If you’re looking for a dessert that is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious, the Dubai Strawberry Cup Recipe is exactly what you need. This dessert beautifully combines the crispy, golden kataifi pastry with rich pistachio and tahini cream, fresh strawberries, and a luscious drizzle of dark chocolate. It’s easy to make yet feels incredibly luxurious, perfectly balancing texture and flavor in every bite. Trust me when I say this is one recipe you’ll want to share with friends and make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Dubai Strawberry Cup Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—from the nutty pistachio cream lending smooth richness to the fresh strawberries that add a burst of freshness, not to mention the crunchy kataifi and silky dark chocolate that pull everything together.
- Salted butter (3 tablespoons, 42g): Provides a rich base for toasting the kataifi, adding depth and a perfect golden crust.
- Kataifi (4 ounces shredded fillo dough): Crisp and flaky, this forms the crunchy layers that contrast beautifully with creamy fillings.
- Pistachio cream (7 ounces, 200g, or Nutella): Adds nutty sweetness and creamy texture essential to the dessert’s flavor profile.
- Tahini sesame paste (2 tablespoons, 30g): Introduces subtle earthiness that balances the sweetness and enriches the layers.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness from feeling cloying.
- Strawberries (21 whole): Fresh, juicy, and slightly tart, they bring freshness and vibrancy to every mouthful.
- Dark chocolate melting wafers (5 ounces, 141g): Smooth and decadent, this chocolate ties all the layers together.
- Chopped pistachios (2 tablespoons): Adds an extra crunch and a pop of color as a delightful garnish.
How to Make Dubai Strawberry Cup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Kataifi
Start by placing the 4 ounces of kataifi shredded fillo dough into a large bowl. Use your hands to gently crush the strands into smaller pieces about half an inch long. This breaking down ensures even toasting and creates a delicate, flaky texture that is essential for the layers.
Step 2: Toast the Kataifi in Butter
Melt 3 tablespoons of salted butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once melted, add the kataifi and reduce the heat to low. Stir frequently to toast the kataifi evenly, allowing it to transform into a beautifully golden and crisp component. This careful toasting is what builds the base for those satisfyingly crunchy bites.
Step 3: Mix the Pistachio and Tahini Cream
In the same bowl where you crushed the kataifi, combine 7 ounces of pistachio cream, 2 tablespoons of tahini sesame paste, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Stir these creamy ingredients well to create a luscious mixture that will add rich flavor and smooth texture to the dessert’s layers.
Step 4: Combine Kataifi and Cream Mixture
Pour your golden toasted kataifi into the bowl with the pistachio and tahini cream. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring every crumb is coated. Let this mixture sit and cool while you prepare the strawberries, as this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Prepare the Strawberries
Wash and dry all 21 strawberries carefully. Set aside 3 whole strawberries for the final garnish. Remove the stems from the remaining berries and quarter them. Place 12 quarters at the bottom of three 12-ounce cups or two 16-ounce cups, creating a juicy fruit base that adds brightness and color to the cups.
Step 6: Melt and Drizzle the Dark Chocolate
Melt the 5 ounces of dark chocolate wafers in a microwave-safe bowl using 30-second intervals, stirring well between each to ensure a smooth, shiny finish. Drizzle about a tablespoon of the melted chocolate over the strawberries in each cup, adding a rich, bittersweet touch that complements the fruit perfectly.
Step 7: Add Pistachios and Kataifi Mixture Layers
Sprinkle a portion of the 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios over the melted chocolate, adding texture and a pop of green color. Then, scoop two spoonfuls of the kataifi mixture into each cup, gently pressing it toward the edges for an even layer. Repeat these layering steps for a second round, building up beautiful, flavor-packed cups.
Step 8: Finish with Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Garnish
Dip the reserved 3 strawberries into the remaining melted chocolate and place one atop each cup. For a final flourish, drizzle any leftover chocolate over the strawberry-topped cups and sprinkle with the remaining chopped pistachios. This finishing touch brings elegance and a promising hint of the sweetness to come.
How to Serve Dubai Strawberry Cup Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you can add your personal style. Fresh mint leaves or edible rose petals make stunning options, adding visual appeal and a hint of herbal freshness that pairs wonderfully with the nutty, fruity layers inside. The chocolate-dipped strawberry on top is not only a treat for the eyes but also a delicious preview!
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs beautifully with light, creamy sides such as whipped cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt lightly sweetened with honey. They provide a cool, mellow contrast to the rich kataifi mixture. For those who prefer beverages, a lightly brewed green tea or a sparkling rosé makes an elegant accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can elevate the Dubai Strawberry Cup Recipe to another level. Try serving it in clear glass tumblers or small mason jars to show off the stunning layers and vibrant colors. For gatherings, individual portions make a charming choice, or you can layer the ingredients in a large trifle bowl for a lovely communal dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, cover the cups tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just remember that the kataifi may lose some of its crunch, but the flavors will remain delicious and rich.
Freezing
This dessert is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended. The texture of the kataifi and fresh strawberries does not hold up well after freezing, which can lead to sogginess and loss of that delightful crispness.
Reheating
Since this dessert features fresh fruit and delicate layers, reheating is not necessary or ideal. If you prefer serving it slightly warmer, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before tasting — this helps soften the chocolate and intensify the aroma without sacrificing texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute Nutella for the pistachio cream?
Absolutely! Nutella offers a rich, chocolate-hazelnut twist that many people enjoy. While it changes the flavor slightly, it maintains the creamy, indulgent texture that’s essential for this recipe.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make it vegan by replacing the butter with a plant-based alternative, using a vegan pistachio cream, and opting for dairy-free chocolate wafers. Just keep an eye on the ingredients labels to ensure they fit your dietary needs.
What is the best way to crush kataifi dough?
Using your hands is the easiest and most effective way. Gently pull apart the shredded dough into smaller pieces about half an inch in length to help it toast evenly and achieve that perfect crispy texture.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe because they hold their texture and flavor better. Frozen strawberries tend to release more moisture and can make the dessert soggy.
How far in advance can I prepare the layers?
You can prepare the kataifi mixture a few hours ahead and refrigerate it. Assemble the cups just before serving to keep the layers fresh and maintain the contrasting textures.
Final Thoughts
This Dubai Strawberry Cup Recipe is a delightful celebration of textures and flavors that will impress anyone lucky enough to try it. Its balance of crispy kataifi, rich pistachio cream, fresh strawberries, and silky chocolate makes it a dessert you won’t soon forget. I really encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’re going to fall in love with every spoonful!
Print
Dubai Strawberry Cup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 3 to 3.3 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Description
Dubai Strawberry Cup is a decadent layered dessert featuring crunchy toasted kataifi (shredded fillo dough) blended with rich pistachio cream and tahini, layered with fresh strawberries and drizzled with smooth dark chocolate. This irresistible treat combines textures and flavors inspired by Middle Eastern ingredients, perfect as an elegant yet simple sweet dish for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
For the Toasted Kataifi Mixture
- 3 tablespoons salted butter (42g)
- 4 ounces kataifi (shredded fillo dough)
- 7 ounces pistachio cream (200g, or Nutella)
- 2 tablespoons tahini sesame paste (30g)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Strawberry Layers and Garnish
- 21 strawberries
- 5 ounces dark chocolate melting wafers (141g)
- 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios
Instructions
- Prepare the Kataifi Dough: Add 4 ounces of kataifi (shredded fillo dough) to a large bowl and break it into fine pieces about ½-inch in length using your hands for ease.
- Toast the Kataifi: Melt 3 tablespoons of salted butter over medium-low heat in a large skillet. Once melted, add the kataifi dough into the skillet.
- Brown the Kataifi: Reduce the heat to low and stir the kataifi continually to evenly toast it until it becomes golden brown and crisp, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
- Mix the Cream Base: In the same bowl used for the dough, combine 7 ounces of pistachio cream, 2 tablespoons of tahini sesame paste, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine Toasted Kataifi with Cream: Pour the toasted kataifi into the pistachio mixture and mix thoroughly so all the pieces are evenly coated. Set the mixture aside to cool while you prep the strawberries.
- Prepare the Strawberries: Wash and dry all 21 strawberries. Set aside 3 whole strawberries for garnish. Remove the stems from the remaining strawberries and quarter them. Place 12 of these strawberry quarters evenly at the bottom of three 12-ounce cups (or alternately, two 16-ounce cups).
- Melt the Chocolate: Melt 5 ounces of dark chocolate melting wafers by heating in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until completely melted and smooth.
- Add Chocolate and Nuts: Drizzle about one tablespoon of the melted chocolate over the strawberry quarters in each cup. Then sprinkle some of the 2 tablespoons of chopped pistachios over the chocolate layer.
- Layer the Kataifi Mixture: Add 2 scoops of the kataifi-pistachio mixture on top of the pistachio chocolate layer in each cup. Gently press the mixture down so it touches the sides of the cup for stability.
- Repeat the Layering: Repeat the layering steps by adding another layer of strawberries, chocolate drizzle, chopped pistachios, and the kataifi mixture, building up the dessert cups.
- Garnish and Finish: Dip the reserved 3 whole strawberries into the remaining melted chocolate and place one on top of each cup. Drizzle the tops of the cups with any remaining chocolate and sprinkle the last of the crushed pistachios for a crunchy, elegant finish.
Notes
- Kataifi dough is very delicate; handle gently while breaking up pieces to maintain a flaky texture.
- Use good quality pistachio cream or Nutella depending on your preference for nutty versus chocolate flavor.
- Dark chocolate melting wafers melt smoothly and set faster than regular chocolate chips, making layering easier.
- This dessert is best served slightly chilled but not refrigerated for too long to maintain kataifi’s crispiness.
- Adjust sweetness by choosing sweeter or less sweet chocolate and varying the amount of pistachio cream.
