What is Behind the Dubai Chocolate Craze and Why Has It Gone Viral?
If you've been on social media lately, you've probably seen those mesmerizing videos of golden threads of chocolate stretching endlessly. That's Dubai chocolate - the dessert sensation that's taken the internet by storm. But what exactly is this viral treat, and why can't we get enough of it?
The Magic of Dubai Chocolate
Dubai chocolate (also called "stretchy chocolate" or "kunafa chocolate") isn't your ordinary chocolate bar. It's a unique fusion that combines traditional Middle Eastern kunafa techniques with modern chocolate-making. The secret? A blend of milk chocolate and cheese (usually mozzarella or Akkawi) that creates that jaw-dropping stretch when pulled apart.
When served warm, Dubai chocolate reaches its perfect elastic consistency, creating those Instagram-worthy golden threads that seem to go on forever. It's not just delicious - it's theater on a plate.
From Local Secret to Global Sensation
Though the exact creator remains somewhat disputed, most credit Chef Nadia Ali with creating the first commercial version around 2018-2019 in her Dubai bakery. Building on centuries of Middle Eastern dessert traditions, particularly kunafa, she created something genuinely innovative that honored regional heritage while appealing to modern tastes.
The trend truly exploded in late 2022 when TikTok and Instagram videos of the stretchy chocolate began racking up millions of views. What made it irresistible? The combination of visual satisfaction, novelty, and association with luxury Dubai living created the perfect recipe for virality. The ASMR-like quality of the stretching sounds only added to its appeal.
Celebrity Endorsements Fuel the Fire
When Kylie Jenner shared her Dubai chocolate experience during a UAE trip, the trend reached new heights. Other celebrities quickly followed - Gordon Ramsay featured it on his platforms, travel influencer Nas Daily's video about it garnered over 20 million views, and culinary expert Andrew Zimmern praised it as "a perfect fusion of tradition and modern technique."
These high-profile endorsements transformed Dubai chocolate from a passing trend into a legitimate culinary innovation worthy of serious foodie attention.
Finding Your Dubai Chocolate Fix
While Dubai remains the epicenter with spots like Mirzam Chocolate Makers, Al Samadi Sweets, and luxury hotel dessert menus, the viral nature of the dessert has inspired versions worldwide. Specialized Middle Eastern bakeries in major cities and upscale chocolate boutiques have brought the experience to global audiences. Some businesses even ship shelf-stable versions internationally (though they require proper heating to achieve that signature stretch).
Dubai Chocolate Meets Brunch: A Perfect Pairing
Here at Tried & True we've incorporating Dubai chocolate into our pancake specials for pancake fortnight. Our special Dubai chocolate pancake special represents the perfect marriage of these worlds - fluffy pancakes topped with stretchy Dubai chocolate that creates an unforgettable experience.
The warm pancakes maintain the chocolate's ideal stretching temperature, while their mild flavor lets the complex taste of Dubai chocolate shine through. Beyond pancakes, creative chefs are stuffing French toast, creating dipping pots for waffles, and designing elaborate Dubai chocolate fondue stations for brunch buffets.
More Than Just a Passing Trend
Unlike many viral food sensations that prioritize appearance over substance, Dubai chocolate shows staying power. It offers genuine flavor innovation while bridging cultural traditions. Its adaptability to various formats - from high-end restaurant desserts to casual brunch items - demonstrates remarkable versatility.
Experience Our Dubai Chocolate Pancake Special (and others)
There's still time to enjoy our pancake specials including classics like lemon sugar, banana and nutella and our always classic seasonal compote and mascarpone. But while you're here we invite you to experience our signature Dubai chocolate pancake special - a limited-time offering that pairs traditional pancakes with authentic homemade Dubai chocolate for that perfect Instagram moment.
Our version features five fluffy buttermilk pancakes layered with house-made Dubai chocolate, finished with strawberries and powdered sugar. It's the perfect way to experience this viral sensation in a new context.
Get in quick though as this special offering has already generated significant buzz from both Dubai chocolate enthusiasts and curious first-timers eager to see what all the fuss is about!
Whether you're a dedicated foodie or simply enjoy the occasional sweet indulgence, Dubai chocolate offers something truly special - a perfect example of how culinary traditions evolve through innovation and cultural exchange. Have you tried it yet? We'd love to hear your thoughts!
See you soon!
Rob & The Tried&True Team
Keywords: Dubai chocolate, viral food trend, stretchy chocolate, kunafa chocolate, Dubai desserts, viral TikTok food, chocolate trends 2025, Dubai chocolate pancakes, Shrove Tuesday specials, where to find Dubai chocolate, how Dubai chocolate is made, chocolate cheese dessert, Middle Eastern fusion desserts, viral desserts, food influencer trends
Copyright © Tried and True Cafe Putney, All rights reserved.
Comentários