Dubai Chocolate Dates are an exquisite confection that marries the natural sweetness of Medjool dates with a rich pistachio-tahini filling, encased in a crisp layer of shredded filo dough, and enveloped in silky dark chocolate. This indulgent treat captures the essence of Middle Eastern desserts, offering a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that are both traditional and innovative.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant Presentation: These chocolate-covered dates are visually stunning, making them perfect for special occasions or as a gourmet gift.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of sweet dates, nutty pistachio paste, earthy tahini, and dark chocolate creates a complex and satisfying taste experience.
• Textural Contrast: The crunch of toasted shredded filo dough contrasts beautifully with the soft date and creamy filling.
• Cultural Delight: Inspired by Middle Eastern confections, this recipe brings a touch of Dubai’s culinary artistry to your kitchen.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These treats can be prepared in advance and stored, making them an excellent option for entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12 Medjool dates
• 60 grams shredded filo dough (kataifi)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 150 grams pistachio paste
• 10 grams tahini
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
• 200 grams dark chocolate
• 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt

Directions

1. Prepare the Dates: Carefully slit each date lengthwise and remove the pits, ensuring the dates remain intact.
2. Toast the Filo Dough: Finely chop the shredded filo dough. In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped filo dough and cook, stirring constantly, until golden brown. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine the toasted filo dough, pistachio paste, tahini, and chopped pistachios. Mix until well incorporated.
4. Stuff the Dates: Fill each pitted date with the pistachio mixture, pressing gently to ensure the filling is secure. Place the stuffed dates on a tray and refrigerate for about 15 minutes to firm up.
5. Melt the Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate using a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring until smooth.
6. Coat the Dates: Using a fork or dipping tool, immerse each stuffed date into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow excess chocolate to drip off before placing the dates back on the tray.
7. Garnish: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the tops with flaky sea salt and additional chopped pistachios if desired.
8. Set the Chocolate: Refrigerate the coated dates for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully set.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 12 stuffed dates, serving approximately 6 people (2 dates per serving).

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Chilling Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Nut Alternatives: Substitute pistachio paste with almond or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.
• Spice Infusion: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or cinnamon to the filling for a warm, aromatic touch.
• Chocolate Choices: Use milk or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate to suit your taste preferences.
• Decorative Toppings: Garnish with edible gold leaf or rose petals for an extra touch of elegance.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Place the chocolate-covered dates in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the dates in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: Not applicable, as these treats are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

What type of dates are best for this recipe?

Medjool dates are ideal due to their large size, soft texture, and natural sweetness, which complement the rich filling and chocolate coating.

Can I make the pistachio paste at home?

Yes, you can blend shelled pistachios in a food processor until smooth, adding a small amount of oil if necessary to achieve a paste-like consistency.

Is there a substitute for shredded filo dough?

If shredded filo (kataifi) is unavailable, you can use finely chopped nuts or omit it altogether, though the texture will differ.

Can I prepare these dates in advance?

Absolutely. These treats can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer as outlined in the storage section.

Are these suitable for individuals with nut allergies?

This recipe contains nuts; however, you can experiment with seed-based pastes like sunflower seed butter as a substitute, keeping in mind the flavor and texture will change.

How can I ensure the chocolate coating is smooth?

Make sure the chocolate is fully melted and at the right temperature. Stirring continuously and avoiding moisture will help achieve a glossy finish.

Can I use store-bought pistachio paste?

Yes, store-bought pistachio paste is convenient and works well in this recipe. Ensure it is of good quality for the best flavor.

What is the role of tahini in the filling?

Tahini adds a subtle nutty flavor and creamy texture, balancing the sweetness of the dates and richness of the pistachio paste.

How do I prevent the dates from sticking together?

After coating with chocolate, place the dates on a parchment-lined tray, ensuring they are spaced apart, and refrigerate until set.

Can I add other flavors to the filling?

Certainly. Incorporate ingredients like orange zest, rose water, or vanilla extract to customize the flavor to your liking.

Conclusion

Dubai Chocolate Dates are a decadent fusion of traditional Middle Eastern ingredients and modern confectionery techniques. Their rich flavors and elegant presentation make them a standout treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a luxurious dessert, these stuffed dates offer a delightful experience that is sure to impress.

Dubai Chocolate Dates: A Luxurious Fusion of Middle Eastern Flavors

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• Author: Emma Delaney
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 chocolate dates
• Category: Dessert, Snack
• Method: Cooking, Refrigeration
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Fusion
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Dubai Chocolate Dates are an irresistible fusion of sweet Medjool dates stuffed with a flavorful pistachio and tahini filling, dipped in dark chocolate and topped with flakey salt. A luxurious Middle Eastern-inspired treat perfect for gifting or enjoying on special occasions.

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Ingredients

For Stuffed Dates:

• 12 Medjool dates

• 60 g shredded filo dough

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 150 g pistachio paste

• 10 g tahini

• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios

For Chocolate Coating:

• 200 g dark chocolate

• 1 tsp flakey salt (for garnish)

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Instructions

• Date Preparation:

  • Cut open the 12 Medjool dates and remove the pits. Set aside.

• Prepare the Filling:

  • Chop the shredded filo dough into fine pieces and separate to prevent clumping.

  • In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.

  • Once melted, add the shredded filo dough and cook, stirring often, until golden brown.

  • Remove from heat and transfer the dough to a bowl.

  • Add the pistachio paste, tahini, and chopped pistachios to the bowl and mix until fully combined.

• Stuff the Dates:

  • Fill each date with the pistachio filling, ensuring they are well-packed.

  • Refrigerate the stuffed dates until ready to dip.

• Chocolate Coating:

  • Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until smooth.

  • Dip each stuffed date into the melted chocolate, coating it thoroughly.

  • Place the dipped dates on a tray lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle with flakey salt while the chocolate is still soft.

  • Refrigerate for 30–45 minutes until the chocolate is set.

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Notes

• Store the chocolate dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

• For added flavor, you can drizzle a bit of extra tahini on top of the chocolate before chilling.

• These dates make for a perfect gift or a delightful treat after dinner.