A viral dessert sensation from Dubai has ignited a worldwide frenzy, transforming from a niche luxury into a mainstream obsession. Characterized by its signature crisp chocolate shell and velvety pistachio-kunafa core, this Middle Eastern-inspired delight has spawned countless imitations and creative spin-offs across major food brands.
- Shake Shack's Pistachio Shake Sensation
In June, Shake Shack debuted a limited-edition Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Shake nationwide. Blending pistachio frozen custard with a dark chocolate shell, it's garnished with toasted kataifi (shredded phyllo) and chopped pistachios. Priced from $9.49, the shake will be available at select locations through August, though daily quantities are limited.
- Costco's Ice Cream Bar Ambiguity
California-based After Hours Ice Cream partnered with Costco earlier this summer to launch Dubai chocolate ice cream bars. However, the product's current status remains unclear—it vanished from Costco's online catalog by July 10, with neither company clarifying its availability.
- Crave Cookies' Double Tribute
Crave Cookies unveiled two Dubai-inspired creations: a kunafa-stuffed chocolate cookie and a strawberry cup. The cookie features pistachio filling layered with milk chocolate icing and kataifi, available until July 10. Their strawberry cup combines pistachio cream, chocolate ganache, fresh strawberries, and crushed cookies, topped with kataifi.
- Starbucks' DIY Secret Menu Sip
While not an official offering, Starbucks crafted a customizable Dubai-inspired beverage. Baristas recommend ordering a Grande Iced Matcha Latte with two pistachio sauce pumps and chocolate cream cold foam to mimic the trend's lush, nutty profile.
- Origins of the Viral Icon
The original "Can't Get Knafeh Of It" bar, crafted by Dubai's FIX Dessert Chocolatier, sparked the phenomenon in 2022. Founder Sarah Hamouda created it to satisfy pregnancy cravings for knafeh—a syrup-drenched pastry with cheese and pistachio. After a TikTok review surpassed 131 million views in 2023, demand exploded. Priced at $20 per bar (or $120 for six), its scarcity fueled a wave of dupes from brands like Bolci ($19) and The Nuts Factory ($50 for two).
From high-end chocolatiers to fast-casual giants, the Dubai chocolate craze proves cultural flavors can redefine global palates. As summer heats up, this trend shows no signs of melting away.