How to Make Dubai Chocolate at Home – Step-by-Step Recipe with Tips
Dubai is famous for its towering skyscrapers, golden deserts, and luxury shopping. But one thing that often surprises visitors is its love for fine chocolate. In recent years, Dubai chocolate has gained global attention. Known for its silky texture, rich flavor, and often infused with regional ingredients like saffron, dates, camel milk, or pistachios, Dubai chocolate is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience.
Chocolate artisans in Dubai have mastered the blend of Eastern flavors and Western techniques. While international brands like Patchi and Godiva are popular in the city, locally inspired chocolate recipes hold a special place in the hearts of both residents and travelers. Making Dubai chocolate at home allows you to capture the essence of Emirati flavors in your own kitchen.
You don’t need professional training to make Dubai-style chocolate. With the right ingredients, a bit of patience, and a touch of creativity, you can recreate this luxurious treat in your kitchen. Whether you want to impress guests or indulge yourself, this recipe will help you prepare chocolate that looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredients Needed
To make authentic Dubai chocolate, you’ll need both traditional and regionally inspired ingredients. Below is a breakdown of everything you’ll need along with the estimated calories for each item.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Estimated Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Dark chocolate (70%+) | 200 grams | 1070 kcal |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 100 ml | 320 kcal |
| Camel milk powder | 2 tablespoons | 60 kcal |
| Chopped dates | ½ cup | 210 kcal |
| Crushed pistachios | ¼ cup | 170 kcal |
| Rose water | 1 teaspoon | 5 kcal |
| Saffron strands (optional) | 5-6 strands | 2 kcal |
| Unsalted butter | 1 tablespoon | 102 kcal |
| Vanilla extract | ½ teaspoon | 6 kcal |
| Sea salt (for topping) | Pinch | 0 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the base
Start by breaking the dark chocolate into small pieces. Use a sharp knife or your hands. The smaller the pieces, the faster they’ll melt. Set up a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Add the chocolate and butter to the bowl. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
Step 2: Add milk and flavor
Once the chocolate is fully melted, reduce the heat and slowly add the sweetened condensed milk. Stir until it fully blends into the chocolate. Now add the camel milk powder. This gives the chocolate a distinct, creamy texture and subtle regional flavor.
Step 3: Mix in the extras
Toss in the chopped dates and crushed pistachios. Stir well so they’re evenly distributed. If you’re using saffron, crush the strands slightly and add them now, followed by rose water and vanilla extract. Mix until the aroma becomes noticeable and the mixture thickens slightly.
Step 4: Set and cool
Line a small tray or dish with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the tray and spread it out evenly using a spatula. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top to balance the sweetness. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until fully set.
Step 5: Slice and serve
Once the chocolate has set, take it out of the fridge and cut it into bite-sized squares or bars. Store the pieces in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week in the fridge.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Dubai chocolate is incredibly versatile. You can tweak the ingredients to match your preferences or dietary needs.
Use white or milk chocolate
If dark chocolate is too intense, swap it for milk or white chocolate. Keep in mind the final flavor will be sweeter and less bold.Continue your cooking journey with No Bake Oreo Cheesecake_ right after this.
Add edible gold leaf
To mimic the ultra-luxurious presentation seen in high-end Dubai chocolate shops, top your finished product with edible gold leaf.
Swap nuts and fruits
If pistachios or dates aren’t your thing, try using almonds, cashews, or dried figs instead. Just keep the balance between crunchy and chewy.
Make it vegan
Use dairy-free chocolate, coconut condensed milk, and skip the camel milk powder. The result is still rich and flavorful.
Spice it up
Add a hint of cardamom or cinnamon to give your chocolate an even deeper Arabian flair.
Nutritional Information
Below is an approximate nutritional profile for one serving (1 piece, around 30 grams):
Keep in mind, the exact values will depend on the ingredients you choose.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade Dubai chocolate with Arabic coffee or mint tea for an authentic touch. It also pairs beautifully with a glass of warm camel milk or even saffron-infused milk. Arrange the chocolate pieces on a silver tray or in a decorative box for gifting. If you’re serving guests, try placing a date and a nut on top of each piece for added elegance and flavor contrast.
For special occasions like Eid, Ramadan, or weddings, wrap each piece in colored foil or present them in a traditional Emirati-style dessert box. The luxurious look will leave a lasting impression.
How to Make Dubai Chocolate at Home – Step-by-Step Recipe with Tips
Course: Blog12
servings15
minutes10
minutes~160 kcal
kcalIngredients
IngredienttQuantity
Dark chocolate (70%+)t200 grams
Sweetened condensed milkt100 ml
Camel milk powdert2 tablespoons
Chopped datest½ cup
Crushed pistachiost¼ cup
Rose watert1 teaspoon
Directions
- Melt the chocolate:
- Break the dark chocolate into small pieces. Place it in a heatproof bowl with the butter. Set the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler) and stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Add condensed milk and camel milk powder:
- Lower the heat and add the condensed milk slowly, stirring constantly. Mix in the camel milk powder until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Infuse with flavor:
- Add the chopped dates, crushed pistachios, saffron (if using), rose water, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For the most authentic flavor, try to use high-quality ingredients. Camel milk powder can be found at specialty or Middle Eastern stores, but if it’s unavailable, regular milk powder works as a substitute. Feel free to customize the nuts and dried fruits based on your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular milk instead of camel milk powder?
Yes, but the unique flavor that camel milk provides will be missing. You can still make a delicious version using regular milk powder or even skip it altogether.
Where can I buy saffron and rose water?
These are usually available in Middle Eastern grocery stores or online. Look for high-quality saffron with a deep red color and a floral aroma.
Is Dubai chocolate spicy?
Not typically. However, some versions include cardamom or other warm spices. You can add a pinch if you enjoy that flavor.
How do I store Dubai chocolate?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 7 days. For longer storage, freeze the chocolate for up to a month.
Can I make this with white chocolate only?
Yes, but white chocolate is sweeter and melts faster. Adjust the sweetness accordingly and monitor closely while melting.
Conclusion
Creating Dubai chocolate at home is a rewarding experience that lets you enjoy the flavors of the Middle East without boarding a plane. With ingredients like dates, camel milk, saffron, and pistachios, every bite feels indulgent and full of character. It’s not just a dessert—it’s a conversation starter, a piece of culture, and a gift from your kitchen.
