Hi, I’m Lina. As a busy mom, I rely on recipes that feel comforting without needing hours in the kitchen. This dish is one of my easy weeknight favorites, simple, warm, and full of flavor. If you love homey food that brings everyone to the table, this recipe will be perfect for you.
A Taste of Dubai, No Oven Needed
When I first tried No-Bake Dubai Chocolate Balls, I was at a friend’s home in Jumeirah where the kitchen smelled of cocoa and dates. The soft sweetness of the dates mixed with rich chocolate reminded me how powerful simple ingredients can be. These bite-sized desserts combine the creamy texture of crushed biscuits with the bold flavor of cocoa and a hint of cardamom, a spice that gives them their signature Middle Eastern touch.
The best part? They’re completely no-bake. You just blend, roll, chill, and serve. Perfect for busy evenings, family gatherings, or even as quick Eid treats that impress with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Balls
There’s something magical about desserts that don’t ask for an oven. These No-Bake Dubai Chocolate Balls are:
- Quick to make: Just 10 minutes and a few pantry staples.
- Wholesome yet indulgent: Dates add natural sweetness, while cocoa gives a rich flavor.
- Kid-friendly: Little hands love rolling these soft treats!
- Perfect for gifting: Pack them in a box lined with parchment and tie with a gold ribbon for a sweet homemade present.
For more easy treats, try these SoolFood favorites:
- Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies for another quick chocolate fix.
- Easy Halloween Party Treats if you love playful desserts.
- The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies in Small Batches when you’re baking just for two.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups crushed Marie or digestive biscuits
- 1 cup pitted dates, softened
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons condensed milk (or coconut milk for vegan version)
- 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
- ½ teaspoon cardamom powder
- A pinch of salt
- Shredded coconut or crushed pistachios for rolling
Instructions
- In a food processor, blend the softened dates until smooth.
- Add the crushed biscuits, cocoa powder, cardamom, and salt. Blend again until the texture resembles fine crumbs.
- Pour in melted butter and condensed milk. Pulse until a soft dough forms.
- Scoop small portions and roll into bite-sized balls.
- Coat each one in shredded coconut or crushed pistachios for that authentic Dubai flair.
- Chill for at least 10 minutes, or enjoy them right away if you can’t resist!
Lina’s Kitchen Tips
- Use Medjool dates for natural sweetness and a smooth texture.
- Add a teaspoon of instant coffee if you love mocha flavor.
- Make ahead: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
- For gifting: Dust with cocoa powder and place in mini cupcake liners for a café-style presentation.
These little treats are pure comfort, soft, chocolatey, and gently spiced. Perfect with a cup of Arabic coffee or warm milk before bed. Every time I make them, my kids sneak a few before they’re even chilled, and honestly, I can’t blame them.
Healthier Twist
If you’re watching your sugar intake, swap condensed milk for almond butter and drizzle a little honey or maple syrup. You’ll still get that creamy, rich texture without added sugar. These No-Bake Dubai Chocolate Balls also make great energy bites for mid-afternoon slumps or post-gym snacks, just refrigerate and grab one whenever you need a pick-me-up.
Print
No-Bake Dubai Chocolate Balls: A Sweet Bite of Comfort
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 balls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft, cocoa-rich no-bake chocolate balls made with dates, biscuits, and a hint of cardamom. A 10-minute Middle Eastern dessert that’s both indulgent and easy.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups crushed Marie or digestive biscuits
1 cup pitted dates, softened
3 tablespoons cocoa powder
2 tablespoons condensed milk or coconut milk
2 tablespoons butter or ghee
½ teaspoon cardamom powder
Pinch of salt
Shredded coconut or crushed pistachios for rolling
Instructions
1. Blend dates until smooth.
2. Add biscuits, cocoa, cardamom, and salt; blend again.
3. Mix in butter and condensed milk; form a soft dough.
4. Roll into small balls and coat with coconut or pistachios.
5. Chill for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Store in an airtight container for up to five days.
Add honey or date syrup before serving for extra flavor.
Use almond butter for a refined sugar–free option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern