Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s absolutely show-stopping and bursting with Middle Eastern flair, you’ve got to try this Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Recipe. I first made these bars for a special occasion, and my family went crazy — they loved the crunch of kataifi dough combined with the lush pistachio cream and that dreamy chocolate ganache topping. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll find yourself reaching for them even on ordinary nights because they’re just that good.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture, from the crispy kataifi crust to the creamy cheesecake filling and rich chocolate ganache. When shopping, look for good-quality cream cheese and fresh kataifi dough, which you’ll find in Middle Eastern or well-stocked supermarkets.

• Kataifi dough: This shredded filo pastry gives the bars an incredible crunch; be sure to cut it into smaller pieces for even baking.
• Unsalted butter: Needed to toast the kataifi; using unsalted lets you control the saltiness better.
• Pistachio cream: Adds that unmistakable Middle Eastern nutty sweetness—look for a good quality one or make your own if you’re adventurous.
• Tahini: Provides a lovely depth and slight earthiness that complements the pistachios perfectly.
• Cream cheese: Make sure it’s room temperature—this is key for smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling just right; feel free to adjust slightly for your taste.
• Sour cream: Adds moisture and tang, making the cheesecake extra creamy.
• Vanilla extract: Boosts flavor; quality vanilla makes a difference here.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
• Large eggs: Also room temperature, helping the batter blend smoothly.
• Semi-sweet chocolate: For the ganache; chocolate chips or chopped bars both work great.
• Heavy cream: Used to make the silky chocolate ganache topping.

Variations

I love playing around with these bars—sometimes I swap the pistachio cream for almond or hazelnut spreads for a different nutty vibe. You can also make them gluten-free by substituting the kataifi dough with a nut crust, though it’s not quite the same texture. Feel free to tweak the chocolate topping with dark or milk chocolate depending on your preference!

• Nut Variations: I’ve tried pistachio cream as well as almond butter; each gives a distinct, delicious personality to the bars.
• Chocolate Options: Using dark chocolate adds a more intense flavor, which my family especially adores.
• Dietary Adjustments: You can use lactose-free cream cheese and coconut cream to make a dairy-free version.

How to Make Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Step 1: Toast the Kataifi Dough for the Perfect Crunch

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt the unsalted butter in a large bowl, then mix in the small shredded pieces of kataifi dough until they’re evenly coated. Spread this mixture on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10 minutes or until golden and crispy. This step is so crucial because it transforms the kataifi from a raw texture into that irresistible crunchy crust your bars will be known for.

Step 2: Prepare the Nutty Kataifi Crust Base

Once toasted, fold half of the kataifi into a bowl with the pistachio cream and tahini. Press this mixture firmly into the base of a lined baking pan. I like to use a 9×13 inch pan for this recipe for nice, even bars. This creates a flavorful and sturdy foundation that makes the bars so unique compared to your typical cheesecake.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and beat again until fully combined. Then stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, salt, and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This is where patience and room temperature ingredients really pay off because the batter comes out silky and free of lumps—exactly what you want for creamy cheesecake bars.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake Your Bars

Pour the cheesecake batter over the kataifi crust base and smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining kataifi dough over the cheesecake layer to add a lovely crunchy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Let it cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight—this chilling time is key for the bars to set perfectly.

Step 5: Finish with Silky Chocolate Ganache

To make the ganache, gently heat the heavy cream until just simmering and pour it over the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Spread the ganache evenly over the chilled bars and pop them back into the fridge for about 30 minutes to set. This finishing touch seals in the flavors and gives the bars that luscious chocolatey top you’ll want to dive into immediately.

How to Serve Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a pinch of crushed pistachios and a light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving. Sometimes, a few edible rose petals or a drizzle of honey over the ganache adds a delicate and fancy touch that’s perfect for entertaining. These small tweaks add a pop of color and an extra layer of texture and flavor you’ll appreciate.

Side Dishes

These bars are rich and decadent on their own, but they’re wonderful alongside a cup of strong coffee or mint tea. For a party, I often serve fresh berries or a light citrus salad to brighten the richness. The balance of flavors between creamy, crunchy, and fresh really makes the dessert experience complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I sometimes cut the bars into fancy diamond shapes instead of squares, arranging them on a platter in a beautiful pattern. Layering the platter with banana leaves or decorative doilies and adding rosewater-scented whipped cream on the side never fails to impress guests and makes serving feel extra festive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover bars tightly covered in the fridge, usually in an airtight container. They stay fresh and maintain their delightful texture for up to 4 days. Just be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

These bars freeze beautifully — I usually cut them into individual servings before wrapping each piece in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. When I want one, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bring it to room temperature before eating. The texture holds up well, and the chocolate ganache stays smooth.

Reheating

Reheating is typically unnecessary for these cheesecake bars since they’re best served chilled. But if you want to soften the chocolate slightly, just let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can change the texture of the cheesecake and ganache.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Recipe brings together such a unique blend of textures and Middle Eastern flavors in one elegant dessert. It’s become my go-to when I want to wow friends or treat my family to something unforgettable without hours of fuss. If you give it a try, I bet you’ll find yourself making it again and again — and telling everyone about that perfect crunchy, creamy, chocolatey bite that only these bars can deliver.

Print