Dubai Chocolate Cake

If you’re looking for a decadent dessert that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Dubai, then this Dubai Chocolate Cake is your answer! Rich, moist, and absolutely indulgent, this cake is layered with a buttery kataifi-pistachio filling and topped with silky ganache. Trust me, it’s the perfect treat for family gatherings or cozy nights at home when you just want something sweet to brighten your day.

What makes this cake truly special is its ability to impress without overwhelming you in the kitchen. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, you’ll find joy in creating this luxurious dessert that will surely become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Dubai Chocolate Cake comes together quickly with simple steps, making it perfect for any skill level.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the rich chocolate flavor paired with the unique pistachio filling. It’s a hit at any gathering!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare this cake in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully before serving.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm for a gooey experience or chill it for a firmer slice—either way, it’s delicious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that making Dubai Chocolate Cake requires only simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Gather these items, and let’s get started on your sweet masterpiece!

For the Cake

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch processed)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup hot coffee

For the Filling and Ganache

• 2 cups shredded phyllo dough (kataifi), finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup pistachio cream
• 4 oz milk or semi-sweet chocolate bar
• ½ cup heavy cream or table cream

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to play around with different flavors and textures to make it your own.

• Add Some Zest: Incorporate orange zest into the batter for a refreshing citrus twist!
• Nuts Galore: Swap out pistachios for almonds or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
• Extra Decadence: Top with whipped coconut cream instead of ganache for a lighter option.
• Fruit Fusion: Layer some fresh berries between the cake and filling for an added burst of flavor!

How to Make Dubai Chocolate Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350℉. This step is important because it ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises properly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the egg, vanilla extract, milk, and vegetable oil into your bowl of dry ingredients. Whisk everything together until smooth. The wet ingredients will help create that rich texture we all love in chocolate cake!

Step 4: Incorporate Coffee

Pour in the hot coffee and mix until fully combined. The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee—trust me on this one!

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour your rich batter into a greased 9’’ square or round baking pan and bake for about 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it; once a toothpick comes out clean from the center, it’s ready!

Step 6: Cool Down

Allow the cake to cool completely for about 10–15 minutes. Cooling is essential so that our layers can hold together perfectly when we add our delicious filling.

Step 7: Toast Kataifi

In a large pan over medium heat, toast your chopped kataifi with butter until golden brown and crisp. This step adds texture and flavor which complements our cake wonderfully.

Step 8: Prepare Pistachio Filling

Transfer toasted kataifi to a bowl and mix gently with pistachio cream until well combined. This creamy mixture will be layered onto your cooled cake.

Step 9: Create Ganache

Chop up your chocolate bar and place it into a microwave-safe bowl along with heavy cream. Microwave for about 45 seconds; then let it sit for 3–5 minutes before whisking until smooth. That silky ganache will be drizzled over our cake later!

Step 10: Assemble Your Cake

Spread that luscious pistachio mixture evenly over your cooled chocolate cake. Then pour the ganache generously over the top to finish off this divine dessert.

Step 11: Garnish & Serve

For an extra touch of flair, drizzle some additional pistachio cream on top or sprinkle with toasted kataifi and crushed pistachios. Serve warm for an indulgent experience or let it chill slightly if you prefer firmer slices.

Now you’re all set! Enjoy every bite of this delightful Dubai Chocolate Cake—it’s bound to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Dubai Chocolate Cake

Creating the perfect Dubai Chocolate Cake is all about attention to detail, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your baking game!

• Use fresh ingredients: Always check the expiration dates on your baking powder, baking soda, and cocoa powder. Fresh ingredients ensure that your cake rises beautifully and has a rich chocolate flavor.
• Don’t skip the coffee: The hot coffee not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also helps to keep the cake moist. It may seem counterintuitive, but trust me, you won’t taste the coffee at all!
• Cool completely before frosting: Allowing your cake to cool completely prevents the ganache from melting into the cake instead of sitting beautifully on top. Patience pays off for a stunning presentation!
• Experiment with flavors: If you want to add a twist, consider mixing in a teaspoon of instant espresso powder or a dash of orange zest into the batter. These flavors complement chocolate wonderfully.
• Store properly: To keep your Dubai Chocolate Cake fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it for up to a week.

How to Serve Dubai Chocolate Cake

Serving your Dubai Chocolate Cake is just as important as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create an impressive dessert experience that delights your guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped pistachios: Sprinkle some finely chopped pistachios on top for a pop of color and a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the buttery kataifi filling.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a lightness that contrasts nicely with the rich chocolate cake, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Side Dishes

• Fresh berries: A side of mixed berries adds tartness that complements the sweetness of the cake. Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries are all great options!
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside your slice of cake makes for an indulgent treat that balances out the richness beautifully.
• Mint tea: Serve with refreshing mint tea for a lovely Middle Eastern touch. The soothing flavors will cleanse the palate after each decadent bite.
• Coconut macaroons: These chewy delights provide another layer of texture while their mild sweetness pairs well with the deep chocolate flavor of the cake.

By following these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll create an unforgettable dessert experience that will have everyone raving about your Dubai Chocolate Cake! Enjoy every delicious moment!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Dubai Chocolate Cake is a fantastic option for meal prep, as it stores well and can be made ahead of time. Whether you’re planning for a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to keep this cake fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.
• If you’ve added toppings like ganache or kataifi, it’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal texture.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or leave at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Reheating

• For a warm slice, microwave on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350℉ for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Serve with extra pistachio cream or ganache for added indulgence!

FAQs

If you have questions about making this delectable dessert, I’m here to help!

Can I make Dubai Chocolate Cake without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana. This will keep your cake moist and delicious.

What is the secret to a moist Dubai Chocolate Cake?

The combination of hot coffee and vegetable oil contributes to the rich moisture in this cake. Make sure not to overbake it to maintain that tenderness!

How can I enhance the flavor of my Dubai Chocolate Cake?

You can add espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor or a dash of almond extract for an aromatic twist.

Can I use different nuts instead of pistachios?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, but be sure they’re finely chopped so they blend well with the kataifi filling.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this luxurious Dubai Chocolate Cake! With its rich flavors and delightful textures, it’s perfect for celebrations or simply treating yourself. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; I’m sure it will become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!