Decadent Dubai Chocolate Tasting

Name: Decadent Dubai Chocolate Tasting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 portions
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa); 100g butter; 150g granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 100g all-purpose flour; Pinch of salt; 100ml heavy cream; 1 tsp ground cardamom; 1 tsp rosewater; Zest of 1 orange

Highlighted under: Global Culinary Recipe Ideas

I was swept away by the rich flavors of chocolate during my recent trip to Dubai. The local sweet shops offered a unique array of chocolate creations that tantalized my taste buds. I couldn’t wait to recreate some of these decadent desserts at home. Each bite is an adventure, blending dark chocolate with hints of spices and unexpected flavor combinations. This recipe captures that essence, delivering a luxurious chocolate experience that transports you straight to the heart of Dubai's bustling markets.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-25T18:58:27.907Z

During my culinary exploration in Dubai, I encountered an astonishing variety of chocolate, each piece meticulously crafted to embody the warmth and vibrance of the city. My favorites were the spicy chocolate truffles, uniquely infused with cardamom and rosewater, creating a flavor profile I had never experienced before. That first bite was pure bliss, and I vowed to recreate that magic back home.

This recipe became my way of bringing a piece of Dubai into my kitchen. I experimented with different chocolate blends and spices, ultimately crafting a dessert that not only tastes amazing but also brings joy to any gathering. Making chocolate is rewarding, and you'll find that the textures and flavors are even more delightful when shared with loved ones.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

Understanding Chocolate Quality

When creating this decadent dessert, the quality of chocolate is paramount. I recommend using a high-end dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. This will ensure that you achieve a deep, rich flavor that serves as the base for the recipe. Brands like Valrhona or Scharffen Berger are excellent choices. Remember, the better the chocolate, the more luxurious your final result will be.

When melting chocolate, use a double boiler to prevent direct heat, which can lead to seizing or burning. Stir continuously until the chocolate is glossy and smooth. If you find it thickening too quickly, adding a splash of warm cream can help restore its fluidity and maintain that silky texture needed for the batter.

Perfecting the Spiced Sauce

The spiced sauce enhances the chocolate base, adding layers of complexity. Cardamom offers a warm, aromatic essence that complements the chocolate beautifully. Be mindful not to overheat the cream; it should just start to bubble around the edges for the best infusion of flavors. If you want an extra aromatic kick, try slightly toasting the cardamom seeds before using them -- this can intensify their flavor significantly.

If you're not fond of rosewater, consider substituting it with a splash of almond extract or even a hint of peppermint to create a different flavor profile. Each variation will still pair wonderfully with the chocolate and elevate your dessert.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

For an impressive presentation, serve the chocolate squares on a sleek platter, drizzled with the spiced sauce and garnished with fresh orange zest. Adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can enhance the experience, providing a nice contrast to the richness of the chocolate.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the squares, separating layers with parchment paper. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the microwave to achieve that warm, gooey texture.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Base

200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
100g butter
150g granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
100g all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt

For the Spiced Sauce

100ml heavy cream
1 tsp ground cardamom
1 tsp rosewater
Zest of 1 orange

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Instructions

Prepare the Chocolate Base

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Melt the dark chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar until well combined.

Combine Eggs and Flour

Add the eggs one at a time to the chocolate mixture, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, followed by the flour and salt, until just combined.

Bake the Base

Pour the chocolate batter into a greased baking dish and bake for 15 minutes, until the top is set. Allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares.

Make the Spiced Sauce

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat. Stir in the ground cardamom, rosewater, and orange zest. Remove from heat just before it reaches a boil.

Serve

Serve the chocolate squares warm with a drizzle of the spiced sauce on top, garnished with a sprinkle of extra orange zest.

This decadent treat can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruits to the chocolate base before baking.

Adjusting for Dietary Needs

If you're looking for a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that using almond flour may give the chocolate base a nutty flavor, which can complement the spices beautifully. Adjust the baking time slightly, as nut-based flours can alter the moisture level.

For a dairy-free option, replace the butter with coconut oil and use a dairy-free chocolate. The result will be different, but equally delightful, as the coconut oil lends a subtle flavor and silky texture without compromising the overall experience.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings. For a party of 12, simply double the ingredients and bake it in a larger pan, around 9x13 inches. Just ensure to watch the baking time as it may increase slightly. Checking for doneness with a toothpick should still work; if it comes out with moist crumbs, it's perfect.

Conversely, if you want to make a smaller batch, you can halve the ingredients and use a smaller baking dish, around 8x8 inches. This helps control portion sizes and allows for fresh bakes without overwhelming leftovers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but keep in mind that the sweetness will increase and the flavor profile will change.

→ How should I store the chocolate squares?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for a week.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

→ Is it necessary to add the spices?

While the spices enhance the flavor, you can omit them if you prefer a more classic chocolate taste.