How to Create Perfect Dubai Chocolate Balls

Chocolate Ganache Preparation

Properly tempering the chocolate creates the ideal silky texture with the perfect snap.

Spice Infusion

Warming the spices in cream releases their aromatic oils for maximum flavor impact.

Temperature Control

Strategic chilling ensures the perfect consistency for shaping while preserving the ganache's lusciousness.

Artistic Finishing

The application of gold leaf and varied coatings transforms simple truffles into luxurious confections.

Baking Tips

Use high-quality chocolate with at least 70% cacao content for the richest flavor and best texture.

If the chocolate mixture becomes too firm to roll, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly.

For cleaner handling, dust your hands with cocoa powder before rolling the chocolate balls.

Toast the pistachios before chopping to enhance their flavor and provide a more aromatic crunch.

The chocolate balls can be made up to 1 week ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

For a non-alcoholic flavor variation, substitute 1/2 teaspoon rose water for the orange blossom water.

To create different flavors, experiment with adding 1/2 teaspoon of spices like cinnamon, ginger, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

For a more pronounced date flavor, substitute date paste for the chopped dates.

Bring the chocolate balls to room temperature about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Dubai Chocolate Balls

Name: Dubai Chocolate Balls
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 3 h 45 min
Yield: 24 chocolate balls
Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Fusion
Ingredients: 12 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (70% cacao), finely chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon ground cardamom; 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, crushed (optional); 1 tablespoon orange blossom water; 1/2 cup Medjool dates, pitted and finely chopped; 1/2 cup pistachios, toasted and finely chopped, plus extra for coating; 2 tablespoons honey or date syrup; Pinch of sea salt; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon edible gold dust (optional); 24 small edible gold leaf flakes for decoration (optional)

These luxurious Dubai Chocolate Balls blend rich chocolate with aromatic cardamom, pistachios, and dates for a decadent confection inspired by Middle Eastern flavors. Each bite-sized treat delivers a perfect balance of deep chocolate intensity, subtle spice, and natural sweetness, all wrapped in a delicate dusting of gold-infused cocoa powder. The contrasting textures of smooth ganache, crunchy nuts, and chewy dates create an unforgettable sensory experience worthy of special occasions. Elegant enough for gifting and sophisticated entertaining, yet simple enough to make at home, these chocolate truffles offer a taste of Dubai's opulent culinary scene in a beautiful, bite-sized package.

Prep Time

40 Minutes

Cook Time

5 Minutes

Total Time

3H45 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

12 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (70% cacao), finely chopped

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 teaspoon ground cardamom

1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, crushed (optional)

1 tablespoon orange blossom water

1/2 cup Medjool dates, pitted and finely chopped

1/2 cup pistachios, toasted and finely chopped, plus extra for coating

2 tablespoons honey or date syrup

Pinch of sea salt

1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

1/2 teaspoon edible gold dust (optional)

24 small edible gold leaf flakes for decoration (optional)

Instructions

Place the chopped chocolate in a medium heat-resistant bowl.

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream, butter, cardamom, and saffron (if using) until it just begins to simmer. Do not boil.

Pour the hot cream mixture over the chocolate and let stand for 1 minute to melt the chocolate.

Gently stir the mixture until smooth and completely melted. Add the orange blossom water and stir to combine.

Add the chopped dates, 1/4 cup of the chopped pistachios, honey, and sea salt. Stir until well combined.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, making sure the wrap touches the surface of the chocolate mixture to prevent a skin from forming.

Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until firm enough to roll into balls.

In a small bowl, combine the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and edible gold dust if using.

Place the remaining 1/4 cup of chopped pistachios in another small bowl.

Using a melon baller or small spoon, scoop out small portions of the chocolate mixture and quickly roll between your palms to form 1-inch balls.

Roll some of the balls in the cocoa powder mixture and others in the chopped pistachios, depending on preference.

If using gold leaf, gently place a small flake on top of each chocolate ball for an elegant finish.

Place the completed chocolate balls in small paper cups for serving, if desired.

Return the chocolate balls to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.

Dubai Chocolate Balls

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

How to Create Perfect Dubai Chocolate Balls

Dubai Chocolate Balls

Ingredients

Instructions