Description
Crunchy Kataifi Dubai Chocolate Bar Filling is an indulgent Middle Eastern-inspired dessert that features crispy, golden kataifi dough nests filled with a smooth, luscious chocolate filling. Baked to perfection and optionally drizzled with a fragrant syrup infused with lemon juice or rosewater, this decadent treat offers a delightful combination of textures and rich flavors perfect for special occasions or an elegant sweet snack.
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) to have it ready for baking the kataifi nests.
- Loosen the Dough: Gently pull apart the kataifi dough strands to separate them fully and place them in a bowl.
- Coat the Dough: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the shredded kataifi dough, tossing gently to coat all strands. For a sweeter dough, optionally add 2 tablespoons of sugar and mix well.
- Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, warm the heavy cream over low heat until just hot but not boiling, preparing it for melting the chocolate.
- Melt the Chocolate: Break the chocolate bars into pieces, add them to the warm cream, and stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Flavor the Filling: Remove the chocolate mixture from heat and stir in vanilla extract and honey, if using, to enhance the aroma and sweetness. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Form Kataifi Bundles: Take small portions of the coated kataifi dough and shape them into nests or bundles about 2 inches in diameter.
- Place on Baking Tray: Arrange each kataifi nest on a parchment-lined baking sheet, pressing gently in the center to create space for the filling.
- Fill the Bundles: Spoon a small amount of the melted chocolate filling into the center of each kataifi nest carefully.
- Bake the Kataifi: Bake the filled kataifi nests in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the dough turns golden brown and becomes crispy.
- Prepare Syrup (Optional): While the kataifi bake, combine water, sugar, and lemon juice or rosewater in a saucepan. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly, then remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
- Cool the Kataifi: Remove the baked kataifi from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Drizzle Syrup: If prepared, drizzle the cooled syrup over the warm kataifi to add moisture and extra sweetness.
- Serve: Enjoy the kataifi warm or at room temperature for a crunchy, gooey chocolate-filled dessert experience.
Notes
- Kataifi dough can be delicate; handle it gently to avoid breaking the strands too much.
- Use your favorite chocolate type or a mixture for different flavor profiles.
- Honey and vanilla extract enhance the richness but can be omitted if desired.
- The syrup is optional but adds a traditional sweetness and moisture to the dessert.
- Ensure the oven is fully preheated to achieve crispiness in the kataifi dough.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crispiness.
