Dubai Chocolate Balls with Pistachio Kunefe Filling

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This unique dessert brings together the buttery crunch of kunefe and the velvety depth of dark chocolate in an easy-to-make, no-fuss treat. Whether you're serving guests or treating yourself, these chocolate balls offer a gourmet experience without the need for complex techniques. Their bite-sized shape makes them perfect for parties, gifting, or enjoying with your favorite cup of coffee or tea.

ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup kunefe dough (shredded phyllo)

• ½ cup unsalted pistachios, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

• 1½ cups dark chocolate, chopped

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom

• Pinch of salt

• Crushed pistachios for garnish

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a bowl, mix kunefe dough, chopped pistachios, sugar, and melted butter until everything is well coated.

3. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden and crispy. Let cool completely.

4. Place chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl.

5. Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until it begins to simmer. Pour over chocolate and let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.

6. Mix in honey, vanilla extract, ground cardamom, and salt.

7. Form the cooled kunefe mixture into small balls.

8. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate until fully coated.

9. Set on a parchment-lined tray and sprinkle with crushed pistachios.

10. Let the chocolate set at room temperature or refrigerate for quicker results.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Baking/Cooking Time: 12 minutes

• Total Time: 32 minutes

• Number of Servings: 12

• Approximate Calories per Serving: 150 kcal

Variations

• Swap pistachios with almonds or walnuts for a different nutty profile.

• Add a touch of orange zest to the chocolate for a citrusy twist.

• Use white or milk chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter variation.

• Infuse the cream with rose water for a floral Middle Eastern note.

• Shape into bars instead of balls for a more elegant presentation.

storage/reheating

Store the chocolate balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. These treats do not require reheating and are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

What is kunefe dough and where can I find it?

Kunefe dough, also known as shredded phyllo or kataifi, is a type of pastry used in Middle Eastern desserts. You can usually find it in the freezer section of Middle Eastern or specialty grocery stores.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chocolate balls up to 2 days in advance and store them in the fridge.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely. Milk chocolate will yield a sweeter flavor, which pairs well with the nutty filling.

How do I keep the kunefe mixture crispy?

Ensure it’s completely cooled before rolling and avoid adding too much moisture to the mix.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, kunefe dough contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, you’d need a gluten-free phyllo dough substitute.

Can I freeze these chocolate balls?

Yes, they freeze well. Store them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Do I need to temper the chocolate?

Tempering isn’t required since the balls are stored chilled, but it can help if you want a glossier finish.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, substitute the butter and cream with plant-based alternatives and use vegan chocolate.

How should I serve them?

They’re perfect as is, but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Are these suitable for kids?

Yes, but you may want to use milk chocolate for a milder taste and skip the cardamom if they’re not fans of spiced flavors.

Conclusion

Dubai Chocolate Balls with Pistachio Kunefe Filling are a show-stopping treat that merges tradition with modern indulgence. With their rich flavors and beautiful texture contrast, they’re sure to impress at any gathering or make a simple moment feel special. Try them once, and they might just become a staple in your dessert repertoire.