Dubai Style Chocolate Strawberry Dessert

Name: Dubai Style Chocolate Strawberry Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 100g cream cheese, softened; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 200g fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; Mint leaves (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Collection

I absolutely love indulging in desserts that combine rich chocolate with the freshness of strawberries. This Dubai Style Chocolate Strawberry Dessert hits all the right notes for me, with its creamy chocolate layers and sweet, juicy strawberries that make each bite a delightful experience. It’s a favorite for gatherings, as it pairs well with various beverages and is visually stunning. In just a few simple steps, I can create an impressive dessert that feels luxurious and indulgent, perfect for any occasion or just a treat for myself.

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2026-02-10T16:25:36.449Z

When I first tasted a Dubai Style Chocolate Strawberry Dessert, I was blown away by how beautifully the flavors complemented each other. The rich chocolate layers create a decadent backdrop for the bright strawberries, making it a delightful treat. I love experimenting with different chocolates to find the perfect balance of sweetness and richness, and using fresh strawberries enhances the dessert significantly.

One tip I've learned from making this dessert is to choose high-quality chocolate, as it greatly impacts the flavor. Additionally, letting the dessert chill in the refrigerator for an hour allows the flavors to meld, making each bite even more delicious. Trust me, your guests will be raving about this dessert!

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

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dessert is the dark chocolate, which brings depth and richness. Using high-quality chocolate with at least 70% cocoa will enhance the flavor profile, making it more intense. I recommend chopping the chocolate into small, even pieces to ensure it melts uniformly without overheating, which can lead to a grainy texture instead of a smooth finish.

Cream cheese plays a crucial role by adding a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the chocolate and strawberries. It’s important that the cream cheese is softened to room temperature; this allows it to blend seamlessly into the heavy cream, contributing to that luxuriously creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, mascarpone cheese can also work well in this recipe.

Perfecting the Layers

Layering the dessert correctly elevates both its appearance and taste. I find using clear glasses allows the beautiful chocolate and strawberry layers to be seen, making it visually appealing. When layering, start with the chocolate mixture first; it should be poured in a thick base to support the strawberries. Try to keep the chocolate layer on the bottom thick — about one-third of the total height — to provide stability as you build upwards.

A common challenge when assembling desserts is ensuring even layering without mixing the ingredients. Use the back of a spoon when adding the strawberries to create a distinct layer and prevent them from sinking into the chocolate. It helps to leave a bit of space at the top of the glass, making room for the berries to extend slightly over the chocolate to create a beautiful finish.

Ingredients

Dessert Layers

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

Topping

200g fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
Mint leaves (for garnish)

Make sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best results!

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and melt it over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Mix the Filling

In another bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Combine Chocolate and Cream Mixture

Fold the melted chocolate into the cream mixture until fully combined, ensuring no streaks remain.

Assemble the Dessert

In individual serving glasses, layer the chocolate mixture and fresh strawberries. Start with a layer of chocolate, followed by strawberries, and repeat until the glasses are filled.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the dessert for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with mint leaves for a fresh touch.

Enjoy this decadent dessert chilled and watch it disappear!

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, consider adding a dash of orange zest to the chocolate mixture for added flavor!

Storage Tips

This dessert can be made ahead of time, which makes it a fantastic choice for gatherings. After assembling it, cover the individual glasses with plastic wrap to prevent the strawberries from drying out. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it is best enjoyed within the first 24 hours to maintain freshness and texture. Just remember to garnish with mint leaves just before serving for a vibrant pop of color.

If you want to prepare components in advance, you can melt the chocolate and mix the cream mixture the day before, then assemble it on the day of your event. This approach saves time without sacrificing quality, ensuring that you can enjoy the gathering without spending too long in the kitchen.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this dessert with beverages enhances the overall experience; a rich red wine or a light sparkling wine complements the sweet and tart flavors beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, serve it with sparkling water infused with lemon or mint to refresh the palate between bites.

Consider adding a touch of whimsy with some chocolate shavings on top, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce to add an extra layer of indulgence. For a twist, you can try substituting strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries, which will bring a different flavor profile yet maintain the dessert's sophistication.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but it may alter the sweetness. Adjust the sugar accordingly.

→ How long can I store this dessert?

It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and let it chill overnight.

→ Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute for a similar texture.