Dubai’s viral chocolate has been making headlines due to its immense popularity and a recent incident involving a woman attempting to smuggle 460 bars of the sweet treat through Hamburg Airport. The flyer is now under investigation for possible tax evasion after failing to declare the 90kg of Dubai chocolate she was carrying. The bars, which were not properly labelled with ingredients or allergen information, were valued at around €2,100 (£1,759) by customs officials.
The Dubai chocolate, originally created by Sarah Hamouda in 2021, gained fame for its unique fillings like pistachio cream and knafeh, crispy shredded filo pastry. The brand, FIX Dessert Chocolatier, has since expanded its range to include other flavours like vanilla custard and Lotus cheesecake spread. The handmade bars are sold for $20 each (£16.51) and have garnered a loyal following both in Dubai and internationally.
The popularity of Dubai chocolate skyrocketed after a viral TikTok video by food influencer Maria Vehera in 2023, praising the treat as a combination of “a chocolate, a dessert, and a piece of art.” This video amassed millions of views and led to a surge in orders for FIX, prompting the founders to scale up production and move to a larger facility.
For chocolate enthusiasts looking to recreate the Dubai chocolate at home, a recipe using pistachio cream, tahini, kataifi (shredded phyllo dough), butter, and melted milk chocolate has been shared online. The process involves preparing the chocolate, making the filling with kataifi, tahini, and pistachio cream, layering it in a mould, and allowing it to set in the fridge.
In conclusion, Dubai’s viral chocolate has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of chocolate lovers worldwide, with its innovative flavours, artistic designs, and captivating social media presence. Whether enjoyed in Dubai or made at home, this delectable treat continues to delight and inspire chocolate enthusiasts everywhere.