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Dubai chocolate cake is a show-stopping dessert that captures the city’s flair for luxury and bold flavor. Imagine sinking your fork into layers of ultra-moist chocolate cake, each bite revealing a surprise of crunchy kataifi pastry and luscious pistachio cream. The aroma of roasted nuts and rich cocoa fills the air, while a silky chocolate ganache ties everything together. This cake isn’t just a treat—it’s an experience, inspired by the viral Dubai chocolate bar and perfect for anyone who loves a decadent twist on classic chocolate cake. [Chocolate cake – Wikipedia]
Why You’ll Love This Dubai Chocolate Cake
- Every bite delivers a contrast of textures—tender cake, crisp pastry, and creamy filling—that keeps you coming back for more.
- The pistachio-kataifi layer adds a Middle Eastern flair, making this cake stand out from ordinary chocolate desserts. [Kataifi – Wikipedia]
- Rich chocolate flavor is elevated by a hint of coffee and the nutty depth of pistachios, creating a sophisticated taste profile. [Pistachio – Wikipedia]
- It’s a true centerpiece dessert, guaranteed to impress at celebrations or special gatherings.
- This recipe is surprisingly adaptable—swap in gluten-free flour or use dairy-free milk for a cake everyone can enjoy.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Dessert |
| Cuisine: | Middle Eastern-Inspired |
| Prep Time: | 25 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 55 minutes |
| Dietary: | Vegetarian |
| Serves: | 12 |
| Best Served: | Room Temperature or Slightly Warm |
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping the cake tender.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – Delivers deep chocolate flavor and antioxidants.
- Granulated sugar & brown sugar – A blend for balanced sweetness and moisture.
- Baking powder & baking soda – Ensures a lofty, light crumb.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- Large egg – Binds the batter and adds richness.
- Milk – Keeps the cake moist; use dairy or non-dairy as preferred.
- Vegetable oil – Makes the crumb extra soft.
- Hot coffee – Intensifies the chocolate notes without leaving a coffee taste.
- Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and complexity.
- Kataifi pastry (shredded phyllo) – Brings a signature crunch and Middle Eastern authenticity. [Kataifi – Wikipedia]
- Butter – Toasts the kataifi for a golden, nutty flavor.
- Pistachio cream – The star of the filling, adding creamy, nutty richness.
- Milk or semi-sweet chocolate bar – For the ganache layer, providing a glossy, indulgent finish. [Ganache – Wikipedia]
- Heavy cream – Makes the ganache smooth and spreadable.
Dubai Chocolate Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugars, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add egg, milk, oil, vanilla, and hot coffee, mixing until just combined.
- Pour batter into a greased 8- or 9-inch cake pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes. Cool completely.
- In a skillet, melt butter and toast chopped kataifi pastry until golden. Let cool.
- Mix pistachio cream with toasted kataifi until well combined.
- Heat chopped chocolate and cream until melted. Stir until smooth and let cool to thicken.
- Slice cake into two layers. Spread pistachio filling on the bottom layer, then top with the second layer.
- Spread ganache over the cake. Garnish with chopped pistachios or drizzle of pistachio cream.
Notes
How to Make the Dubai Chocolate Cake
This Dubai chocolate cake comes together in layers, each one building flavor and texture for a truly memorable dessert. [Taste of Home: Dubai Chocolate Cake]
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugars, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the egg, milk, oil, vanilla, and hot coffee, whisking until just combined for a smooth, pourable batter.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a greased 8- or 9-inch cake pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Step 3: Toast the Kataifi Pastry
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped kataifi pastry and toast, stirring, until golden and crisp. Set aside to cool.
Step 4: Make the Pistachio Filling
In a bowl, combine pistachio cream with the cooled kataifi pastry, mixing until evenly blended and creamy.
Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
Gently heat chopped chocolate and heavy cream together until melted and smooth. Let cool slightly to thicken to a spreadable consistency. [Ganache – Wikipedia]
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Slice the cooled cake horizontally into two layers. Spread the pistachio-kataifi filling generously over the bottom layer, then place the second layer on top.
Step 7: Frost and Garnish
Spread the chocolate ganache over the top and sides of the cake. Garnish with extra crushed pistachios or a drizzle of pistachio cream if desired.
Pro Tips for Making the Dubai Chocolate Cake
- Let all ingredients come to room temperature for a smoother batter and even baking.
- Don’t overmix the cake batter—stop as soon as everything is incorporated for a tender crumb.
- Use freshly toasted kataifi for maximum crunch in the filling.
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate bars.
- Chill the cake before slicing for cleaner layers and easier serving.
How to Serve Dubai chocolate cake
This cake shines at celebrations, but it’s just as delightful as an everyday treat. Here are creative ways to enjoy it:
- With a scoop of pistachio or vanilla ice cream
- Alongside a strong espresso or Turkish coffee
- As a showpiece at birthdays or festive gatherings
- Cut into mini squares for party platters
- Paired with fresh berries for a burst of color
- Drizzled with extra melted chocolate
- With a dusting of powdered sugar and chopped pistachios
- Accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream
- Layered in a trifle with more pistachio cream
- As a luxurious finish to a Middle Eastern-inspired meal
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Store cake slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days—let come to room temp before serving.
• Keep the cake covered to prevent it from drying out.
• Place parchment between slices if stacking to avoid sticking.
Freezing
• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best texture.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
• For whole cakes, freeze unfrosted and add ganache after thawing for a just-made look.
Reheating
• Let refrigerated cake sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
• Warm slices gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a soft, fudgy texture.
• Avoid overheating to prevent the ganache from melting.
• For extra indulgence, serve slightly warm with a scoop of ice cream.
FAQs
What are the health benefits of chocolate and pistachios?
Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and may support heart health, while pistachios provide healthy fats, protein, and vitamins for energy and wellness. Together, they offer a dessert that’s both satisfying and nourishing in moderation.
Can I substitute kataifi pastry?
If kataifi isn’t available, try using finely shredded phyllo dough or even crushed cornflakes for a similar crunch. The texture will change slightly, but the cake will still be delicious. [Kataifi – Wikipedia]
How can I add flavor without extra calories?
Boost flavor by adding a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon to the batter, or finish with a sprinkle of orange zest. These additions add depth without extra sugar or fat.
Can I meal prep Dubai chocolate cake?
Absolutely! Bake the cake and prepare the filling up to two days ahead. Assemble and frost the day you plan to serve for the freshest taste and best texture. [Taste of Home: Dubai Chocolate Cake]
Final Thoughts
Let Dubai chocolate cake transport you to a world of bold flavor and festive spirit, right from your kitchen. Every forkful is a celebration of texture and taste—perfect for sharing with friends or savoring solo. Don’t be surprised if this cake becomes your new signature dessert. Enjoy the creative process, and let each layer remind you that healthy, indulgent treats are always within reach. Happy baking!
