Description
This Crunchy Kataifi Dubai Chocolate Bar Filling recipe combines the delicate, crispy texture of kataifi dough with a rich, smooth chocolate filling. Perfectly baked until golden and filled with melted chocolate, these treats are enhanced with an optional fragrant syrup, making them a delightful Middle Eastern-inspired dessert that serves 12.
Ingredients
Scale
Kataifi Dough
- 1 package of kataifi dough (shredded phyllo dough, usually available at Middle Eastern or international grocery stores)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
Chocolate Bar Filling
- 4 large chocolate bars (about 4 oz each; dark, milk, or a combination)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (to soften and smooth out the chocolate)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for enhanced flavor)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
Syrup (Optional)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or rosewater (optional for flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Kataifi Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gently pull apart the kataifi dough, loosening it to separate the strands. Place the dough in a bowl.
- Butter and Sweeten the Dough: Drizzle melted butter over the kataifi dough, tossing to coat evenly. Optionally, mix in 2 tablespoons of sugar for added sweetness.
- Make the Chocolate Bar Filling: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until just warm without boiling. Break the chocolate bars into pieces and add them to the cream. Stir continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Enhance the Chocolate Mixture: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and honey if using. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Form Kataifi Nests: Take small portions of the kataifi dough and form nests or bundles about 2 inches in size.
- Fill the Kataifi: Place each bundle on a parchment-lined baking tray. Press gently in the center to make space for the chocolate filling. Spoon a small amount of the melted chocolate filling into the center of each kataifi bundle.
- Bake the Kataifi: Bake the filled kataifi in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare the Syrup (Optional): While baking, combine water, sugar, and lemon juice or rosewater in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Let cool to room temperature.
- Serve: After baking, allow the kataifi to cool for a few minutes. Drizzle with prepared syrup if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature for a decadent dessert.
Notes
- Kataifi dough can be fragile; handle gently to maintain the shredded texture.
- Choose dark, milk, or a combination of chocolate bars based on your sweetness preference.
- The syrup is optional but adds a lovely sweet and aromatic touch to the dessert.
- For a nutty variation, sprinkle chopped nuts in the filling before baking.
- Serve fresh for optimal crunchiness; leftovers can be refrigerated but may lose crisp texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
