Dubai’s viral chocolate bar has taken the confectionery world by storm, captivating sweet-toothed enthusiasts globally. This indulgent treat from the UAE combines rich milk chocolate with luscious pistachio cream and crispy knafeh (shredded filo pastry), offering a unique texture and flavor profile that has garnered widespread acclaim.
Rise of Dubai’s Viral Chocolate Bar
The journey of this delectable creation began in 2021 when British-Egyptian entrepreneur Sarah Hamouda founded Fix Dessert Chocolatier in Dubai. Inspired by her pregnancy cravings, Hamouda sought to craft a chocolate bar that transcended typical offerings, focusing on innovative fillings and textures. The “Can’t Get Knafeh Of It” bar featured a harmonious blend of Middle Eastern flavors encased in premium milk chocolate.
The bar’s popularity soared in December 2023 after a TikTok video by influencer Maria Vehera showcased the treat, amassing over 90 million views. This viral moment propelled chocolate into the global spotlight, leading to a surge in demand and inspiring confectioners worldwide to replicate its distinctive taste and presentation.
Experiencing the Sensation in London
For those in London eager to indulge in this Middle Eastern delight, several establishments offer their interpretations of the viral chocolate bar:
Maison Samadi London: Renowned for its luxurious chocolate creations, Maison Samadi presents a version of the Dubai-inspired bar. Their Kunafa (Knafeh) & Pistachio Dubai Viral Milk Chocolate bar combines rich chocolate with the exotic sweetness of kunafa and nutty pistachio. Priced at £15.75 for a 110g bar, it’s available in-store and online.
Sehr-i Antep: Specializing in authentic Turkish desserts, this Enfield-based family shop offers a rendition of the viral chocolate bar, incorporating crispy knafeh and creamy pistachio spread. Weighing 290g, their version is priced at £19.99 and can be found at their London location.
Qoqoa: This chocolatier has crafted a version of the bar using primarily Turkish ingredients, staying true to the original’s flavor profile. Their offering is available for £20, catering to those seeking an authentic taste experience.
The Lindt Adaptation
Recognizing the global appeal of the Dubai chocolate phenomenon, Swiss chocolatier Lindt introduced its own “Dubai-Style” chocolate bar to the UK market in December 2024. This limited-edition 145g bar features a crunchy pistachio mixture topped with Kadayif pastry, encapsulated in Lindt’s signature smooth milk chocolate. Priced at £10, it is available in select stores across the UK.
Crafting Your Own at Home
Numerous online tutorials guide culinary enthusiasts interested in recreating this indulgence at home. These resources offer insights into assembling the perfect balance of milk chocolate, pistachio cream, and crispy knafeh, allowing you to enjoy a homemade version of the viral sensation.
Global Confectionery Phenomenon
The widespread popularity of Dubai’s chocolate bar underscores the power of social media in influencing food trends and consumer preferences. Its unique combination of flavors and textures has not only delighted taste buds but also inspired a wave of creativity among chocolatiers and home cooks alike.
