Description
A luxurious Middle Eastern-inspired dessert, these Dubai Chocolate Balls feature a creamy pistachio kunefe filling wrapped in a silky dark chocolate shell. Each bite delivers rich nuttiness, sweet cheese notes, and a crisp finish. Perfect for elegant parties, gifting, or a twist on traditional truffles.
Ingredients
1 cup pistachios (unsalted, shelled)
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup kataifi (shredded phyllo dough)
½ cup sweetened condensed milk
½ cup shredded mozzarella or akkawi cheese (low-moisture)
10 ounces dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
1 tablespoon coconut oil or neutral oil
2 tablespoons chopped pistachios (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Toast the pistachios in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant. Let cool, then grind finely in a food processor. Reserve 2 tablespoons for garnish.
2. Melt the butter in a pan, then add the kataifi. Stir and cook until golden brown. Let it cool.
3. In a bowl, combine ground pistachios, sweetened condensed milk, cheese, and toasted kataifi. Mix until sticky. Chill for 30 minutes.
4. Scoop and roll mixture into small balls using a spoon or scoop. Place on parchment-lined tray.
5. Melt the chocolate and coconut oil using a double boiler until smooth and glossy.
6. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, coat well, and return to tray. Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or until set. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter and coconut cream instead of cheese.
If kataifi is unavailable, substitute with crushed shredded wheat or toasted coconut flakes.
Add a drop of rose water or orange blossom water for extra Middle Eastern aroma.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
 - Category: Dessert
 - Method: No Bake / Chilling
 - Cuisine: Middle Eastern
 
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
 - Calories: 120
 - Sugar: 6g
 - Sodium: 40mg
 - Fat: 9g
 - Saturated Fat: 4g
 - Unsaturated Fat: 4g
 - Trans Fat: 0g
 - Carbohydrates: 10g
 - Fiber: 1g
 - Protein: 2g
 - Cholesterol: 5mg
 
Keywords: chocolate truffles, pistachio, kunefe, no-bake dessert