Dubai Chocolate Kunafa isn’t just dessert it’s a full-blown obsession. Imagine buttery kunafa strands hugging molten chocolate and stretchy cheese, baked until golden, then drenched in warm syrup. This Middle Eastern treat delivers the perfect mix of sweet, salty, and crunchy. One bite and you’ll get why this chocolate kunafa recipe has taken Dubai’s dessert scene by storm. And honestly? You’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner.
Why This Recipe Works (Spoiler: It’s Stupidly Delicious)
This isn’t just kunafa with chocolate slapped on top.
The magic lies in the layers—crispy shredded phyllo, gooey cheese, and dark chocolate that melts into a river of joy. The syrup soaks in just enough to keep it moist without turning it into a soggy mess. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy.
And yes, it’s as extra as it sounds.
Ingredients (AKA The Holy Grail Shopping List)
- Kunafa dough (shredded phyllo pastry) – 500g
- Unsalted butter – 200g, melted (because we’re not monsters)
- Dark chocolate – 200g, chopped (or chips if you’re lazy)
- Mozzarella cheese – 150g, shredded (for that epic pull)
- Akkawi cheese – 150g, optional but highly recommended
- Sugar syrup – 1 cup (store-bought or homemade)
- Pistachios – for garnish (because fancy)
Step-by-Step Instructions (Don’t Screw This Up)
- Prep the dough: Mix kunafa dough with melted butter until every strand is coated. Divide into two equal parts.
- Layer it: Press the first half into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle chocolate and cheese evenly. Top with the second half of dough.
- Bake: Pop it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Syrup it: Pour warm sugar syrup over the hot kunafa. Let it soak for 5 minutes.
- Garnish: Crush pistachios over the top because presentation matters.
- Serve: Cut into squares and try not to eat the whole tray in one sitting (good luck).
Storage Instructions (If You Have Leftovers, Which You Won’t)
Store leftovers (lol) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to revive the crispiness.
Microwaving is a crime—don’t do it.
Why This Recipe Is a Game-Changer
It’s easy but looks impressive AF. The combo of chocolate and cheese is a flavor bomb. It’s customizable (swap fillings, go nuts).
Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—unless your crowd hates joy.
Common Mistakes (AKA How to Ruin Perfectly Good Kunafa)
- Overloading the cheese: Too much = a greasy mess. Stick to the ratios.
- Cold syrup: Always pour warm syrup on hot kunafa. Cold syrup = soggy sadness.
- Undermixing the dough: Every strand needs butter. Every. Single. One.
Alternatives (For the Rebellious Souls)
- White chocolate: Swap dark for white chocolate if you’re feeling fancy.
- Nutella: Spread a layer instead of chopped chocolate for extra decadence.
- No cheese? Use ricotta or skip it entirely (but why would you?).
Craving something quick and crave-worthy?
Dive into Lazy Bites your shortcut to cheesy snacks, sweet treats, and no-fuss sides that hit the spot fast. Perfect for snack attacks, lazy weekends, or last-minute party spreads. Grab a bite now no stress, just flavor.
Dubai Chocolate Kunafa
Ingredients
- 500 g kunafa dough (shredded phyllo pastry)
- 200 g unsalted butter, melted
- 200 g dark chocolate, chopped or chips
- 150 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 150 g Akkawi cheese optional but recommended
- 1 cup sugar syrup store-bought or homemade, warm
- pistachios crushed, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish.
- Mix kunafa dough with melted butter until all strands are well coated. Divide into two equal portions.
- Press one half of the buttered kunafa into the bottom of the baking dish to form an even layer.
- Evenly sprinkle chopped chocolate, shredded mozzarella, and Akkawi cheese over the base.
- Cover with the second half of the kunafa dough, pressing gently to seal.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
- Immediately pour warm sugar syrup over the hot kunafa and let it soak for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with crushed pistachios. Cut into squares and serve warm.
Notes
Nutrition
FAQs (Because Someone Always Asks)
Can I use pre-made kunafa dough?
Yes, but fresh is best.
Pre-made works in a pinch—just don’t tell the kunafia purists.
What if I don’t have Akkawi cheese?
Mozzarella alone works, but Akkawi adds authenticity. No stress though—this isn’t a cheese interrogation.
Can I freeze chocolate kunafa?
Technically yes, but the texture won’t be the same. Eat it fresh.
You’ll thank me later.
Why is my kunafa soggy?
You either drowned it in syrup or didn’t bake it long enough. Crispiness is non-negotiable.
Final Thoughts
Dubai’s chocolate kunafa is the dessert equivalent of a mic drop. It’s indulgent, unforgettable, and easier to make than you’d think.
Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself (no judgment), this recipe delivers. Now go forth and bake like a boss. 🚀
Follow Lazy Meal Prep on your favorite platform and become part of our cozy kitchen crew:
- Instagram – for behind-the-scenes peeks and weekday inspiration
- Facebook – to swap ideas, tips, and share what you’re cooking
- Pinterest – to save and plan your week the lazy-smart way
Let’s make cooking easier, together—one delicious bite at a time.
