If you’re in the mood for a dessert that’s as vibrant and exciting as Dubai itself, this Dubai Chocolate Dessert with Strawberries and Pistachios Recipe will absolutely steal your heart. Imagine layers of fresh, juicy strawberries mingling with a luscious, sweetened milk mixture, all topped with crunchy pistachios and a hint of coconut. It’s a treat that balances creamy richness and fresh fruity bursts with a dazzling pop of texture and color, making each spoonful an absolute celebration of flavors and indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dessert is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role — the strawberries bring freshness and natural sweetness, the milk mixture adds silky creaminess, and the pistachios introduce a delightful crunch that lifts the entire experience. Plus, a touch of coconut enhances the flavor with a subtle tropical twist.
- Fresh strawberries, 2 cups: Finely chopped for the perfect juicy bites that brighten every spoonful.
- Cold milk, ½ cup: Creates a smooth, refreshing base that ties everything together.
- Sweetened condensed milk, 2 tablespoons: Adds luscious sweetness, easily adjusted to your taste buds’ desire.
- Heavy cream, 1 tablespoon (optional): For an extra layer of richness that elevates the dessert’s texture.
- Sugar, 1–2 teaspoons (optional): Used only if your strawberries need a little more love in the sweetness department.
- Crushed pistachios: Essential for their nutty crunch and beautiful green hue that makes this dessert pop.
- Desiccated coconut: Adds a light, tropical flavor and subtle texture contrast.
- Extra drizzle of condensed milk: A finishing touch that amps up the dessert’s sweet charm.
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream: Perfect accompaniments to make each serving feel even more luxurious.
How to Make Dubai Chocolate Dessert with Strawberries and Pistachios Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by washing your strawberries thoroughly, then finely chop them into small pieces. The smaller they are, the better the texture—you want every bite to be bursting with juicy strawberry goodness that melds beautifully with the creamy layers later on.
Step 2: Make the Milk Mixture
In a bowl, combine the cold milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream if you’re using it. Give it a good stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Depending on how sweet your strawberries are, add a teaspoon or two of sugar to balance the flavors perfectly. This mixture is the silky, dreamy backdrop for your strawberries.
Step 3: Assemble the Cups
Grab some clear dessert glasses or pretty cups to showcase the layers visually. Start by spooning in a layer of the finely chopped strawberries, then add a generous pour of the milk mixture over them. Keep layering strawberries and milk mixture, ending with the milk mixture on top to create that inviting glossy finish.
Step 4: Garnish and Chill
Sprinkle the top with generous amounts of crushed pistachios and desiccated coconut for texture and aroma. Drizzle a little extra condensed milk if you like it sweeter. Chill the assembled desserts for 20 to 30 minutes in the fridge so the flavors marry and the dessert becomes perfectly refreshing.
Step 5: Serve Cold
This dessert is best enjoyed cold. Serve it as a light, fruity dessert after dinner or as a refreshing midday treat. For an even more indulgent experience, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream right before serving.
How to Serve Dubai Chocolate Dessert with Strawberries and Pistachios Recipe
Garnishes
The garnish is where this dessert shines. The crushed pistachios provide that signature crunchy contrast, while desiccated coconut adds a gentle, tropical flair. An extra drizzle of condensed milk on top not only makes it look irresistible but also gives each bite an extra touch of sweetness that complements the tart strawberries beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing drinks like mint lemonade or rose water-infused iced tea. If you want to make it part of a larger meal, consider serving it after a mildly spiced main course to cleanse the palate with its fresh and creamy texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Layer this dessert in elegant glass cups or mason jars to highlight its stunning hues and textures. For festive occasions, try adding edible gold flakes or serve it with fresh strawberry halves and pistachio sprinkles artistically arranged on top. Mini skewers with strawberries and pistachios on the side also add a playful touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store your dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh and delicious for up to two days, but be aware that the strawberries might release some juices, slightly softening the texture over time.
Freezing
While this dessert is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the milk mixture separately in an airtight container. However, freezing the assembled dessert is not recommended because fresh strawberries can lose their texture and become watery once thawed.
Reheating
This dessert is designed to be served cold, so reheating isn’t ideal. Instead, bring it out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes if it feels too chilly, then enjoy its full flavors and textures.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Fresh strawberries work best because they provide the perfect texture and flavor. Frozen strawberries tend to be softer and release more water, which might make the dessert watery, but if you’re in a pinch, thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using.
Is the heavy cream necessary?
The heavy cream is optional. It adds extra richness and a creamier texture, but the dessert will still taste amazing without it. Feel free to skip it if you want a lighter version.
Can I substitute pistachios with other nuts?
Absolutely! While pistachios give you that classic nutty vibe and color, almonds or walnuts can make tasty alternatives if you have a nut allergy or prefer a different flavor crunch.
How long does it take to prepare?
One of the best parts of this Dubai Chocolate Dessert with Strawberries and Pistachios Recipe is its quick prep time—about 10 minutes, plus chilling time. It’s a breeze to whip up anytime you’re craving a fresh, sweet treat.
Can I make this dessert vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the milk and condensed milk with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk and coconut condensed milk. Leave out the heavy cream or use coconut cream instead. The flavor will be slightly different but still delightful!
Final Thoughts
This Dubai Chocolate Dessert with Strawberries and Pistachios Recipe is a wonderful treasure for anyone who loves fresh, elegant, and incredibly tasty treats. Its combination of creamy, fruity, and nutty elements makes it a versatile dessert perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with someone special—it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection!
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Dubai Chocolate Dessert with Strawberries and Pistachios Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 to 3 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Description
This Irresistible Dubai Chocolate Recipe is a refreshing and light dessert featuring layers of finely chopped fresh strawberries combined with a creamy milk mixture made from cold milk and sweetened condensed milk. Finished with a garnish of crushed pistachios, desiccated coconut, and an optional drizzle of condensed milk, this no-cook dessert serves as a perfect sweet treat for any time of day, ideal for 2 to 3 servings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, finely chopped
- ½ cup cold milk
- 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for richness)
- 1–2 teaspoons sugar (optional, based on strawberry sweetness)
Garnish
- Crushed pistachios
- Desiccated coconut
- Extra drizzle of condensed milk
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberries: Wash and finely chop the fresh strawberries. The smaller you chop them, the better the texture will be for layering in the dessert.
- Make the Milk Mixture: In a bowl, combine cold milk, sweetened condensed milk, and optional heavy cream. Add sugar if the strawberries are not sweet enough, then stir well until the mixture is smooth and consistent.
- Assemble the Cups: In clear cups or dessert glasses, layer the finely chopped strawberries. Pour a portion of the milk mixture over the strawberries. Repeat layering of strawberries and milk mixture, finishing with the milk mixture on top.
- Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle crushed pistachios and desiccated coconut over the top layer. Add an extra drizzle of condensed milk if desired. Refrigerate and chill the dessert for 20 to 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and for a refreshing cold treat.
- Serve Cold: Enjoy this dessert chilled as a light, fruity treat. Optionally serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Notes
- Choose ripe, sweet strawberries for best flavor, adjusting sugar accordingly.
- Heavy cream is optional but adds extra richness and creaminess.
- Chilling time can be extended for a cooler, more melded dessert.
- This dessert is best served cold but should be consumed within a day for freshness.
- Can be adapted to vegan by using plant-based milk and condensed milk alternatives.
