Arabic
We’ve all seen the trend that Dubai-based chocolatier Fix has created and continues to do. It went viral for a reason, the irresistible combination of crispy kunafa (kataifi), pistachios, and tahini, all enveloped in rich chocolate, isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s a flavor sensation here to stay. From brownies to tarts, this unique blend has captivated food lovers worldwide. Today, we’re bringing that iconic Dubai flavor to a decadent chocolate cake.
Imagine a moist, rich chocolate cake layered with the viral pistachio kunafa mix, then generously coated with a silky milk chocolate ganache and finished with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios. This Dubai chocolate cake is a showstopper, perfect for impressing friends and family with its unique and unforgettable taste.
Tips for Success:
- Even Cake Layers: If your cake develops a dome while baking, trim the top for a perfectly flat surface, ensuring even layering.
- Same Day Preps: Prepare the pistachio kunafa topping and ganache while the cake bakes, streamlining the assembly process.
- Freezing for Convenience: Bake the cake in advance, wrap it tightly in cling film, and freeze until needed.
- Make-Ahead Toppings: The kunafa topping and ganache can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Perfectly Crispy Kunafa: Allow the kunafa ample time to crisp up on the stovetop (10-15 minutes), stirring regularly for even browning.
- Quality Pistachio Paste: Opt for a high-quality pistachio paste that isn’t overly sweet to balance the cake’s richness.
Dubai Chocolate Cake
Rich, moist, and decadent chocolate cake layer topped with the viral Dubai pistachio kunafa mix, and finished with milk chocolate ganache and crushed pistachios.
Ingredients
For The Cake
- 120 g all-purpose flour
- 175 g granulated sugar
- 44 g dark cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 55 g vegetable oil
- 120 g milk room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 120 g hot water
For The Pistachio Kunafa Filling
- 130 g kunafa kataifi
- 1 1/2 tbsp butter
- 170 g pistachio paste
- 20 g tahini
For The Ganache
- 220 g milk chocolate
- 120 g liquid whipping cream
- Crushed pistachios or chocolate shavings for decoration
Instructions
For The Cake
- Preheat your oven to 170°C. Spray an 8 or 9-inch round or 8×8 inch square cake pan with non-stick spray and line the bottom with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, hot water, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before inverting it onto a serving plate. For make-ahead preparation, wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and freeze.
For The Pistachio Kunafa Filling
- Finely chop the kunafa using scissors or pulse it briefly in a blender. Be careful not to over-process.
- Melt the butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the kunafa and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown (10-15 minutes).
- Remove the kunafa from the heat and let it cool completely. Then, add the pistachio paste and tahini, mixing thoroughly to ensure all the kunafa is coated.
For The Ganache
- Place the milk chocolate in a heat-proof bowl.
- Heat the liquid whipping cream in a saucepan until it begins to steam (do not boil).
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for one minute. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth. If needed, microwave for 20 seconds to fully melt any remaining chocolate.
- Cover the surface of the ganache with cling film to prevent a skin from forming and let it cool to room temperature.
Assembly
- Place the cooled cake on a serving dish. Spread the pistachio kunafa filling evenly over the top of the cake.
- Pour the milk chocolate ganache over the kunafa filling, smoothing it with a spatula.
- Garnish with crushed pistachios or chocolate shavings.
- Slice and enjoy your cake!
