Chocolate Kunafa Cigars

# Chocolate Kunafa Cigars These chocolate kunafa cigars are the kind of dessert that disappears from the plate before you have time to Instagram them. Crispy kunafa pastry rolled around a decadent chocolate-pistachio cream filling, baked until golden, and finished with a chocolate drizzle and pistachio dust. They are essentially the cigar-shaped cousin of the famous Dubai chocolate bar — same flavor DNA (kunafa + pistachio cream + chocolate), but in a portable, dippable, snackable format. Make a batch of 16 and watch them vanish. ## Chef's Notes - The key to great kunafa cigars is keeping the sheets moist while you work. Cover unused sheets with a damp towel to prevent drying. - Roll them tightly but not too tight — the filling needs a little room to expand as it heats. - For the chocolate-pistachio filling, mix the chocolate while warm so it stays pliable. If it seizes, add a teaspoon of warm cream and stir vigorously. - Brush each cigar with ghee before AND after rolling for maximum crispiness. ## Variation Ideas - **Nutella Version:** Replace the chocolate-pistachio cream with Nutella mixed with crushed pistachios. - **White Chocolate Cardamom:** Use white chocolate in the filling and add 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom. - **Mini Size:** Cut the kunafa sheets in half for bite-sized cigars perfect for dessert platters. - **Deep Fried:** Skip the oven and deep fry at 175°C for 3-4 minutes for an extra crispy shell. ## Storage Tips - Store baked cigars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. - Reheat in a 165°C oven for 5 minutes to restore crispiness. - Unbaked cigars can be frozen for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 3-4 extra minutes to the cook time. ## Related Recipes If you love these cigars, try our [Pistachio Kunafa Rolls](/recipes/pistachio-kunafa-rolls) for a similar format with a different flavor profile, or our [Mini Kunafa Nests with Chocolate](/recipes/mini-kunafa-nests-with-chocolate) for another party-friendly kunafa treat. For the classic bar form, see our [Classic Dubai Chocolate Bar](/recipes/classic-dubai-chocolate-bar).