Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Cake Recipe
The Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Cake is pure celebration in dessert form – velvety chocolate layers, a dreamy pistachio-kataifi filling, and a rich whipped ganache all come together to create a cake worthy of your finest gatherings. In every bite, you’ll taste the heart of Middle Eastern flavors: earthy pistachio, a hint of cinnamon, crisp kataifi, and indulgent chocolate. This showstopper is easier to make than it looks, and every step is designed to guarantee applause, whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner or just treating yourself on a regular day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed by how a handful of pantry staples and a few luxurious twists come together for this masterpiece! Each ingredient plays its part, from adding chocolatey depth to creating that signature pistachio crunch, and the result is absolute magic.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy foundation for the supremely moist chocolate cake layers.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and lends a rich, deep color.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a tender crumb.
- Baking powder: Gives the cake its beautiful lift and fluffy texture.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds warm, exotic undertones that set this cake apart.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Large eggs: Provide structure and keep the cake layers soft and plush.
- Olive oil: Brings richness and keeps the crumb incredibly moist.
- Whole milk: Adds moisture and helps bind the batter together.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with a sweet, aromatic note.
- Kataifi pastry: Those delicate, shredded filo strands add irresistible crunch to the filling.
- Unsalted butter: Toasts the kataifi to nutty, golden perfection.
- Pistachio butter: Delivers creamy, nutty decadence in the heart of this cake.
- White chocolate: Sweetly binds the pistachio filling and brings milky smoothness.
- Neutral oil (optional): Makes the filling extra velvety if you want a luscious finish.
- Dark chocolate: The star of the whipped ganache, ensuring every bite is deeply chocolatey.
- Heavy cream: Whips up luxuriously to give your ganache airy volume and silkiness.
- Honey: Adds a glossy finish and a touch of floral sweetness to your frosting.
How to Make Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Pans and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line and grease two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment for easy release. This ensures your Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Cake will come out with smooth, perfect edges every time.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This quick step guarantees even distribution of cocoa and spices throughout the cake—no pockets of flour or flavorless bites!
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, olive oil, whole milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. The olive oil keeps the cake moist, while vanilla and eggs create that melt-in-your-mouth quality we love.
Step 4: Make the Batter
Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir gently until just combined—overmixing leads to dense cake, so stop as soon as you see no dry streaks. Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Bake the cake layers for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a rack. Allow the layers to cool completely before assembly.
Step 6: Toast the Kataifi
In a large skillet, gently separate the kataifi pastry strands and toast them with melted unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir until they’re golden and crisp, then cool on a plate. This step infuses a nutty, toasty flavor that elevates the pistachio filling.
Step 7: Prepare the Pistachio-Kataifi Filling
Melt your white chocolate (microwave or double boiler both work). Let it cool slightly, then stir in the pistachio butter and an optional splash of neutral oil for extra creaminess. Fold in the toasted kataifi, making sure every strand gets coated, and chill this mixture until it’s thick and scoopable.
Step 8: Whip the Ganache Frosting
Simmer the heavy cream and honey, then pour over chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for five minutes (no peeking!), then stir until totally smooth. Cool to room temperature and chill until just firm enough to whip; then, use a mixer to create a fluffy, glossy frosting that will be the crowning glory of your Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Cake.
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Level the cooled cake layers for a pro finish. Place one on your serving plate and pipe a thick border of whipped ganache around the edge. Fill the center with all that irresistible pistachio-kataifi filling, then top with the second cake layer.
Step 10: Frost and Chill
Coat the entire cake generously with your whipped ganache (an offset spatula is handy here). Chill for at least two hours to set the filling firmly and allow the flavors to meld into each decadent bite.
How to Serve Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Cake
Garnishes
You can elevate every serving with a flourish! Sprinkle chopped pistachios for bright color, add a drizzle of melted chocolate, or scatter rose petals for a Dubai-inspired finishing touch. A few pieces of toasted kataifi on top hint at the luxe crunch tucked inside.
Side Dishes
Pair your cake with strong Turkish coffee or cardamom-spiced tea to complement its Middle Eastern flair. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side mellows the richness, while fresh berries add a burst of brightness and contrast each fudgy forkful.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Cake into slim wedges and serve on regal gold-rimmed plates for a dramatic statement. For parties, cut it into small squares for an indulgent dessert buffet. You can even layer it in parfait glasses with extra whipped ganache and pistachio for a deconstructed delight that will wow your guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cake can be covered and refrigerated for up to four days. The flavors deepen and mingle as it chills, making each bite somehow even more delicious on day two or three. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container so it doesn’t pick up any fridge odors.
Freezing
The Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Cake freezes beautifully! Wrap slices (or the whole cake) tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for extra protection. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain the cake’s best texture.
Reheating
To enjoy your cake slightly warm, microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds; this softens the ganache just enough and releases the gorgeous chocolate aroma. Avoid overheating, as the filling’s delicate texture is best preserved with gentle warming.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pistachio butter for the filling?
Absolutely! Store-bought pistachio butter works beautifully and saves time without sacrificing flavor. Just look for a smooth, unsweetened variety for the purest pistachio taste.
What if I can’t find kataifi pastry?
No worries—if kataifi isn’t available, you can use finely shredded filo dough or even very finely chopped toasted puff pastry for crunch. The unique texture is worth seeking out, but it’s possible to adapt in a pinch!
Do I have to wait overnight to assemble?
While you can make everything in one day, letting the cake and fillings rest overnight helps the flavors deepen and makes assembly easier, as everything will be firmer and easier to handle.
How do I get clean, neat slices?
Chill the cake thoroughly before slicing and use a sharp, warm knife (run it under hot water, then wipe dry between cuts). This keeps the ganache neat and prevents the filling from squishing out.
Can I make this Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Cake gluten-free?
Yes! Swap all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend and double-check that your kataifi or substitute is gluten-free. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so everyone can indulge.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a cake that’s truly unforgettable, you owe it to yourself to make the Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Cake. Every step brings a dash of joy, and every slice will transport you straight to a Dubai café, surrounded by sweet spices and warmth. Gather your favorite people and dive in—this cake is meant for sharing, savoring, and celebrating!
Print
Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 8-inch cake 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Dubai with this decadent Chocolate Pistachio Cake. Layers of rich chocolate cake sandwich a luscious pistachio-kataifi filling, all enveloped in a velvety whipped ganache frosting. This show-stopping dessert is sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
Chocolate Cake Layers:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pistachio-Kataifi Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups kataifi pastry (separated into strands)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for toasting kataifi)
- 3/4 cup pistachio butter (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
- 2 teaspoons neutral oil (optional, for extra creaminess)
Whipped Ganache Frosting:
- 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate (chopped)
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- Day 1 – Prepare Components: Preheat oven. Grease and line cake pans. Whisk dry ingredients. Whisk wet ingredients. Combine and bake. Cool. Toast kataifi. Make pistachio filling. Make whipped ganache. Chill.
- Day 2 – Assemble: Level cake layers. Pipe ganache border. Fill with pistachio mixture. Top with second layer. Frost entire cake. Chill before serving.
Notes
- For an extra touch of luxury, garnish the cake with chopped pistachios or edible gold flakes.
- Ensure the ganache is whipped to a light and fluffy consistency for a delicate finish.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Dubai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Dubai, Chocolate Pistachio Cake, Dessert, Whipped Ganache, Kataifi, Luxury
