Hungarian pastry chef hops on the trend wagon and makes viral Dubai chocolate

Improvements were made, and new staff were hired to serve customers with Dubai chocolate at Dávid Jakabfi’s workshop, a Culinary Olympics bronze medallist. The Arabic dessert has surpassed bejgli in Christmas popularity and is now available only by reservation, with deliveries starting in January. An exception is a December charity event offering 2,000 extra pieces, with part of the proceeds supporting children with cancer.

Dethroning bejgli

Dubai chocolate, an innovative treat featuring crispy kadayif noodles, pistachio cream, tahini, and a milk chocolate shell, has taken Hungary by storm. Combining the syrupy, vermicelli-like knafeh dough of Middle Eastern cuisine with chocolate, it has quickly become a sensation. Created by patissier Dávid Jakabfi, a prominent figure in modern confectionery and a Culinary Olympics bronze medallist, the dessert has outpaced the traditional Christmas bejgli in popularity. Using authentic ingredients and rich pistachio filling, it is now a coveted item among customers and premium chocolate shops nationwide.

Photo: JD Confectionery

The high demand requires updates

To meet surging demand, Jakabfi’s Nagykanizsa workshop underwent significant upgrades, including new machinery and a larger workforce, which grew from five to twelve staff working in two shifts. Despite producing 10,000 units, with 5,000 more planned, demand still exceeds capacity. Orders from seven partners and interest from celebrities have placed Dubai chocolate on an exclusive waiting list, with deliveries resuming mid-January. For now, this luxurious confection remains a rare delicacy, celebrated for its unique flavours and exceptional quality.

Photo: JD Confectionery

Dubai chocolate for a good cause

On 21 December, JD Confectionery in Nagykanizsa will host a special charity event, offering 2,000 Dubai chocolates in milk chocolate, white chocolate, and bonbon versions, alongside macarons. Proceeds will support the Together for Children with Cancer Foundation, giving fans of the popular Arabic-inspired dessert a festive opportunity to enjoy it while contributing to a good cause.

Despite its exotic origins, patissier Dávid Jakabfi sees Dubai chocolate as a complement to traditional flavours, much like the French macaron or Italian Panettone. Expanding its appeal, his workshop also creates Dubai chocolate-flavoured cakes, pastries, and soon, ice cream dumplings. Dedicated to sharing his craft, Jakabfi holds courses and workshops to inspire future confectionery professionals in Zala county.

Photo: JD Confectionery

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