Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Sensation

Name: Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Sensation
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 100g milk chocolate, chopped; 100ml heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 250g fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Artisan Dessert Bakes

I absolutely love treating myself to something decadent and delightful, and this Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Sensation ticks all those boxes. The combination of rich, velvety chocolate and juicy strawberries creates an indulgent dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a dinner party or a casual night in, this treat never fails to impress. It's an easy recipe that elevates the simplest ingredients into a stunning dessert, and once you make it, you'll be dreaming about it long after it's gone.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-25T18:25:27.698Z

When I first tried a dessert like this in Dubai, I was blown away by how beautifully the flavors complemented each other. The silky chocolate blended so perfectly with the freshness of ripe strawberries, and it sparked an idea to recreate it at home. I've tweaked the recipe to make it just right, ensuring that each bite delivers an explosion of flavor paired with stunning visuals.

One of my favorite tips I learned along the way is to dip the strawberries in a mix of dark and milk chocolate. It creates a richer taste and adds depth that sets this dessert apart, making it a perfect indulgence for celebrations!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent layers of chocolate create an irresistible treat
Fresh strawberries add a delightful fruity contrast
Quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect last-minute dessert

The Importance of Quality Chocolate

When making the chocolate layer of the Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Sensation, the quality of your chocolate is crucial. Choose a dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for a rich, intense flavor that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries. Milk chocolate should be of good quality too, as it adds a creamy texture to the mix. Avoid using baking chocolate or chocolate chips, as they often contain stabilizers that can affect the smoothness of your final dessert.

Melting chocolate requires attention to heat levels. Be sure to remove the saucepan from the heat just before the cream reaches a full boil, as overheating can cause the chocolate to seize or become gritty. Stirring until the mixture is completely glossy is key—this ensures a silky texture that will contrast wonderfully with the fresh strawberries.

Perfecting Your Strawberry Layer

The maceration step for the strawberries not only enhances their natural sweetness but also introduces a lovely juiciness that complements the rich chocolate. Letting the strawberries sit with sugar and lemon juice for at least 10 minutes allows them to release their juices, which creates a syrupy layer. If you prefer a sweeter fruit layer, feel free to adjust the sugar amount. Alternatively, you can substitute the lemon juice with balsamic vinegar for a unique tang that pairs beautifully with both chocolate and strawberries.

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or a splash of vanilla extract to the macerated strawberries. This can elevate their taste, making them more vibrant in the layers of your dessert. When assembling, opt for transparent serving glasses to showcase the beautiful contrast between the dark chocolate and the bright strawberries.

Serving and Storage Tips

Once assembled, the Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Sensation can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings. You can prepare it up to two hours in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Just make sure to cover the desserts with plastic wrap or a sealed lid to prevent them from absorbing any other odors from the fridge.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. The chocolate layer might thicken slightly, but it will still be delicious. Just give it a gentle stir before serving, and if you like, add a fresh strawberry on top for a pop of color. Feel free to experiment with different berries, like blueberries or raspberries, for a delightful variation on this classic dessert!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Layer

200g dark chocolate, chopped
100g milk chocolate, chopped
100ml heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Layer

250g fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Make sure your strawberries are ripe for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Chocolate

In a saucepan, heat the cream over medium heat until just boiling. Remove from heat and add in the chopped dark and milk chocolate. Stir until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well.

Prep the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the halved strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat and let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.

Assemble the Dessert

In serving glasses, layer the chocolate mixture at the bottom, followed by the macerated strawberries. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the assembled desserts for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Sensation chilled!

Feel free to garnish with whipped cream or more fresh strawberries!

Pro Tips

For added flair, dust the top with cocoa powder or decorate with chocolate shavings before serving.

Variations on the Classic

This recipe can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and choose dairy-free chocolate. You’ll still achieve a creamy texture with a hint of tropical flavor that adds a unique twist to this dessert. Additionally, consider replacing the strawberries with seasonal fruits such as peaches or cherries for a fresh take on the original recipe.

For those looking to add a bit of crunch, incorporate crushed nuts or a layer of graham cracker crumbs between the chocolate and strawberry layers. This not only adds texture but also introduces a delightful contrast to the creamy chocolate and soft fruit, making your dessert even more enticing.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate seizes while melting, it can often be salvaged by adding a teaspoon of warm water or cream gradually while stirring until smooth. Remember, the key is to avoid high temperatures when heating the cream to prevent this issue. Always use a heavy-bottomed pan to maintain even heat and reduce the risk of burning.

When assembling the layers, if the strawberries don’t release enough juice, it may result in a dry texture. To fix this, try increasing the sugar or letting them macerate longer. Conversely, if too much liquid forms, simply drain excess before layering to avoid a watery dessert.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe for larger gatherings is straightforward. Just multiply the ingredients according to the number of servings you need. If making a larger batch, I recommend using a big mixing bowl for the chocolate layer and a large dish for assembling the dessert, rather than individual glasses. This allows for quicker assembly, and you can portion it out later.

For a more elegant presentation, consider using a trifle dish for a spectacular visual effect. Layer the chocolate and strawberries as you would in individual glasses. When serving, this approach not only looks beautiful but also makes it easier for everyone to enjoy a portion without the fuss of individual servings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor, but you can use thawed frozen strawberries in a pinch.

→ How long can I store the dessert?

The dessert can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, but it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I use white chocolate?

Yes! You can substitute some or all of the chocolate with white chocolate for a different taste.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.