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Dubai Chocolate Filling with Pistachio Kunafa Recipe

Dubai Chocolate Filling with Pistachio Kunafa Recipe

4.9 from 8 reviews

Indulge in a luxurious Middle Eastern dessert featuring a rich and velvety dark chocolate filling layered between crispy, buttery kunafa dough and topped with finely ground pistachios. This Dubai Chocolate Filling with Pistachio Kunafa combines the sweetness of rose-scented syrup with the nutty crunch of pistachios, creating a delightful treat perfect for special occasions or cozy evenings.

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Filling

  • 200g high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Kunafa Layers

  • 1 packet (250g) kunafa dough
  • ½ cup melted clarified butter

Syrup

  • ½ cup sugar
  • ¼ cup water
  • 1 tablespoon rose water

Topping

  • 1 cup unsalted pistachios, finely ground

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chocolate filling: In a medium saucepan over low heat, gently melt the chopped dark chocolate together with the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and whisk in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract. Set aside to cool and thicken slightly.
  2. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the kunafa layers once assembled.
  3. Prepare the kunafa dough: Unravel the kunafa dough and gently separate the strands. Toss the strands thoroughly with the melted clarified butter until each strand is evenly coated to ensure a crisp and golden texture after baking.
  4. Assemble the kunafa base: Press half of the buttered kunafa dough evenly into the bottom of a greased baking dish to create a solid base layer.
  5. Add the chocolate filling: Pour the prepared chocolate filling over the kunafa base, spreading it evenly for a consistent layer of rich chocolate flavor.
  6. Top with remaining kunafa: Spread the remaining buttered kunafa dough over the chocolate layer and press down gently to compact the layers for even baking.
  7. Bake the kunafa: Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
  8. Prepare the rose syrup: While the kunafa is baking, combine the sugar and water in a small saucepan and simmer until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and stir in the rose water for a fragrant syrup.
  9. Finish the dessert: Once baked, remove the kunafa from the oven and immediately pour the warm rose syrup evenly over the top, allowing it to soak into the layers.
  10. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the finely ground pistachios generously over the syrup-soaked kunafa. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor experience.

Notes

  • Use high-quality dark chocolate for the richest flavor and smoothest filling.
  • Clarified butter helps keep the kunafa strands crispy and prevents sogginess.
  • Ensure the syrup is warm when pouring over the hot kunafa to allow proper absorption.
  • This dessert is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat gently in the oven before serving to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Kunafa, Chocolate Kunafa, Pistachio Kunafa, Middle Eastern Dessert, Chocolate Filling, Rose Syrup, Traditional Kunafa