Name: Dubai Chocolate Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 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; 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 a can of table cream

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If you have a sweet tooth that craves something utterly decadent and uniquely delightful, you are going to adore this Dubai Chocolate Cake Recipe. This cake is a divine fusion of rich chocolate layers paired with the nutty crunch of pistachio filling, wrapped up in a delicate shredded phyllo dough that adds texture and a hint of Middle Eastern charm. Every bite is like a celebration of flavors and textures, and it’s surprisingly simple to make at home once you know the secrets. Trust me, this cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that will make your kitchen smell like a cozy chocolate haven and leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white speckled bowl filled with a textured green mixture that looks creamy and shredded, evenly spread across the bowl’s depth. The green mixture has fine strands and a slightly clumped appearance, suggesting it is thick and sticky. A white spatula with a gold handle rests on the right side, partially covered in the same green mixture, its tip embedded in the dish. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, adding subtle contrast to the earthy green color of the food. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of the Dubai Chocolate Cake Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each picking up a special role to bring balance and depth. From the cocoa powder to the pistachio cream, these ingredients are what make the cake rich, moist, and full of delightful contrasts in texture.

1 cup all-purpose flour: Your base for structure; make sure it’s sifted for a light crumb.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness that enhances the chocolate flavor perfectly.
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Dutch-processed preferred for a smooth, rich chocolate taste.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Reacts with acidic elements for lift and texture.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances chocolate essence.
1 large egg: Binds everything together and adds moisture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the chocolate flavors.
½ cup milk: Keeps the batter smooth and tender.
½ cup vegetable oil: Ensures the cake is incredibly moist and soft.
½ cup hot coffee: Deepens the chocolate taste without overpowering it.
2 cups shredded phyllo dough (kataifi), finely chopped: Provides a nutty crunch for the pistachio filling.
2 tablespoons butter: Brings richness to the phyllo dough and helps it toast perfectly.
1 cup pistachio cream: Creamy and nutty, it’s the star component of the filling.
4 oz milk or semi-sweet chocolate bar: For the luscious chocolate layer on top.
½ cup heavy cream or a can of table cream: Creates a smooth, velvety ganache.

How to Make Dubai Chocolate Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

This step is where magic begins. Start by sifting together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, whisk the egg, sugar, and vanilla extract until it’s smooth and slightly fluffy. Slowly add in the vegetable oil and milk, mixing well. Next, alternate adding the dry ingredients and hot coffee to the wet mix, combining just until smooth. The hot coffee is the secret ingredient that intensifies the chocolate flavor, making this cake stand out.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking pan by greasing it lightly. Pour the batter evenly into the pan and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be moist but fully set. Let it cool completely on a wire rack — patience here makes for perfect slicing later!

Step 3: Make the Pistachio Filling

While the cake cools, it’s time to bring the Middle Eastern flair into the filling. Gently toast the shredded phyllo dough in a pan with the butter until golden and crisp. This adds texture and flavor to the filling. Combine the toasted phyllo with the creamy pistachio cream and mix well. This luscious filling will offer a satisfying crunch balanced with nutty creaminess.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Layer

Melt the chocolate bar gently, either over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave. Heat the heavy cream until warm (not boiling), then pour it over the melted chocolate and stir until you get a smooth, glossy ganache. This layer will crown your cake with rich, silky goodness.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Slice the cooled chocolate cake horizontally to create two primary layers. Spread the pistachio filling generously over the bottom layer, then carefully place the top cake layer back on. Pour the chocolate ganache over the top, using a spatula to smooth it over the edges. Refrigerate for at least an hour to set all the flavors together perfectly before serving.

How to Serve Dubai Chocolate Cake Recipe

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with smooth, dark brown chocolate batter. The batter has a thick, shiny texture with slight swirls made by a metal whisk resting in the center. A woman's hand is holding the whisk, stirring the mixture gently from the lower right side. The bowl sits on a surface with a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation, sprinkle chopped pistachios on top of the ganache or add a dusting of cocoa powder for a rustic look. Fresh mint leaves also pair beautifully, adding a splash of color and a refreshing aroma that complements the rich chocolate and nutty flavors.

Side Dishes

A light dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream works wonders alongside the Dubai Chocolate Cake Recipe. The creamy coldness contrasts with the dense cake and makes every bite feel more indulgent. Additionally, fresh berries or a simple fruit compote can refresh the palate between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake into petite squares and serve on individual plates with a drizzle of rose syrup for an exotic touch. Alternatively, layer the cake pieces in glass parfait cups alternating with whipped cream and crushed pistachios for a stunning deconstructed version that’s just as delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Dubai Chocolate Cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the pistachio filling fresh and the ganache nicely set, ensuring every slice stays moist and flavorful.

Freezing

If you want to save some cake for later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to preserve texture and taste.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly baked feel, let the cake come to room temperature before eating. You can also warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds; just be careful not to melt the ganache too much. This simple step revives the moistness and intensifies the chocolate aroma.

FAQs

Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk or semi-sweet for the chocolate layer?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give the cake a richer, more intense chocolate flavor. Just keep the quantity the same and adjust sweetness in the filling if you prefer.

Is the shredded phyllo dough easy to find?

Shredded phyllo dough, or kataifi, is usually available in Middle Eastern or Mediterranean grocery stores. If you can’t find it, finely chopped crispy phyllo sheets can be a decent substitute.

Can I make this cake vegan?

With some tweaks, yes! You’d need to swap the egg for a flax egg, use plant-based milk and cream alternatives, and ensure the chocolate is dairy-free. The texture might vary slightly but can still be delicious.

How important is the hot coffee in this recipe?

Very important! The hot coffee doesn’t make the cake taste like coffee but enhances and deepens the chocolate flavor wonderfully. If you’re not a fan of coffee, strong brewed chicory or hot water can work, but coffee is best.

Can I make the pistachio cream from scratch?

Yes, homemade pistachio cream can elevate the cake even more. Blend roasted pistachios with a bit of sugar and a light oil until smooth. Store-bought pistachio cream is fine for convenience, though!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cake that is both strikingly delicious and a bit adventurous, this Dubai Chocolate Cake Recipe is your new best friend. It offers a perfect harmony of rich chocolate, nutty pistachio, and tender cake layers that everyone will love. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this dessert is a celebrated favorite that brings a little bit of Dubai’s vibrant flavors right to your table. So go ahead, bake it, share it, and watch smiles grow!