Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup With Pistachio

Name: Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup With Pistachio
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate; 150g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 50g pistachios, chopped; 1 tablespoon honey; Pinch of sea salt; 4 small dessert cups

Highlighted under: Dessert Delights Co.

I love indulging in rich desserts, and this Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup with Pistachio is one of my favorites. Combining dark chocolate, strawberries, and crunchy pistachios creates a dessert that not only looks stunning but also tastes divine. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or a personal treat. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, making it a truly memorable experience that I can't resist sharing with friends and family.

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:31:11.816Z

During my recent trip to Dubai, I stumbled upon a delightful dessert shop that served a mesmerizing chocolate and strawberry cup topped with pistachios. I couldn’t resist taking notes and replicating it at home. The combination of rich dark chocolate and fresh strawberries creates an explosion of flavors, while the pistachios add a nice crunch that elevates the dessert.

After experimenting with various ingredients and techniques, I discovered that using high-quality chocolate makes all the difference. The melting chocolate combined with the vibrant strawberries and the nuttiness of pistachios creates a sensory experience that I absolutely love. It has quickly become a staple in my recipe collection!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate with a fruity strawberry twist.
Crunchy pistachios add a delightful texture.
Visually stunning and perfect for entertaining.

Crafting the Perfect Chocolate Cups

Creating these chocolate cups requires a careful melting process to achieve a smooth consistency. Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor and texture—opt for chocolates with at least 70% cocoa. Remember to stir the chocolate continuously while it melts over simmering water; this prevents scorching and ensures a silky finish. Once melted, check the chocolate for glossiness. Remove it from heat immediately to maintain its perfect texture.

Coating the inside of the cups is a crucial step. Use a pastry brush for even distribution, or simply tilt the cup to get a thin layer along the edges. It’s important to allow the chocolate to set completely in the fridge for around 10 minutes; this cooling helps the chocolate solidify properly, giving the cup structure and preventing the strawberries from sinking when added.

Enhancing Flavor with Textures

The combination of strawberries and chocolate is a classic for a reason. Fresh strawberries not only add a fruity tartness that balances the richness of the dark chocolate, but they also provide a contrasting texture. Be sure to select ripe, sweet strawberries to enhance the flavor profile. Slice them just before assembling to maintain their freshness and juiciness, ensuring they don't become too soggy inside the cups.

Pistachios introduce a delightful crunch to the mix. When chopping the pistachios, leave some larger pieces for added texture contrast amongst the smooth chocolate. If you prefer a nut-free version, consider substituting with crushed freeze-dried raspberries for a similar textural contrast, although they will introduce a more tangy flavor profile.

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

Presentation plays a key role in this visually stunning dessert. Consider garnishing your cups with a drizzling of chocolate or a few whole strawberries on top for an elegant touch. If serving at a party, you can place the cups on a decorative platter and sprinkle extra chopped pistachios around for added color and flair. This not only elevates the dessert but also invites guests to enjoy the servings visually before diving in.

For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the chocolate cups and layer them with strawberries a day in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator to preserve freshness. When you are ready to serve, simply top with pistachios and allow them to chill for 15 minutes to ensure the components meld beautifully. This boost in flavor from sitting can enhance your final presentation even more.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful treat.

Ingredients

200g dark chocolate
150g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
50g pistachios, chopped
1 tablespoon honey
Pinch of sea salt
4 small dessert cups

With these ingredients ready, you're set to create something special!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect dessert.

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth.

Prepare the Cups

Once melted, coat the inside of the dessert cups with a layer of chocolate. Allow them to set in the fridge for 10 minutes.

Add Strawberries

After the chocolate has hardened, add a layer of sliced strawberries to each cup.

Top with More Chocolate

Pour additional melted chocolate over the strawberries, filling the cups to the rim. Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cups for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow everything to set evenly.

Enjoy your delicious creation with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For best results, use high-quality dark chocolate and fresh strawberries. You can experiment with different nuts if you prefer a change in flavor.

Ingredient Variations and Swaps

While dark chocolate is a traditional choice, you can experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk or white chocolate, for a sweeter alternative. Each type will bring its unique flavor to the dessert. If you're trying to reduce sugar, dark chocolate with higher cocoa content (85% or more) can provide a bold, less sweet option that pairs well with the strawberries' natural sugars.

If strawberries are out of season, feel free to substitute with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries. They’ll add similar color and a burst of flavor. Just keep in mind that different fruits may have varying moisture content, so adjust your layering technique accordingly to prevent excess moisture from affecting the chocolate's integrity.

Storage and Freezing Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, these chocolate strawberry cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to prevent moisture from ruining the chocolate's texture. I recommend consuming them quickly for the best flavor experience, as fresh fruit can degrade over time, losing its crunch and freshness.

For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled cups. Place them in a single layer within an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can last in the freezer for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply move them to the refrigerator to thaw for a few hours before serving, preserving their original textures and flavors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate doesn't set properly, ensure that you’ve cooled it sufficiently before pouring it into the cups. Heat can cause the layers to separate or become too runny when adding the fruits. If you're having trouble with the chocolate clumping when melting, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil to help it remain smooth, which also aids in the glossy finish.

In case you notice that the chocolate cups are too thick to easily bite through, you may have applied too much chocolate in the initial coating. For future batches, a thinner layer will provide enough structure while allowing for an easier experience when enjoying the dessert. Remember, patience is key—allow sufficient chilling time between layers to avoid mistakes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but the dessert will be sweeter and less rich.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these cups in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day ahead; just add the strawberries fresh right before serving.

→ What can I substitute for pistachios?

You can use almonds, walnuts, or even crushed cookies for a different texture.