How to Make the Perfect Dubai Knafeh Chocolate Tart with Pistachio Cream
Middle Eastern · Hard · 180 min · 10 servings
This stunning tart combines a dark chocolate shell with a layer of crispy golden knafeh and a silky pistachio cream filling inspired by the viral Dubai chocolate trend. It is the ultimate dessert for entertaining and takes the flavors of the Middle East to sophisticated new heights.
Why this recipe works
This Dubai Knafeh Chocolate Tart with Pistachio Cream recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 180 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 480 calories with 9g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 350 g dark chocolate melted
- 180 g shredded kunafa pastry
- 60 g unsalted butter
- 200 g pistachio cream
- 150 ml double cream
- 30 g crushed pistachios for garnish
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Build the Chocolate Shell
Brush melted dark chocolate in a thick even layer inside a 23cm fluted tart mold. Refrigerate for 10 minutes then add a second layer of chocolate and refrigerate for another 10 minutes to create a sturdy shell.
Step 2: Toast the Kunafa Layer
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and add shredded kunafa pastry. Toast for 8 minutes stirring constantly until deep golden and crispy. Season with a pinch of salt and allow it to cool completely before using.
Step 3: Whip the Pistachio Cream Filling
Combine pistachio cream and double cream in a bowl and whip together until the mixture becomes thick and spreadable but not grainy. Taste and adjust sweetness with a small amount of icing sugar if needed.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
Spread the toasted kunafa evenly across the chocolate shell base. Spoon and smooth the whipped pistachio cream on top. Garnish with crushed pistachios and refrigerate for 2 hours before carefully unmolding and slicing.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- double cream → coconut cream for a dairy free version with a subtle tropical note
- pistachio cream → store bought hazelnut spread combined with green food coloring as an accessible alternative
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Creating a chocolate shell that is too thin which cracks when the tart is unmolded
- Adding the filling before the kunafa layer has cooled completely which makes the pistachio cream melt and become runny
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 480 calories, 9g protein, 42g carbs, 32g fat, 4g fiber.
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