Name: Irresistible Dubai Chocolate Chip Cookies with a Nutty Twist
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 113 g Cold Unsalted Butter (cubed and cold); 70 g Light Brown Sugar; 40 g Superfine Sugar; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 1 large Cold Egg; 180 g Cake Flour (can substitute with all-purpose flour); 1 tsp Baking Powder; 1/4 tsp Salt; 125 g Dark or Milk Chocolate Chips (a mix of both is ideal); 20 g Kataifi Pastry (toasted with butter); 110 g Pistachio Paste; 10 g Tahini; 100 g Chopped Chocolate (half milk, half dark); 2 tbsp Toasted Pistachios (finely chopped)

There’s something enchanting about the fusion of flavors in my kitchen when I whip up these Decadent Dubai Chocolate Chip Cookies. As the buttery dough comes together, the rich aroma of warm vanilla mingles with the sweet scent of melting chocolate and nutty tahini. I stumbled upon the idea of adding crushed pistachios and delicate kataifi while reminiscing about my travels through the Middle East, where each treat tells a story.

These cookies are not just ordinary chocolate chip confections; they bring a delightful twist that elevates them to something extraordinary. The chewy texture, complemented by the unexpected crunch and flavors, makes them perfect for an afternoon tea or dessert after a cozy dinner. Best of all, this easy recipe turns a simple cookie into a cultural experience, inviting everyone to savor the magic of traditional Middle Eastern tastes. Prepare to indulge and impress with a treat that’s as rich in flavor as it is in story.

Why Are Dubai Chocolate Chip Cookies So Special?

Irresistible twist on tradition: These cookies blend classic chocolate chip flavors with unique Middle Eastern elements like tahini and pistachios.
Nutty texture: The crunchy kataifi adds an unexpected bite that keeps you coming back for more.
Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you can impress family and friends without spending all day in the kitchen.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these cookies are sure to delight both kids and adults alike, making them a hit at any event.
Cultural fusion: Celebrate diverse culinary traditions by bringing the taste of the Middle East into your home with every delicious bite.

Dubai Chocolate Chip Cookie Ingredients

Note: Get ready to bring Middle Eastern flavors to your classic cookie!

For the Dough
• Cold Unsalted Butter (113 g) – Adds richness and moisture; be sure it’s cubed and cold for best texture.
• Light Brown Sugar (70 g) – Provides sweetness and contributes to a chewy texture.
• Superfine Sugar (40 g) – Enhances sweetness for a crispy finish in your cookies.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Infuses the dough with warm depth of flavor.
• Cold Egg (1 large) – Binds ingredients together; cold eggs are essential for better results.
• Cake Flour (180 g) – Creates a lighter texture; you can substitute with all-purpose flour for a denser result.
• Baking Powder (1 tsp) – Acts as a leavening agent to make your cookies rise.
• Salt (1/4 tsp) – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Dark or Milk Chocolate Chips (125 g) – Adds delicious sweetness; a mix of both brings complexity to your cookies.

For the Filling
• Kataifi Pastry (20 g, toasted with butter) – This unique ingredient provides a crunchy texture that’s delicious.
• Pistachio Paste (110 g) – The main flavor component of the filling, lending rich nuttiness to every bite.
• Tahini (10 g) – Adds a creamy consistency and nutty essence to the filling.

For Decorating
• Chopped Chocolate (100 g, half milk, half dark) – For drizzling atop your cookies.
• Toasted Pistachios (2 tbsp, finely chopped) – A beautiful and crunchy garnish to elevate your cookie’s look and taste.

How to Make Dubai Chocolate Chip Cookies

Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (320°F) for fan ovens. Take two baking trays and line them with parchment paper, ensuring an easy release for your cookies.
Toast Kataifi: In a frying pan, melt 30g of butter over medium heat. Add 75g of kataifi pastry, toasting it until golden brown, which should take about 10 minutes. Set it aside to cool completely for that perfect crunch.
Mix Dough: In a stand mixer, cream together 113g of cold butter, 70g of brown sugar, 40g of superfine sugar, and 1 tsp of vanilla extract until the mixture is pale and fluffy, about 4 minutes. Then, beat in one cold egg until it’s well incorporated.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 180g of cake flour, 1 tsp of baking powder, and 1/4 tsp of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your creamed butter mix, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in 125g of chocolate chips to keep their shape.
Prepare Fillings: In a small bowl, mix the cooled 20g of toasted kataifi, 110g of pistachio paste, 10g of tahini, and 1/4 tsp of salt until the mixture is beautifully smooth.
Shape Cookies: Divide the dough into equal-sized balls and flatten each slightly. Place 1 tablespoon of the pistachio filling in the center of each dough ball, then shape it back into a round ball, encasing the filling within.
Bake: Place the cookies spaced apart on your lined trays. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-22 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Once out, allow them to cool on the trays for 20 minutes.
Decorate: For the final touch, melt 100g of chopped chocolate and drizzle it generously over the cooled cookies. Take your remaining toasted kataifi and mix it with 100g of pistachio paste for a topping, then sprinkle it over the drizzled chocolate along with finely chopped toasted pistachios. Let it all set at room temperature before serving.

Optional: Pair these cookies with your favorite brew for a delightful afternoon treat.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Dubai Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations

Embrace the joy of customization with these delectable cookie ideas that will elevate your baking experience!

Nut Substitutions: Replace pistachio paste with almond or hazelnut paste for a different nutty flavor, keeping the richness intact.
Chocolate Type: Try using white chocolate chips or caramel-flavored chocolate for a sweet twist that compliments the nuttiness beautifully.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or cinnamon to the dough for a warm, aromatic touch that enhances the cookie’s depth.
Coconut Delight: Fold in shredded coconut for a chewy texture and a hint of tropical flavor combined with Middle Eastern undertones.
Dried Fruits: Incorporate chopped dates or dried figs along with the chocolate for a sweet, chewy surprise that pays homage to Middle Eastern ingredients.
Zesty Kick: A dash of orange or lemon zest in the dough can brighten the flavors, creating a fresh contrast to the rich chocolate and nuts.
Healthier Twist: Opt for coconut or almond flour instead of cake flour for a gluten-free alternative while still keeping it delicious and indulgent.
Extra Crunch: Add crushed salted pretzels into the dough for a delightful sweet-and-salty contrast that will leave everyone craving more.

With these exciting variations, each batch of cookies can tell a new story, inviting you and your loved ones to savor every delicious moment!

Expert Tips for Dubai Chocolate Chip Cookies

Butter Temperature: Always use cold butter to achieve thick, chewy cookies that hold their shape. Room temperature butter can lead to flat cookies.
Kataifi Toasting: Ensure your kataifi is fully toasted for optimal crunch and flavor. Undertoasting may lead to a chewy texture instead of the desired crispness.
Chilling Dough: Refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent excessive spreading and results in perfectly shaped Dubai chocolate chip cookies.
Mixing the Filling: Be careful not to overmix the pistachio paste for the filling. A smooth consistency is ideal, but overworking it can compromise the texture.
Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies during the last few minutes of baking. The edges should be golden, while the centers remain soft for that perfect chewy bite.

What to Serve with Dubai Chocolate Chip Cookies?

These cookies are a warm, inviting treat that can easily be elevated into a full meal experience.

Turkish Coffee: The rich, aromatic coffee complements the nutty flavors and sweetness of the cookies beautifully, creating a cozy experience.
Mint Tea: A refreshing blend of herbs brightens up the cookies, enhancing their Middle Eastern vibe and balancing the richness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside the warm cookies makes for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
Fruits and Nuts Platter: Fresh fruits like figs or dates along with assorted nuts create a beautiful, balanced pairing rich in flavors that echo the cookies.
Cardamom-spiced Chai: The spiced warmth of chai tea pairs perfectly with the cookies, complementing the tahini and pistachio notes in every bite.
Baklava: Serve these cookies with traditional baklava for a sweet indulgence, where the combination of textures will delight any palate.
Fruit Sorbet: A light, fruity sorbet can cleanse the palate between bites of the indulgent cookies, adding a refreshing twist.

Indulging in these cookies alongside any of these suggestions will turn your kitchen into a delightful escape.

How to Store and Freeze Dubai Chocolate Chip Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This will help maintain their chewy texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can store the cookies in the fridge, but they may lose some of their chewy consistency. They’ll last for up to 10 days in an airtight container.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to three months.

Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm, simply microwave them for 10-15 seconds or reheat in an oven at 150°C (300°F) for a few minutes. This brings back their delicious, gooey chocolatey goodness!

Make Ahead Options

These Decadent Dubai Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients and keeping the dough wrapped tightly in the refrigerator. Additionally, the pistachio filling can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge, which helps elevate the flavors. When you’re ready to bake, simply shape the chilled dough around the pre-prepared filling and bake as directed. This ensures that your cookies remain just as delicious, with a beautifully soft texture and a delightful crunch from the added kataifi and pistachios. Enjoy the ease of having these indulgent treats ready to go for any occasion!

Dubai Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

What ingredients should I choose to ensure my cookies are the best?
Absolutely! Use cold unsalted butter and make sure your pistachios are fresh and unsalted to achieve a lush and rich flavor profile. Look for vibrant green pistachios with no dark spots; they should have a pleasant nutty aroma. For the tahini, go with a smooth, high-quality variety to ensure the filling stays creamy and delicious.

How should I store my Dubai chocolate chip cookies?
To maintain their chewy texture, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, but they may lose a bit of their signature softness. Alternatively, you can store them in the freezer for up to three months. Just make sure they are in a zip-top bag or airtight container.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, indeed! Freezing the cookie dough is a wonderful option. Simply scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours), then transfer the balls to a zip-top freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, you can bake them straight from frozen—just add a minute or two to the baking time for perfectly chewy cookies.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! This is a common issue and can usually be fixed. If your cookies spread excessively, it could be because of soft butter. It’s essential to use cold butter and chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. If you still find them spreading, try adding a touch more flour, and ensure your oven is at the right temperature, as an overly hot oven can cause rapid spreading.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! These Dubai chocolate chip cookies contain gluten due to the cake flour, but you can substitute it with a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix. Also, note that tahini is made from sesame, so be cautious if you or your loved ones have a sesame allergy. If you’re making this treat for varied dietary needs, always check on allergies and preferences, and enjoy experimenting with nut-free or dairy-free versions!