Description
These Dubai Chocolate Balls with Pistachio Kunefe Filling combine the elegance of dark chocolate with the rich, nutty essence of Middle Eastern desserts. Featuring a creamy pistachio and kataifi center wrapped in luscious chocolate, this dessert recipe is perfect for holidays, gifting, or an indulgent sweet bite. A must-try for fans of truffle recipes, pistachio desserts, and kunefe-inspired creations.
Ingredients
60 g dark chocolate (60–70%)
100 g mascarpone cheese
50 g ground pistachios
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp sugar syrup or honey
25 g shredded phyllo dough (kataifi)
1/4 tsp cardamom powder
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Melt butter in a skillet and lightly toast the shredded phyllo until golden and crisp.
2. Stir in ground pistachios, cardamom, and sugar syrup or honey. Cook briefly and remove from heat.
3. Let the mixture cool slightly, then fold in mascarpone cheese and vanilla to form a thick filling.
4. Roll the mixture into small teaspoon-sized balls and place them on a tray. Freeze for 30 minutes.
5. Melt dark chocolate gently using a double boiler or microwave until smooth.
6. Dip each kunefe ball into the melted chocolate using a fork or dipping tool.
7. Let excess chocolate drip off and transfer to a parchment-lined tray.
8. Optionally sprinkle crushed pistachios on top before the chocolate sets.
9. Refrigerate until firm. Serve slightly chilled.
Notes
Keep chocolate warm during dipping by placing the bowl over warm water.
You can swap mascarpone with cream cheese for a slightly tangier flavor.
Use food-safe gloves for rolling to prevent stickiness.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake, Chill
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 15 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 8 mg