No-Bake Chocolate Berry Kataifi Trifle with Hazelnut Cream

An elegant, no-bake chocolate, fresh berry, buttery kataifi layered trifle with hazelnut cream and crisp chocolate shards!

This no-bake chocolate berry kataifi trifle with hazelnut cream is the ultimate make-ahead dessert that combines rich Middle Eastern-inspired flavors with a modern presentation. A creamy hazelnut or pistachio filling made with buttery kataifi pastry is layered with juicy fresh berries and finished with a drizzle of melted milk chocolate. Each cup is crowned with homemade chocolate bark — a dramatic, crisp garnish that adds texture and luxury. It’s beautiful enough for a dinner party and easy enough for a weeknight treat.

Dubai Chocolate has gone viral. Everyone loves it and it’s been used to create new desserts, like cheesecake, brownies, and more. So, this trifle is my own spin on a Dubai chocolate dessert. It’s so easy to put together, loaded with rich chocolate, crispy kataifi, creamy kataifi cream, fresh berries, and topped with my stunning Dubai chocolate bark. The combination of flavors and textures is to die for.   

Why is this so luxuriously delicious?

Creamy, crispy, luxurious

Nutty kataifi cream,

Fresh, sweet strawberries,

Smooth, rich, melty milk chocolate,

Crisp, nutty, chocolatey kataifi bark shards.

What do I need for the Kataifi Cream Filling?

Kataifi pastry -chop it and pull it apart into small chunks so it’s not too clumpy. This will allow it to toast evenly and get crunchy.

Unsalted butter -salted American butter is too salty for sweet treats, so stick to unsalted.

Hazelnut or pistachio cream -whichever you like best, or you can use both… I do! If you have a good store-bought version, it will save a little time, but homemade versions are quick to make.

What do I need for the chocolate bark?

Milk chocolate -chopped into chunks to help it melt evenly without burning in the double boiler. If you prefer a less sweet taste, use a good quality semi-sweet chocolate.

White chocolate -chopped or use chips, and if you prefer to melt chocolate in the microwave, do so in 30-second increments to avoid burning.

Kataifi filling -this is what takes chocolate bark to the next level. My recipe makes plenty, so you’ll have enough to dollop over the chocolate for Dubai chocolate bark and to layer into the trifle.

What else do I need for the trifle?

Fresh strawberries -or mixed berries, hulled and sliced, and be sure to use chilled berries to keep the dessert refreshing.

Melted milk chocolate -from bark portion above for drizzling

Toppings -I use extra toasted kataifi for extra buttery crunch and chopped nuts for texture. Both are optional, but you’ve already gone this far, so you might as well go for it!

How do I prepare the kataifi cream filling?

In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped kataifi pastry and toast, stirring often, until lightly golden and crisp (about 4–5 minutes). Let cool slightly, then stir in the hazelnut or pistachio cream until thoroughly combined and smooth. Set aside to cool.

What’s the easiest way to make chocolate bark?

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt the milk chocolate gently in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave in 20-second bursts. Pour onto the parchment and spread into a thin layer using an offset spatula. Melt the white chocolate and drizzle over the milk chocolate. Dot with small spoonfuls of leftover kataifi filling and swirl gently with a toothpick. Let set at room temperature or refrigerate until firm, then break into shards.

How do I assemble No-Bake Chocolate Berry Kataifi Trifle with Hazelnut Cream?

In small cups or dessert bowls, add a layer of the kataifi filling. Top with a layer of fresh berries. Drizzle with melted milk chocolate. Repeat layers if desired. Top each cup with a shards of chocolate bark and an extra sprinkle of berries, toasted kataifi, and/or nuts.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! The kataifi filling can be made 1–2 days ahead and refrigerated, and the bark can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in a cool place. All you’ll have to do is assemble them when you’re ready to serve.

Do you have more kataifi desserts?

Kataifi Ice cream

Dubai Chocolate Bark

Kataifi Portokalopita

Kataifi Galaktoboureko

Greek Kataifi Rolls

Kataifi Nests: The Perfect Greek Make-Ahead Dessert

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