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Inspired by the viral Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Bar, this cake is an elegant fusion of rich chocolate, nutty pistachios, and crispy layers that create an indulgent experience in every bite. Featuring layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy pistachio filling, and a smooth milk chocolate glaze, this cake is finished with a touch of gold dust for that signature Dubai-style luxury.

With decadent textures, deep flavors, and stunning presentation, this cake is perfect for special occasions, gifting, or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

✅ Inspired by the viral Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Bar – Transforms it into a show-stopping dessert.
✅ Ultra-Moist Chocolate Cake – Infused with premium cocoa and a hint of espresso.
✅ Creamy Pistachio Filling – A velvety blend of pistachios, white chocolate, and mascarpone.
✅ Crispy Kunafa (Kataifi) Layer – Adds an unexpected crunch between the soft cake layers.
✅ Silky Milk Chocolate Glaze – A smooth, shiny finish that makes it truly luxurious.
✅ Garnished with Pistachios & Gold Dust – Because Dubai desserts should look as opulent as they taste.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

1. Dark Chocolate & Cocoa Powder

A mix of dark chocolate and cocoa ensures deep chocolate flavor without being overly sweet.

👉 Alternative: Use milk chocolate for a sweeter profile.

2. Pistachios

Both ground and chopped pistachios provide nutty depth and crunch.

👉 Alternative: Almonds can work, but pistachios are key to the authentic flavor.

3. Kunafa (Kataifi Pastry) for the Crunch Layer

This shredded phyllo pastry bakes into a crispy, caramelized layer, adding a delightful textural contrast.

👉 Alternative: Use crushed feuilletine, crispy wafers, or crushed toasted phyllo sheets.

4. Mascarpone & White Chocolate Filling

This makes the pistachio cream rich, smooth, and slightly sweet.

👉 Alternative: Use cream cheese instead of mascarpone.

5. Edible Gold Dust

A touch of gold elevates this cake to Dubai-level elegance.

Equipment You’ll Need

✔ Three 8-inch cake pans – For even, moist layers.
✔ Electric mixer – For the batter and pistachio filling.
✔ Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl – For melting chocolate.
✔ Offset spatula – For smooth frosting application.

How to Make Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Bar Cake

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
¾ cup (75g) cocoa powder (Dutch-processed for richness)
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp sea salt
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
¾ cup (150g) brown sugar
3 large eggs, at room temperature
¾ cup (180ml) vegetable oil
1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
½ cup (120ml) hot espresso or strong coffee
2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Crispy Kunafa Layer:

1 cup shredded kunafa (kataifi pastry)
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp honey

For the Pistachio Cream Filling:

1 cup (120g) shelled pistachios
½ cup (100g) white chocolate, melted
1 cup (225g) mascarpone cheese
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
¼ cup (30g) powdered sugar
1 tsp rosewater (optional, for Middle Eastern flavor)

For the Milk Chocolate Glaze:

1 cup (175g) milk chocolate, chopped
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
1 tbsp unsalted butter

For Garnish:

¼ cup chopped pistachios
Edible gold dust or gold leaf

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together sugars, eggs, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently.
Stir in hot espresso or coffee to deepen the chocolate flavor.
Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 22-25 minutes.
Let the cakes cool completely before assembling.

Step 2: Make the Crispy Kunafa Layer

Toss shredded kunafa with melted butter and honey until coated.
Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy.
Let cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Pistachio Cream Filling

Blend pistachios in a food processor until finely ground.
Add melted white chocolate, mascarpone, powdered sugar, and rosewater. Blend until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
Fold the whipped cream into the pistachio mixture until smooth. Chill until needed.

Step 4: Make the Milk Chocolate Glaze

Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until warm (not boiling).
Pour over chopped milk chocolate and let sit for 1-2 minutes.
Stir in butter until smooth and glossy. Let cool slightly before using.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving plate.
Spread half of the pistachio cream filling evenly on top.
Sprinkle with half of the crispy kunafa for crunch.
Repeat with the second cake layer and remaining pistachio cream and kunafa.
Place the third cake layer on top.

Step 6: Glaze & Decorate

Pour the milk chocolate glaze over the cake, letting it drip over the edges.
Sprinkle with chopped pistachios and edible gold dust for a stunning finish.
Let the cake set for 30 minutes before slicing.

A luxurious dessert featuring layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy pistachio filling, and a smooth milk chocolate glaze, garnished with chopped pistachios and edible gold dust

Serving & Pairing Ideas

🍵 With Arabic Coffee (Gahwa): Complements the chocolate and pistachio flavors.
🍦 With Pistachio Gelato: Doubles the nutty richness.
🍾 With a Glass of Dessert Wine: A perfect pairing for a special occasion.