Dubai Kunafa Chocolate Cake – A Fusion of Middle Eastern & Chocolate Indulgence

 

If you love the crispy, nutty flavors of kunafa and the rich decadence of chocolate cake, this Dubai Kunafa Chocolate Cake is the perfect fusion dessert! Inspired by the beloved Middle Eastern dessert kunafa, this cake brings together layers of moist chocolate cake, crunchy pistachio kunafa, and silky chocolate ganache.

The best part? It’s easy, quick, and visually stunning! You can use a boxed cake mix or even a store-bought chocolate cake for convenience. But if you're in the mood for homemade goodness, my moist chocolate cake recipe never fails to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Simple & Quick – Use a store-bought cake or make one from scratch!

✔️ Crunchy & Creamy – The contrast of crispy kataifi pastry with smooth chocolate ganache is irresistible.

✔️ Perfect for Special Occasions – A stunning dessert that looks fancy but is easy to make!

Tips for the Best Dubai Kunafa Chocolate Cake

✔️ Make it ahead: The flavors get even better the next day!

✔️ Use high-quality chocolate: It makes a difference in taste and texture.

✔️ Customize it: Swap pistachios for almonds or drizzle with extra chocolate sauce!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 pan

2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Add eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

4. Slowly stir in boiling water—the batter will be thin, but that’s what makes the cake super moist!

5. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Let the cake cool slightly but keep it warm for assembling.

Step 2: Prepare the Pistachio Kunafa Layer

1. In a pan, melt butter and add the chopped kataifi pastry. Toast it over medium heat until it turns golden brown and crispy.

2. Remove from heat and mix in pistachio paste, crushed pistachios, and tahini to create a rich, nutty layer.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat whipping cream in a saucepan until warm (do not boil).

2. Pour the warm cream over chopped chocolate and let it sit for a minute.

3. Stir until smooth and glossy.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. While the cake is still warm, soak it with milk to enhance its softness.

2. Evenly spread the pistachio kunafa layer over the cake, pressing it down gently.

3. Pour the chocolate ganache over the top, letting it coat the cake beautifully.

4. Garnish with chopped pistachios and pipe extra pistachio paste for a professional finish.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Let the cake set for at least 30 minutes before slicing. The combination of chocolate, crunchy kunafa, and nutty pistachios makes this a unique and indulgent dessert that will impress everyone at the table!

Instagram Reel:

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Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake

2 cups granulated sugar

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

1 ½ teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

1 cup buttermilk (or 1 tbsp vinegar mixed with 1 cup milk)

½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup boiling water

For Soaking

½ cup warm milk

For the Pistachio Layer

1 tbsp butter

100g kataifi pastry, shredded

3-4 tbsp pistachio paste (plus extra for piping)

1 tbsp crushed pistachios

1 tsp tahini

For the Chocolate Layer

200g chocolate of choice (dark, milk, or semi-sweet)

100ml whipping cream

This cake is inspired by Walla_Abueid recipe, whose innovative take on flavors encouraged me to try this delicious fusion of chocolate and kunafa!

Would you try this kunafa-inspired chocolate cake? Let me know in the comments!

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morewishcuisine by Mahwish (@morewishcuisine) • Instagram photos and videos