Before December 2023, the phrase “Dubai chocolate” probably wouldn’t have meant much beyond chocolate eaten in Dubai. But today, it’s instantly recognizable as a rich, indulgent treat filled with a creamy, green-hued blend of pistachio and knafeh.

Since content creator Maria Vehera posted her now-iconic TikTok showcasing a Dubai chocolate purchase from Fix Dessert Chocolatier, the sweet has been everywhere. “When I first started Fix Dessert Chocolatier, I never imagined our chocolate bars would become so popular,” founder Sarah Hamouda tells People. “It’s been overwhelming in the best possible way.” Today, Vehera’s video has racked up more than 7 million likes at the time of writing, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down.

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Fix Dessert Chocolatier’s creation has sparked a wave of imitators. Rawmantic Chocolate, for example, makes a plant-based version of the popular bar. A quick search on Amazon pulls up Dubai chocolate-inspired mochi, protein powders, pastries, energy bars, and even Nutella-style spreads. It’s official: Dubai chocolate is here to stay.

The key to Dubai chocolate’s magic? Pistachio.

Without pistachio, Dubai chocolate wouldn’t be what it is. The nut is subtly sweet, slightly earthy, rich in umami, and incredibly versatile. It’s delicious with chocolate, as Dubai chocolate has made clear time and time again, but the possibilities go far beyond that.

RELATED: The Pistachio Era Is Here: Why Everyone’s Obsessed

​​We’ve found that when it comes to this vibrant green nut, there are few limits. It pairs beautifully with garlic in pasta or bakes perfectly into herb-filled falafel. But below, we’re focusing on the sweet side: our favorite indulgent pistachio combinations that bring all the richness of Dubai chocolate into every bite.

The best pistachio flavor pairings, from rose to salted caramel and beyond

For even more pistachio, give these delicious flavor pairings a go. 

Sara Kidd

1 Pistachio and rose

The bright, fragrant nature of rose pairs beautifully with pistachio’s mild, slightly sweet flavor. Together, they strike a balance that feels both delicate and indulgent. They’re also visually striking: the soft green of pistachio and the blush pink of rose make for an eye-catching combination. This isn’t a new pairing, either. It’s a classic duo that features in many traditional Middle Eastern desserts, including baklava, Turkish delight, and halva.
Try it in a recipe: Vegan Persian Pistachio-Rose Love Cake

Kristin Teig

2 Pistachio and matcha

Together, pistachio and matcha create a layer of flavors that are smooth, earthy, balanced, and rich in umami. Visually, the combination is just as appealing, too. Matcha’s vibrant green tone enhances pistachio’s softer, golden-green hue, resulting in an Insta-worthy presentation.
Try it in a recipe: This Iced Pistachio Matcha Has A Creamy Vegan Cheesecake Surprise

Nourishing Amy

3Pistachio, white chocolate, and strawberries

Together, these three ingredients create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures, whether they’re combined in cookies, brownies, cakes, or other sweet treats. White chocolate brings the creamy indulgence, strawberries are juicy and tart, and pistachios are nutty and earthy.
Try it in a recipe: White Chocolate Strawberry Pistachio Vegan Brownies

Munching With Mariyah

4 Pistachio and dark chocolate

Dubai chocolate is usually made with milk chocolate, but rich, dark, indulgent chocolate might actually complement the nutty flavors of pistachio even better. Bold, intense, and complex, dark chocolate adds a depth that perfectly balances pistachio’s earthiness. Together, they create a classic duo that offers both indulgence and sophistication.
Try it in a recipe: Vegan Dark Chocolate Chunk Pistachio Cookies

Nourishing Amy

5 Pistachio and salted caramel

Salted caramel is a beloved flavor known for its buttery, sweet, and salty harmony. When paired with pistachio’s nutty, earthy profile, these flavors elevate each other, creating an even richer and more memorable taste experience.
Try it in a recipe: Chocolate Salted Caramel Pistachio Date Bark

We Are So Vegan

6 Pistachio, cardamom, and lemon

This flavor trio is vibrant and aromatic. The nutty, earthy richness of pistachio blends beautifully with the warm, spicy notes of cardamom, while lemon adds a bright, zesty freshness that lifts the entire mix.
Try it in a recipe: Pistachio + Cardamom Lemon Drizzle Cake

School Night Vegan

7 Pistachio and orange

Pistachio and orange make another beautifully balanced pairing. Much like lemon, the nutty, earthy flavor of pistachio perfectly complements the bright, sweet, and zesty freshness of orange. Together, they create a vibrant combination that is both refreshing and indulgent.
Try it in a recipe: Vegan Orange Rolls with Pistachio