Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Dessert

Name: Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Dessert
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, finely chopped; 200ml heavy cream; 150g crushed digestive biscuits; 100g unsalted butter, melted; 50g chopped nuts (optional); 250g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar

Highlighted under: Golden Cooking

I absolutely love making this Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Dessert for special occasions. It combines rich chocolate ganache, fresh strawberries, and a crunchy layer that adds texture to every bite. Preparing this dessert is a delightful experience; I can almost taste the elegance in every layer. Each mouthful is a wonderful harmony of flavors that my family and friends can't resist. Whether it's a birthday or a holiday gathering, this dessert has become my go-to treat that leaves everyone wanting more.

Created by

Camille Norwood

Last updated on 2026-02-16T12:09:37.213Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of this Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Dessert, I knew it would be a hit. I experimented with various combinations before finalizing the recipe. The process of layering the chocolate ganache with strawberries created a delightful surprise in texture and flavor that I couldn’t resist. I recommend using high-quality chocolate to truly elevate the taste.

Another great tip I discovered is to chill the layers separately before assembling. This ensures that each part holds its shape beautifully when served. It was fun to watch my family’s eyes light up as they took their first bites, making all the effort worthwhile!

Why You'll Love This Dessert
Decadent layers of chocolate and strawberries create a visual masterpiece.
The crunchiness adds an unexpected twist that enhances the overall experience.
Perfect for impressing guests at any gathering.

Understanding Chocolate Ganache

Chocolate ganache is the heart of this dessert, providing a rich, velvety texture that perfectly complements the fresh strawberries. The quality of chocolate is crucial; I recommend using at least 60% cocoa content for a deep, satisfying flavor. When heating the cream, take care not to let it boil vigorously. Just bring it to a gentle simmer to avoid scalding, which can alter the final texture of your ganache. A proper ganache should be thick yet pourable, glossy, and smooth.

Once prepared, let the ganache cool slightly before pouring it over the layers, as this will help maintain distinct layers instead of blending together. If the ganache begins to thicken too much, simply return it to low heat while stirring gently until the desired consistency is restored. This small step is vital to ensure the ganache flows nicely over the crunchy base and strawberries without losing structural integrity.

Crafting the Crunch Layer

The crunch layer adds a delightful textural contrast to the dessert. Crushed digestive biscuits provide a buttery, rich flavor. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute these with gluten-free biscuits or even crushed nuts for an alternative crunch. Be sure to mix the crushed biscuits with melted butter thoroughly; this will ensure every piece is coated, leading to a firmer base that holds together without crumbling during slicing.

When pressing the mixture into the springform pan, use the bottom of a measuring cup or a flat spatula to compact it evenly. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch—if it's too loose, the layer might fall apart. Allow the crunch layer to set for a few minutes before adding the ganache, giving the butter a chance to solidify, creating a sturdier foundation for the dessert.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before starting:

For the Chocolate Ganache

200g dark chocolate, finely chopped
200ml heavy cream

For the Crunch Layer

150g crushed digestive biscuits
100g unsalted butter, melted
50g chopped nuts (optional)

For the Strawberry Layer

250g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons sugar

Make sure you have everything handy for an efficient cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your dessert:

Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until just boiling. Pour it over the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly.

Make the Crunch Layer

In a bowl, mix together the crushed digestive biscuits and melted butter. Add the chopped nuts if using. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a prepared springform pan.

Prepare the Strawberry Layer

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with sugar and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Assemble the Dessert

Spread half of the chocolate ganache over the crunch layer, followed by a layer of the macerated strawberries. Pour the remaining ganache on top and smooth it out.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours before serving. Remove from the pan and slice into wedges to serve.

Enjoy your delightful Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Dessert!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe strawberries and let them sit with sugar for a few moments to enhance their natural sweetness.

Making Ahead and Storage

This dessert is excellent for making ahead of time. I often prepare it a day before an event, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as it chills in the refrigerator. Just keep it covered with plastic wrap to prevent absorbing any odors from the fridge. You can store it for up to three days without losing quality, making it a practical option for busy occasions.

For serving, slice the dessert into wedges using a sharp knife. To keep the cuts clean, dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry before cutting into the chilled layers. This method ensures a clean cut through the chocolate and strawberries, presenting a beautiful cross-section to your guests.

Variations and Personal Touches

While the classic version combines chocolate and strawberries, feel free to experiment with different fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile. Seasonal fruits can add a refreshing twist that brightens the rich chocolate. You might also consider infusing the chocolate ganache with orange zest or a splash of vanilla extract for an aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with the acidity of the berries.

If you're looking for an even richer texture, consider adding a layer of whipped cream or a mascarpone layer between the strawberries and ganache. This addition enhances the creaminess and provides another textural element, elevating your dessert to an even more luxurious experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dessert a day in advance. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute if I don't have digestive biscuits?

Graham crackers work well as a substitute for digestive biscuits.

→ Is it possible to use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are best, you can use thawed frozen strawberries; just make sure to drain excess moisture.

→ Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free biscuits to make the crunch layer.