate and use a spatula to flatten the chocolate in the tray.
Scatter a thin layer of crushed pistachios and knafeh crumbs. Gee with a touch of honey or rose syrup to give it an Arabic twist.
Drizzle the rest of the melted chocolate over the toppings to tuck them in.
Step 3: Chill and Set
Cover and transfer the tray to the fridge for 1–2 hours or until the chocolate is fully set.
When set, gently pull the chocolate block out of the tray and remove the parchment paper.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Once the chocolate is set, cut it into bars or squares with a sharp knife.
For a classy touch, top the bars with more crushed pistachios and edible gold flakes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here we have a simple, delicious and luxurious chocolate bar all inspired by Dubai — just what Gordon Ramsay preaches. Whether you’re entertaining guests for a dinner party or indulging on your own, these bars are bound to impress.
Plus, they’re:
✔ Easy to make
✔ Perfect for gifting
✔ A food trend people are doing at home
Final Thoughts
And now you can bring the latest indulgent culinary trend to your kitchen, as Dubai chocolate is capturing the culinary world. Using Ramsay-worthy techniques and high-end ingredients, these bars are not just a treat for your taste buds; they’re a feast for your eyes.
Try out this recipe and tell us—what do you think Gordon Ramsay would say about your masterpiece?