Dubai Style Chocolate Strawberry Dessert

Name: Dubai Style Chocolate Strawberry Dessert
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 100ml heavy cream; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 300g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 tablespoon sugar; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh mint leaves; Chopped nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Cakes, Cookies & More

I absolutely adore creating desserts that bring a taste of luxury to my home, and this Dubai Style Chocolate Strawberry Dessert is no exception. With its rich chocolate flavor balanced by the freshness of strawberries, this treat transforms any occasion into a celebration. The combination of silky chocolate and juicy berries evokes memories of delightful evenings spent at upscale restaurants in Dubai. I love how each layer of flavor comes together in this dessert, making it not only a visual masterpiece but also a delicious indulgence that satisfies the sweetest cravings.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:45:39.730Z

When we first tasted this dessert in Dubai, I knew I had to recreate it at home. The way the sweet strawberries played off the richness of the chocolate was simply unforgettable. I experimented with layering the dessert in a glass to showcase its beauty, and I found that letting it chill for a while really enhances the flavors.

One crucial tip I discovered is to use high-quality chocolate. It makes a significant difference in taste and texture, turning this simple dessert into a luxurious experience. The fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor that beautifully complements the chocolate, making it a perfect indulgence for any special occasion.

Why You'll Love This Dessert
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Silky texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

Understanding the Chocolate Layer

The chocolate layer of this dessert is what truly sets it apart, and using high-quality dark chocolate is essential for achieving that rich, indulgent flavor. I recommend choosing chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for a deep, complex taste. When melting the chocolate with cream, keep the heat low and remove it from the heat as soon as it simmers to avoid scorching the chocolate. A gentle whisk will ensure a glossy, lump-free texture that enhances the dessert's luxurious feel.

After mixing in the sugar and vanilla extract, allow the chocolate mixture to cool slightly before layering it with strawberries. If the mixture cools too much and begins to set, you can gently reheat it over low heat while stirring to return it to a pourable consistency. This attention to detail ensures each layer holds its shape without compromising the smooth, velvety texture that is so satisfying with each bite.

Mastering the Strawberry Layer

To achieve the best flavor in your strawberry layer, use fresh strawberries at their peak ripeness. When combining them with sugar and lemon juice, gently tossing the strawberries allows them to absorb the sweetness while the lemon juice enhances their natural tartness. Letting the mixture sit for about 10 minutes is crucial as it draws out the juices, creating a lovely syrup that enhances the overall flavor and texture of the dessert.

For extra complexity, you can experiment with different citrus juices, such as lime or orange, to see how they complement the strawberries. If the strawberries are too firm or not sweet enough, consider adding a touch of honey or a flavored syrup as an alternative sweetener, which would also contribute to the beautiful layering effect in the final presentation.

Finishing Touches and Serving Suggestions

Once your dessert is assembled, chilling it for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall experience. If you find yourself short on time, you can prepare the layers the night before and assemble them prior to serving. This not only saves time but allows the chocolate and strawberry layers to develop richer flavors. For an impressive presentation, consider serving in clear glassware to highlight the beautiful layers.

When it comes to garnishing, fresh mint leaves add a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate and sweet strawberries. Chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds can introduce a delightful crunch, creating a textural balance in each spoonful. These optional garnishes enhance the visual appeal while providing additional flavor nuances, making this dessert not just a treat for the taste buds but a feast for the eyes as well.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Layer

200g dark chocolate, chopped
100ml heavy cream
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Layer

300g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 tablespoon sugar
Juice of 1 lemon

For Garnishing

Fresh mint leaves
Chopped nuts (optional)

Preparation Steps

Instructions

How to Make It

Prepare the Chocolate Layer

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Stir in the sugar and vanilla extract. Set aside to cool slightly.

Make the Strawberry Layer

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat and let sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Layer the Ingredients

In serving glasses or bowls, start with a layer of the chocolate mixture, followed by a layer of the strawberries. Repeat the layers until you reach the top, finishing with a layer of chocolate.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the dessert for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and chopped nuts if desired.

Enjoy Your Dessert!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur to the chocolate mixture.

Make-Ahead Tips

For those who love to plan ahead, both the chocolate layer and the strawberry layer can be prepared in advance. The chocolate layer can be made a day prior; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just ensure to let it reach room temperature before layering it with the strawberries. This way, the layers will remain distinct and beautifully presented when served.

The strawberry mixture can also be prepared ahead of time, but it's best to assemble the dessert close to the serving time to avoid the strawberries becoming too soggy. If you’re making it a day in advance, I recommend using a bit less sugar while preparing the strawberries to offset the moisture they’ll release overnight.

Pairing and Variations

This Dubai Style Chocolate Strawberry Dessert pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, adding a creamy element that complements the rich chocolate and fresh strawberries. For a more decadent twist, try drizzling some chocolate sauce over the top just before serving, which gives an added layer of richness and enhances the overall flavor experience.

For a variation that caters to different dietary preferences, you can substitute dark chocolate with a dairy-free option to ensure it's vegan-friendly. Additionally, swap the heavy cream with coconut cream for a tropical flair, which would harmonize beautifully with the freshness of the strawberries while keeping the dessert luscious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but keep in mind that it will make the dessert sweeter.

→ How long can I store the dessert?

It is best to consume it within 2-3 days when stored in the fridge.

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make it a day in advance to let the flavors meld.

→ What can I use instead of strawberries?

You can substitute with raspberries or blueberries for a different taste.