Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup With Date Syrup

Name: Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup With Date Syrup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 200g cream cheese, softened; 100g powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 200g fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; 50ml date syrup; Chopped nuts (optional) for garnish

Highlighted under: Oven-Made Sweets

I absolutely love indulging in desserts that combine rich flavors and a hint of sweetness. The Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup with Date Syrup has become my go-to recipe whenever I want to impress my guests or treat myself. Each layer, from the creamy chocolate to the fresh strawberries, creates a delightful harmony of tastes. The addition of date syrup not only sweetens the dish but also adds a unique Middle Eastern twist. Join me as I guide you through this delicious creation that's perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-22T07:49:13.819Z

Creating the Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup with Date Syrup is an experience I cherish. The combination of smooth chocolate filling and fresh strawberries is not just visually appealing but incredibly delicious. While preparing, I learned that letting the chocolate mix cool slightly before adding the strawberries allows the flavors to meld beautifully without wilting the fruit.

One specific tip I discovered is to use high-quality dark chocolate, which intensifies the overall flavor profile. This dessert is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. I often garnish it with a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added texture and flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate and date syrup harmonize beautifully.
Fresh strawberries add a refreshing contrast.
Visually stunning and perfect for gatherings.

Understanding Key Ingredients

The dark chocolate serves as the foundation of this dessert, offering a rich, decadent flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the strawberries and date syrup. When melting the chocolate, make sure to use a double boiler to prevent overheating, as high temperatures can cause the chocolate to seize and become unusable. Aim for a smooth, glossy consistency, which will help you achieve even coating in the molds.

Coconut oil in the chocolate mixture not only enhances the texture but also adds a subtle tropical flavor. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider substituting with a vegan dark chocolate, and for the coconut oil, you could use any neutral oil, though the coconut flavor complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Perfectly Assembling the Layers

When filling the chocolate cups with the cream cheese mixture, it’s crucial to let the chocolate layers cool slightly before adding the filling. This ensures the cream cheese doesn’t melt and lose its shape. You can achieve a smooth filling by mixing at a medium speed until it’s fluffy, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients evenly.

For an extra touch, after topping the cups with strawberries and date syrup, you might consider adding a light dusting of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of sea salt. This contrast can elevate the overall flavor profile, adding depth to the sweetness of the strawberries and the richness of the chocolate.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cups

200g dark chocolate
1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the Filling

200g cream cheese, softened
100g powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

200g fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
50ml date syrup
Chopped nuts (optional) for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Chocolate Cups

Melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil over a double boiler until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before pouring it into silicone molds. Swirl the chocolate to coat the sides, then refrigerate until set.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Assemble the Dessert

Once the chocolate cups are set, gently remove them from the molds. Fill each cup with the cream cheese mixture and top with halved strawberries. Drizzle date syrup over the top.

Finishing Touches

If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts over the strawberries for added texture. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a personal touch, experiment with different fruits or toppings to make this dessert uniquely yours.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These chocolate strawberry cups can be made a day in advance, making them a great option for entertaining. Once fully assembled, cover them with plastic wrap and keep them in the refrigerator. They are best consumed within 24-48 hours to ensure the strawberries remain fresh and vibrant.

If you’re looking to store the chocolate cups without the fruit, you can keep the chocolate cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Just fill them with the cream cheese mixture and strawberries right before serving to maintain optimum freshness.

Exploring Variations

To give this dessert a twist, consider experimenting with different fruit toppings. Berries such as raspberries or blueberries can provide a delightful tartness, while sliced bananas can add a creamy texture. You can also mix different nut toppings, such as pistachios, to pair well with the Middle Eastern inspiration of date syrup.

If you're aiming for a healthier version, you might substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor, or even a dairy-free yogurt alternative if needed. This swap will also reduce calories while providing a creamy texture that complements the chocolate and fruit beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can, though the flavor will be sweeter and less intense.

→ How long can I store these cups?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for the filling?

Yes, replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.

→ Can I prepare the chocolate cups in advance?

Definitely! You can prepare the chocolate cups a day ahead and store them in an airtight container.