Dubai Strawberry Cups

In the bustling heart of Dubai, one indulgent treat steals the spotlight: the exquisite Dubai Strawberry Cups. This delightful dessert combines juicy strawberries with creamy pistachio and crispy konafah, creating an exceptional balance of flavors and textures. The process takes about 30 minutes, yet it’s remarkably simple, making it a perfect choice for any home cook.

These cups are ideal for anyone who enjoys a sweet, unique dessert that impresses guests at gatherings or simply satisfies a craving at home. They can be prepared in advance, making it easy to store and serve at a moment’s notice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The crispy konafah adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
• The creamy pistachio flavor elevates the sweetness of strawberries.
• It can be layered in a cup for a stunning presentation.
• Quick to prepare—ready to enjoy in just 30 minutes!

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to whip up these delightful cups:

For the Base

• 1 quart strawberries, sliced, or more or less to taste
• 1 jar pistachio cream (10.5 oz, use 1.5 jars for a richer flavor)
• 1 package frozen konafah or kataifi dough (17.6 oz, cut into pieces)

For Cooking

• 2 tbsp salted butter
• Salt to taste

For Topping

• 1 chocolate bar (Tony’s milk chocolate or chocolate chips)
• Chopped pistachios (optional)

You may need extra jars of pistachio cream for a richer taste.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use any fresh berries instead of strawberries.
• Swap pistachio cream with almond cream for variety.
• Choose dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Instead of butter, use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

How to Make It

Get ready to assemble your Dubai Strawberry Cups with these easy steps.

Melt the butter

Melt the salted butter in a large skillet or deep pot.

Cook the konafah

Add the chopped konafah dough in two batches and cook on medium/low heat, stirring often for 15-20 minutes until browned. Be careful not to burn it. Transfer to a paper towel-lined dish and sprinkle lightly with salt.

Mix with pistachio cream

Combine the toasted konafah with the pistachio cream in a large bowl. Adjust the amount to your taste; starting with one jar is recommended.

Melt the chocolate

Using a double boiler, melt your chosen chocolate until it’s smooth and ready for drizzling.

Assemble the cups

In a clear cup or bowl, layer your ingredients: start with sliced strawberries, followed by the konafah/pistachio mixture, then drizzle with melted chocolate, and sprinkle with chopped pistachios if desired. Repeat the layering until the cup is filled to your liking.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: No, the layered texture won’t hold up well.
Reheat: Melt chocolate gently in a microwave before serving, about 20 seconds.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the konafah is well toasted for a crispy texture.
• Use clear cups to show off the beautiful layers.
• Allow the chocolate to cool slightly before drizzling for better control.
• Adjust the sweetness of the pistachio cream based on your preference.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled at summer gatherings as a refreshing treat.
• Pair with a cup of mint tea for a delightful afternoon dessert.
• Great for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries.