Inspired by the vibrant dessert culture of the Middle East, these Dubai-style strawberry cups offer a stunning no-bake treat layered with fresh strawberries, crisp golden kataifi, rich pistachio butter, and a duo of dark and white chocolate ganache. A luxurious dessert in a glass that’s as indulgent as it is elegant.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dessert is a celebration of texture and taste. The crispness of sautéed kataifi contrasts beautifully with the soft juiciness of strawberries, while the richness of pistachio cream and silky ganache adds depth and indulgence. Perfect for entertaining or intimate occasions, these dessert cups are visually impressive, incredibly flavorful, and require no oven—making them a smart choice for summer or busy preparations.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 10 fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 ½ cups kataifi (shredded phyllo dough), thawed if frozen
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup pistachio butter
- 3 ½ oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 3 ½ oz white chocolate, chopped
- 7 tbsp heavy cream
Directions
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the kataifi and sauté, stirring frequently, until it becomes crisp and golden brown—about 5 to 7 minutes. Let it cool completely.
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark chocolate with 3 ½ tablespoons of heavy cream. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth. Repeat the same steps for the white chocolate with the remaining cream.
- To assemble, spoon a layer of toasted kataifi into each dessert glass.
- Add a layer of halved strawberries.
- Drizzle generously with pistachio butter and dark chocolate ganache.
- Repeat with another layer of kataifi and strawberries.
- Finish with another drizzle of dark chocolate ganache and a decorative touch of white chocolate.
- Chill for 10–15 minutes for a firmer set, or serve immediately for a warm and gooey texture.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 4 cups
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories per serving: 390 kcal
Variations
- Nut-free option: Replace pistachio butter with a seed-based spread like sunflower seed butter.
- Add crunch: Top with crushed pistachios or roasted almonds for added texture.
- Make it dairy-free: Use plant-based butter, cream, and chocolate alternatives.
- Fruit swap: Use raspberries or cherries as a substitute for strawberries.
- Extra layers: Incorporate a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone between the layers.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Reheating: This dessert is not intended to be reheated. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
What is kataifi and where can I find it?
Kataifi is shredded phyllo dough commonly used in Middle Eastern desserts. It is available in the frozen section of many international or specialty grocery stores.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, but for optimal texture, assemble the dessert no more than a few hours in advance. Store chilled until ready to serve.
Can I substitute pistachio butter with another spread?
Yes. Almond butter or hazelnut spread makes a delicious substitute, though it will change the flavor profile.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
No, kataifi contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, use a substitute like gluten-free granola or crumbled gluten-free cookies.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are preferred for texture and flavor, but well-drained frozen strawberries can be used if fresh are unavailable.
What type of chocolate works best for ganache?
Use high-quality dark and white chocolate bars or chips with a cocoa content of at least 60% for best results.
How do I get a clean layer when assembling?
Use a spoon to gently spread each layer, and wipe down the inside of the glass if needed for a neat presentation.
Can I use ready-made ganache?
Yes, store-bought ganache can be used to save time. Warm slightly before layering.
Can I make this dessert vegan?
Yes. Use plant-based butter, dairy-free chocolate, and coconut cream as substitutes.
Is this dessert child-friendly?
Absolutely. The recipe contains no alcohol or caffeine and is suitable for children with no allergies to dairy or nuts.
Conclusion
Dubai Strawberry Cups with Pistachio Cream and Chocolate Ganache deliver an exceptional no-bake dessert experience that’s as visually captivating as it is delicious. Combining bold Middle Eastern flavors with classic dessert techniques, this recipe offers a truly luxurious treat perfect for impressing guests or indulging in something special.
PrintDubai Strawberry Cups with Pistachio Cream and Chocolate Ganache
Inspired by Middle Eastern indulgence, these no-bake Dubai-style strawberry cups feature layers of fresh strawberries, crispy kataifi, rich pistachio butter, and silky chocolate ganache — a luxurious dessert with vibrant textures and bold flavor contrasts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 cups 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 10 fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 1/2 cups kataifi (shredded phyllo dough), thawed if frozen
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup pistachio butter
- 3 1/2 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 3 1/2 oz white chocolate, chopped
- 7 tbsp heavy cream
Instructions
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add kataifi and sauté, stirring frequently, until crisp and golden brown (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- In a heatproof bowl, combine dark chocolate and 3 ½ tbsp heavy cream. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
- Repeat the same process with white chocolate and remaining 3 ½ tbsp heavy cream.
- To assemble, add a layer of toasted kataifi to the bottom of each dessert glass.
- Spoon in a generous layer of halved strawberries.
- Drizzle with pistachio butter and dark chocolate ganache.
- Add another layer of kataifi and strawberries. Finish with more ganache and a decorative drizzle of white chocolate.
- Chill for 10–15 minutes before serving, or serve immediately if preferred warm.
Notes
- Kataifi should be fully thawed before sautéing if frozen.
- For best presentation, use clear dessert cups or glasses.
- Adjust chocolate amounts to taste for richer or lighter layers.
- Serve chilled for firmer texture or warm for a melty contrast.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg