Dubai-Inspired Super-Premium Chocolate and Pistachio Bar with Katafi: A Luxurious, No-UPF Treat

If you’re a chocolate lover looking to craft something truly exceptional, this Dubai-inspired chocolate and pistachio bar with katafi (shredded filo pastry) is the epitome of indulgence.

Made entirely from premium, no-UPF (ultra-processed food) ingredients, this bar strikes the perfect balance between creamy pistachio, crunchy katafi, and rich chocolate.

By following the steps of a true chocolatier, you’ll create a luxurious treat that’s ready to gift—whether it’s for yourself or someone special.

Elevating Chocolate with No-UPF Ingredients

The idea of avoiding ultra-processed ingredients is key to creating a clean, flavourful, and rich-tasting treat.

By making your own pistachio paste and transforming it into a silky white chocolate pistachio spread, you control the quality and purity of each element. Instead of store-bought versions packed with additives and unnecessary fillers, every ingredient here is carefully chosen for its quality.

This premium approach ensures your creation is as close to handmade perfection as possible, with no compromises on flavour.

A Super-Premium Approach to the Dubai-Inspired Bar

What makes this bar so special is the combination of high-quality ingredients and artisanal techniques.

The homemade white chocolate pistachio spread, combined with the light crunch of katafi and the luxurious snap of tempered chocolate, creates a mouth-watering balance of textures and flavours.

The touch of salt from Rococo’s Milk Sea Salt or Dark Sea Salt Bar elevates the natural nuttiness of the pistachios, cutting through the sweetness and bringing everything together.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 300g premium chocolate (use Rococo’s Milk Sea Salt Bar or Dark Sea Salt Bar Bar for a sophisticated twist)
• 150g white chocolate pistachio spread (see our homemade recipe)
• 50g katafi/knafeh (shredded filo pastry)
• 20g melted butter (for the katafi)
• Crushed pistachios (for decoration)
• Pinch of sea salt (optional, for extra flavour balance)

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your Premium Bar:

1. Prepare the Katafi

Katafi is a key component that adds a delicate crunch to the creamy pistachio and rich chocolate layers. Toss the katafi with melted butter and spread it evenly on a baking tray. Bake at 160°C for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy. Set aside to cool completely, keeping the texture light and airy.

2. Tempering the Chocolate like a Chocolatier

Proper tempering is essential to achieving that glossy, professional finish and the satisfying snap when you bite into the bar. Chop your chocolate into small, even pieces. Melt two-thirds of it in a double boiler, ensuring it reaches a precise 45°C. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining chocolate until the temperature drops to 27°C. Finally, gently warm it back up to 31°C for milk chocolate or 32°C for dark chocolate. This process ensures a stable crystalline structure, giving your chocolate a smooth, velvety texture.

3. Layering the Pistachio Spread

Spread a thin layer of tempered chocolate into your mould or onto a parchment-lined tray, allowing it to set slightly. Next, spread the white chocolate pistachio spread over the chocolate base. The homemade pistachio spread, made with no ultra-processed ingredients, ensures a pure, natural nutty flavour that’s creamy and indulgent without being overly sweet.

4. Add the Katafi Crunch

Once the pistachio spread is set, sprinkle half of your crispy katafi on top to add a delicate crunch. This contrasts beautifully with the smooth spread and rich chocolate layers.

5. Final Chocolate Layer

Pour the remaining tempered chocolate over the pistachio and katafi layers, ensuring the entire bar is coated evenly. Sprinkle the top with crushed pistachios and the remaining katafi for a beautiful decorative finish. A pinch of sea salt can be added to elevate the flavours further and balance the sweetness.

6. Set and Prepare for Gifting

Allow the chocolate bar to set at room temperature for the best results. If you’re short on time, you can refrigerate it briefly, but the slow setting process ensures a better temper.

A Masterpiece Ready for Gifting: Presentation is Everything

Once your Dubai-inspired chocolate bar has set, it’s time to focus on presentation—because a true luxury chocolate bar deserves to be gifted beautifully. For a Rococo-inspired finish, place the bar in a clear cellophane bag, tied with a ribbon for a stunning yet simple presentation. Alternatively, you can opt for an elegant cardboard box to keep your creation a delightful surprise until it’s gifted. Either way, your handmade masterpiece will be perfect for sharing with loved ones or as a luxury treat for yourself.

A Thoughtful, No-UPF Gift

By avoiding ultra-processed ingredients, you’ve not only made a super-premium version of a Dubai-inspired bar, but you’ve also crafted a thoughtful, health-conscious gift. The homemade pistachio spread ensures that each bite bursts with natural flavours, while the high-quality chocolate, free from additives, guarantees a clean and sophisticated finish.

The Rococo Twist: Super-Premium Flavour Meets Perfect Presentation

This recipe doesn’t just result in a delicious chocolate bar—it’s an experience. From the careful tempering of the chocolate to the layering of the no-UPF pistachio spread and katafi crunch, every step brings you closer to a handcrafted treat worthy of any premium chocolatier.

And when it comes to gifting, the attention to detail in presentation makes this chocolate bar feel like a luxury gift. Whether you’re impressing friends and family or treating yourself, this Dubai-inspired bar is a true labour of love, with a Rococo touch.