Pistachio desserts are becoming one of the most talked about food trends in the UK. From supermarket aisles to dessert cafes, everyone is looking for their next fix of this creamy, nutty treat. One place in Bradford has taken the trend to the next level with a fresh twist on a classic dish.
Babtooma, a well-known Middle Eastern restaurant in Bradford, now serves a Dubai-style pistachio kunafa topped with chocolate and strawberries. And it’s gaining attention from locals and visitors alike.
What makes pistachio desserts so popular in the UK right now
Over the past year, pistachio has moved beyond ice cream and entered the spotlight in everything from pastries to coffee. The flavour has caught on through viral food videos and trends from places like Dubai, where desserts are often rich, colourful and designed to impress.
UK supermarkets have followed the hype, releasing limited-run items like pistachio-filled croissants, cakes and chocolate bars. The flavour works well with both creamy and crispy textures, making it perfect for dessert lovers.
Where the Dubai kunafa craze began
Kunafa is a traditional dessert found across the Middle East, usually made with shredded pastry, syrup and cheese or cream. The Dubai-style version has become a sensation because of its rich presentation, often featuring a warm pastry base, soft cream filling, melted chocolate and crushed pistachios.
What makes it stand out is how it’s styled and served. These desserts are often shared on social media thanks to their colours, dripping chocolate and generous toppings. The version at Babtooma keeps that same visual appeal but adds something fresh and local to Bradford’s food scene.
Babtooma’s take on Dubai kunafa in Bradford
At Babtooma, the pistachio kunafa is freshly prepared using traditional shredded pastry. It’s filled with soft pistachio cream and covered in a layer of melted chocolate. The dessert is topped with crushed pistachios and slices of fresh strawberries.
The layers give a mix of textures—crispy pastry, smooth cream, and juicy fruit. It’s made to be shared but can easily be enjoyed alone. Whether you’re into desserts or just curious about the trend, this is something worth trying in Bradford.
Taste and texture that stands out
What makes Babtooma’s kunafa special is its balance. It’s sweet, but not overwhelming. The pistachio gives a smooth flavour while the chocolate brings richness. The strawberries add a sharp contrast that lifts the whole dish.
This combination creates a dessert that feels satisfying and light at the same time. It works well as an end to a meal or as a treat with coffee.
Best ways to enjoy this dessert
If you’re planning a visit, it’s worth pairing the kunafa with Arabic coffee or mint tea. The light bitterness of the drinks cuts through the sweetness and brings out the flavour of the pistachios.
You can enjoy the dessert in the restaurant with friends or order it as a takeaway. Either way, it’s best eaten warm to get the full experience of the soft cream and melted chocolate.
Where to try it in Bradford
Babtooma is located in the heart of Bradford and is known for its authentic Syrian and Middle Eastern dishes. The Dubai-style kunafa fits right into its menu, combining tradition with something exciting and new.
It’s not only a treat for dessert fans but also a good choice for those looking to try something different. Whether you’ve seen it on TikTok or are just curious about the fuss, this kunafa is worth a visit.
You can visit Babtooma today and ask for their Dubai kunafa topped with chocolate and strawberries. Don’t forget to take a photo before digging in.