Dubai is known for its luxurious and indulgent desserts, and a chocolate strawberry cup is a perfect treat to recreate at home. Here’s a recipe inspired by the rich flavors of Dubai, combining decadent chocolate and fresh strawberries:
Dubai-Inspired Chocolate Strawberry Cups
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), chopped
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, washed and diced
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tsp rose water (optional, for a Middle Eastern touch)
- Edible gold leaf or gold dust (optional, for a luxurious finish)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chocolate Cups:
- Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler or in the microwave (stirring every 20 seconds to avoid burning).
- Line a muffin tin with silicone or paper liners.
- Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of melted chocolate into each liner, using the back of a spoon to spread the chocolate up the sides to create a cup shape.
- Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to set the chocolate.
2. Make the Strawberry Filling:
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until warm (do not boil).
- Remove from heat and add 1/4 cup of the melted chocolate, stirring until smooth. Add honey or sugar if desired for extra sweetness.
- Stir in the rose water (if using) for a fragrant Middle Eastern twist.
- Let the chocolate mixture cool slightly, then fold in the diced strawberries.
3. Assemble the Cups:
- Remove the chocolate cups from the refrigerator.
- Spoon the strawberry-chocolate mixture into each cup, filling them almost to the top.
- Drizzle a little extra melted chocolate over the top for decoration.
- If desired, add a touch of edible gold leaf or dust for a luxurious Dubai-inspired finish.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
4. Chill and Serve:
- Return the cups to the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to set.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Optional Additions:
- Add a layer of crushed pistachios or almonds for a nutty crunch.
- Use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter variation.
- Infuse the cream with a pinch of saffron for an extra luxurious touch.
This dessert is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a taste of Dubai’s decadence! Let me know if you’d like more dessert ideas. 😊
