As the sun sets on a balmy evening, I often find myself dreaming of a sweet escape—something indulgent yet light to enjoy on a warm night. That’s how I stumbled upon these delightful Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars, inspired by the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern desserts. Picture this: the satisfying crunch of toasted kataifi, paired with rich pistachio cream, all encased in silky milk chocolate. It’s an unexpected fusion that transforms a classic treat into an extraordinary experience!
Sometimes, the best moments in the kitchen arise from a simple desire to elevate our dessert game. After overindulging in fast food, I wanted something refreshing yet luscious, and these bars fit the bill perfectly. They’re not just easy to make; they are also a charming way to impress friends at your next gathering. You’ll find that each luscious bite is a celebration of flavors that hints at adventure without the hassle.
So, let’s dive into making these stunning treats that promise to bring a little Dubai magic right to your home!
Why love Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars?
Indulgence awaits with every bite: these bars are a perfect blend of crispy kataifi and rich pistachio cream, offering a unique dessert experience. Easy to make at home, even novice chefs can impress guests without the stress. Crowd-pleaser status guaranteed—everyone will rave about these decadent treats! Plus, customizable to your tastes with optional drizzles and toppings, they’re perfect for any occasion. For more delightful variations, check out my guide on creative ice cream desserts!
Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars Ingredients
For the Base
• Unsalted butter – adds richness and aids in toasting the kataifi to perfection.
• Kataifi – provides a delightful crunch and a unique texture that is a staple in Middle Eastern desserts.
For the Filling
• Pistachio cream – brings an unmatched, nutty flavor that embodies the essence of the Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars.
• Tahini – enhances the creaminess while adding a subtle nuttiness to the filling.
• Pinch of salt – balances the sweetness and elevates all the flavors in the dessert.
For the Ice Cream Layer
• Ice cream (recommended: Baskin Robbins Pistachio Almond) – adds a smooth and creamy layer that complements the filling beautifully.
For the Coating
• Milk chocolate – creates a luscious chocolate shell that wraps the bars in decadence.
• Refined coconut oil (or canola oil) – helps achieve that perfect glossy finish when mixed with the chocolate.
Optional Topping
• Chopped pistachios – adds an extra crunch and visual appeal when sprinkled on top.
• Green candy melts – for a fun and colorful drizzle that makes these bars even more enticing.
• Edible gold dust – a luxurious touch for a festive atmosphere, great for special occasions!
With these ingredients, you’re one step closer to whipping up a batch of your very own Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars, perfect for a warm evening treat!
How to Make Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars
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Thaw kataifi: Place the kataifi on the counter for about 2 hours or overnight in the fridge. Finely chop it using a sharp knife or pulse in a food processor until it’s well broken down.
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Toast kataifi: In a large pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the thawed kataifi and toast it, stirring constantly, until it turns golden and amber, approximately 8-10 minutes.
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Mix filling: Once the kataifi is toasted, transfer it to a mixing bowl and let it cool completely. After cooling, add pistachio cream, tahini, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until well combined.
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Fill molds: Spoon the filling into each ice cream bar cavity, filling them about ⅓ full (approximately 36g each). Tap the mold gently to prevent any air pockets, then insert wooden sticks and freeze for 30 minutes.
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Add ice cream layer: When ready, allow the ice cream to soften slightly by letting it sit at room temperature or microwave it for 20-30 seconds. Spoon or pour the ice cream on top of the set filling until the cavities are full (approximately 42g each). Freeze for a minimum of 2 hours or overnight for best results.
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Melt chocolate coating: Once the ice cream layer is fully frozen, combine the refined coconut oil and chopped chocolate in a heat-safe bowl. Melt it in the microwave in short bursts of 20-30 seconds, or use a double boiler, stirring until smooth.
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Dunk bars: Carefully pour the melted chocolate into a narrow glass that’s deep enough to dunk the bars. Let the chocolate cool to room temperature (approximately 80℉) before you proceed.
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Coat the bars: Detach the frozen ice cream bars from the mold and dunk each one into the chocolate, ensuring it reaches the wooden stick. Let any excess chocolate drip off, then hold the bar vertically until the chocolate hardens, and lay them down on parchment paper. Place the bars back into the freezer as you dunk the rest.
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Optional topping: For an extra touch, melt some pistachio cream and green candy melts together and drizzle over the bars. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios before it sets, and for a festive flair, lightly dust with edible gold dust.
Optional: Add whipped cream on the side for an indulgent twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your personal touch on these delightful bars to make them your own!
- Nut-Free: Substitute pistachio cream with sunflower seed butter for a similar creaminess without any nuts.
- Vegan: Use coconut or almond ice cream and swap milk chocolate with dairy-free chocolate chips. Enjoy the same lusciousness!
- Flavor Abundance: Infuse your filling with a splash of rose water or orange blossom for an aromatic twist that sings of the Middle East.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chocolate coating for a delightful heat that perfectly contrasts the sweetness.
- Gourmet Topping: Drizzle with a rich chocolate ganache instead of melted chocolate for an extra depth of flavor and a professional touch.
- Fruity Layer: Layer in pieces of your favorite fruit like raspberries or mango in between the filling and ice cream for a fruity surprise!
- Crunchy Texture: Fold in finely crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs into the kataifi for an added crunch that makes every bite interesting.
- Caramel Drizzle: Enhance the decadent factor by drizzling with salted caramel sauce before freezing, transforming ordinary into extraordinary!
With these delightful variations, your Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars will not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also become a canvas for your culinary creativity!
How to Store and Freeze Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars
Fridge: Keep the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help preserve their flavor and texture, though freezing is recommended for longer storage.
Freezer: To maintain the best quality, store the Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For a delightful experience, let the bars sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before enjoying. This softens the ice cream just enough to enhance every luscious bite.
Serving Tips: If desired, you can drizzle extra melted chocolate or toppings over the bars right before serving for an elegant finish.
Expert Tips for Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars
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Kataifi Consistency: Make sure to finely chop the thawed kataifi to ensure it toasts evenly, creating that delightful crunch. Avoid large clumps!
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Cooling Time: Allow the kataifi to cool completely before mixing in the pistachio cream and tahini; this helps keep the final texture light and prevents melting the filling.
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Avoid Air Pockets: When filling the ice cream bar cavities, gently tap the mold to minimize air pockets. This step ensures a smooth, cohesive texture in your Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars.
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Chocolate Temperature: Let the melted chocolate cool slightly before dunking the frozen bars. This prevents the chocolate from sliding off and ensures a thick, glossy coating.
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Freezing Time: For the best results, freeze the bars for at least 2 hours or overnight after adding the ice cream layer. This ensures they hold their shape when being coated in chocolate.
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Creative Toppings: Feel free to customize your bars with different toppings or drizzles. Adding chopped pistachios enhances both flavor and presentation!
Make Ahead Options
These Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while still indulging in deliciousness! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the steps to toast the kataifi and mix it with the pistachio cream, tahini, and salt. Once your filling is made, simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its quality. You can also assemble the ice cream bars completely and keep them frozen for up to 3 days before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, just melt the chocolate coating, dunk the bars, and allow them to set. This prep-ahead strategy ensures your delightful dessert is just as delicious, stressful, and oh-so-easy to share!
What to Serve with Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars?
Indulge in a dreamy dessert experience by pairing these delightful treats with complementary flavors and textures that enhance their unique charm.
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Fresh Mint Leaves: Brighten your dessert plate with fresh mint; its coolness beautifully contrasts the rich sweetness of the bars. A simple garnish of mint can elevate your presentation while adding a refreshing note.
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Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey offers a touch of natural sweetness that enhances the nutty flavors. Its golden hue and viscous texture create a stunning visual that invites guests to dig in!
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries, oranges, and pomegranates brings a refreshing juiciness. This vibrant combination complements the creamy pistachio ice cream bars while adding a burst of natural sweetness.
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Turmeric Spiced Tea: A warm cup of turmeric tea adds a cozy touch that balances the coolness of the bars. The earthy spices harmonize beautifully, creating a comforting beverage pairing.
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Chocolate Sauce: For an extra touch of decadence, offer warm chocolate sauce on the side. This rich addition allows everyone to customize the experience, ensuring these treats remain the star of the show!
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Baklava Bites: These sweet, flaky snacks echo the Middle Eastern flavors of the bars. Their crisp, nutty layers create an inviting dessert spread that takes your taste buds on an enchanting journey.
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Lemon Sorbet: A tart, citrus sorbet adds a refreshing contrast and cleanses the palate. Its lightness keeps the dessert experience balanced, making for a perfect ending to a warm evening.
Enjoying Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars with these delightful pairings creates a multi-sensory feast that will leave your friends and family craving more!
Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best kataifi?
Absolutely! When selecting kataifi, look for fresh, thin strands without any dry spots or clumps. It should be soft and spongy to the touch. If you find any that have dark spots or are exceedingly dry, those can affect the texture of your bars, so definitely opt for a fresh package.
How should I store leftover Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars?
You can keep these bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, for longer storage, I recommend moving them to a freezer-safe container or tightly wrapping them in plastic wrap. In the freezer, they’ll maintain their yummy qualities for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze these ice cream bars? If so, how?
Yes! To freeze, place the molded bars in a freezer-safe container or carefully wrap them in plastic wrap without sticking the ice cream onto the wrap. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes for a perfectly softened texture.
What if my chocolate coating isn’t setting properly?
Very! If your chocolate isn’t setting, it might be because it’s too warm when you dunk the bars. Make sure that the chocolate has cooled to room temperature, around 80℉, before dunking. Additionally, a thicker layer can help it set better. If needed, try placing the dipped bars back in the freezer for a few minutes to firm up the chocolate coating.
Are there any dietary considerations I need to be aware of?
Definitely! For those with nut allergies, you may want to replace the pistachio cream with a nut-free spread like sunbutter or a seed-based butter. Similarly, ensure that the chocolate and ice cream you choose are free from allergens you need to avoid. If you’re cooking for pets, remember that chocolate is toxic to dogs and should be kept away from them at all costs!
Can I use different types of chocolate for coating?
Absolutely! While milk chocolate is recommended for a decadent flavor, dark chocolate can be a wonderful alternative for a slightly bitter contrast, enhancing the overall taste. For a creamier finish, you might even try white chocolate mixed with a touch of coconut oil!
Indulge in Dubai Pistachio Ice Cream Bars with a Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Thaw kataifi by placing it on the counter for about 2 hours or overnight in the fridge, then finely chop it.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add thawed kataifi and toast, stirring constantly, until golden (about 8-10 minutes).
- Transfer the toasted kataifi to a mixing bowl and let it cool completely. Once cooled, add pistachio cream, tahini, and salt. Mix well.
- Spoon the filling into ice cream bar molds, filling about ⅓ full. Insert sticks and freeze for 30 minutes.
- Allow ice cream to soften slightly and then spoon/pour it on top of the filling until full. Freeze for a minimum of 2 hours or overnight.
- Combine refined coconut oil and chopped chocolate in a heat-safe bowl. Melt in microwave or double boiler until smooth.
- Carefully pour melted chocolate into a narrow glass. Let it cool to about 80℉ before coating the bars.
- Detach frozen bars from mold and dunk each in chocolate, ensuring it coats evenly. Let excess chocolate drip off and harden.
- For an optional topping, melt extra pistachio cream and green candy melts together and drizzle over bars. Sprinkle with pistachios and gold dust.