Name: Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cake with Pistachio Knafeh and Ganache Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 cup all purpose flour (130g); ¾ cup granulated sugar (150g); 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 1 egg; ⅓ cup vegetable oil (65g); ½ cup buttermilk (120g) (mix ½ cup milk + ½ tbsp vinegar to make your own); 1 tsp instant coffee (can be reduced to ½ tsp); ¼ cup boiling water (60g); ¼ cup cocoa powder (25g); 3 cups shredded kataifi (100g); 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (56g); ¼ tsp salt; ⅔ cup pistachio cream (185g); ½ cup heavy cream (120g); 120g dark or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped or chips; Fresh strawberries, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 200 reviews

Get ready to indulge in an extraordinary treat with the Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cake with Pistachio Knafeh and Ganache Recipe. This stunning dessert combines the richness of moist chocolate cake, the nutty crunch of pistachio-infused knafeh, juicy fresh strawberries, and the silky allure of a luscious chocolate ganache. Each bite is a harmonious dance of textures and flavors that will transport you straight to the vibrant and decadent food scene of Dubai. If you’re a fan of desserts that both look and taste spectacular, this recipe is absolutely for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A wooden bowl filled with smooth, glossy, dark brown chocolate batter with small bubbles on the surface. A metal whisk with some batter on its wires rests inside the bowl, partly submerged in the mixture. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, creating a clean and bright background. The rich texture of the batter contrasts with the natural wood grain of the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Though this recipe might sound fancy, it relies on simple, well-loved ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the fluffy base of the chocolate cake to the crisp pistachio knafeh topping and the magical ganache finish, these ingredients guarantee an unforgettable dessert experience.

All-purpose flour (1 cup): The backbone providing structure and softness to the cake.
Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens the cake perfectly without overpowering flavors.
Baking powder (1 tsp): Gives the cake that essential rise and fluffiness.
Baking soda (½ tsp): Helps with browning and tender crumb development.
Salt (½ tsp + ¼ tsp): Elevates all the other flavors and balances sweetness.
Egg (1): Adds moisture and helps bind everything together.
Vegetable oil (⅓ cup): Keeps the cake tender and moist.
Buttermilk (½ cup): Adds subtle tang and helps create a light crumb. (You can easily make this at home with milk and vinegar!)
Instant coffee (1 tsp): Deepens the chocolate flavor beautifully without tasting like coffee.
Boiling water (¼ cup): Blooms the cocoa powder for a glossy, intense chocolate taste.
Cocoa powder (¼ cup): The star chocolate ingredient that delivers rich flavor and color.
Kataifi shredded pastry (3 cups): Provides that buttery, crispy texture essential for the knafeh topping.
Unsalted butter (4 tbsp, melted): Adds richness and helps achieve golden, crunchy kataifi.
Pistachio cream (⅔ cup): Offers nutty creaminess that contrasts perfectly with the crispy kataifi.
Heavy cream (½ cup): Creates the silky base for the luscious chocolate ganache.
Dark or semi-sweet chocolate (120g): Works best for the ganache to strike the perfect balance of sweetness and bittersweet chocolate intensity.
Fresh strawberries (to taste): Brings a juicy, vibrant touch that lifts the entire dessert.

How to Make Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cake with Pistachio Knafeh and Ganache Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper and a light coating of butter or oil. If you’re making your own buttermilk, mix half a cup of milk with half a tablespoon of vinegar and set that aside to curdle. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, whisking thoroughly to break up lumps. Next, whisk in the egg, vegetable oil, and buttermilk gently, just until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together boiling water, cocoa powder, and instant coffee until shiny and smooth—this step really unlocks the deep chocolate flavor. Fold this cocoa mixture into your cake batter slowly until it’s glossy and well combined. Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and bake for about 20-23 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Let the cake cool completely before moving on.

Step 2: Make the Pistachio Knafeh Topping

While the cake cools, turn your attention to the knafeh topping. In a non-stick pan over medium-low heat, combine the shredded kataifi pastry, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir often and break up any clumps as the kataifi transforms into a toasty, golden brown, crunchy delight. This process takes about 10 minutes—be patient and attentive to avoid burning. Once crispy, stir in the luscious pistachio cream so every crispy strand gets coated in that nutty creaminess.

Step 3: Create the Chocolate Ganache

Bring the heavy cream just to a boil, then pour it over the chopped dark chocolate. Cover the bowl and let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to allow the heat to melt the chocolate gently. After that, stir until smooth and glossy. Let the ganache sit for around 10 minutes to thicken to a spreadable consistency. The silky ganache will be the perfect finishing touch to your cake.

Step 4: Assemble the Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cake with Pistachio Knafeh and Ganache Recipe

When everything has cooled to just the right temperature, carefully spread the pistachio knafeh layer evenly over the chocolate cake base. Next, pile on fresh, chopped strawberries generously, adding a fresh and juicy element to the dessert. Finally, pour the thickened chocolate ganache over the top, letting it drip beautifully over the knafeh and strawberries. Now your masterpiece is ready to slice, serve, and savor!

How to Serve Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cake with Pistachio Knafeh and Ganache Recipe

A thick, dark brown chocolate cake sits on a white marbled surface that is placed on a wooden stand. The cake has two main layers on top: a base layer of rich, textured chocolate cake, followed by a green, textured spread that looks creamy with tiny herb-like bits. Over the green layer, there is a glossy, dark chocolate sauce that drips down the side of the cake. Fresh, bright red strawberry slices are scattered generously on and around the chocolate sauce, adding a pop of color and freshness. The overall presentation is rich and inviting, with a close-up view that highlights the contrast between the dark and bright colors. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a final flourish elevates the overall experience. Lightly sprinkle crushed pistachios atop the ganache for extra crunch and a lovely green pop of color. A few whole fresh strawberries or even edible rose petals add a sophisticated, Instagram-worthy finish that will impress anyone lucky enough to dig in.

Side Dishes

This cake is a fully loaded dessert that can shine on its own, but if you want to complement it, consider serving with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The creamy, cool textures balance the rich ganache and crunchy knafeh effortlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a truly special occasion, serve individual slices on elegant plates and drizzle extra ganache in decorative swirls around the edges. You could even construct mini versions in clear glass jars to showcase layers of cake, pistachio knafeh, strawberry, and ganache—perfect for parties or gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cake with Pistachio Knafeh and Ganache Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The fresh strawberries mean it’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Make sure to keep it chilled to preserve the texture of the knafeh topping.

Freezing

While the cake does freeze well, the fresh strawberries do not. If you want to freeze it, first remove the strawberry layer, then wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add fresh strawberries before serving.

Reheating

To enjoy the cake as if freshly made, allow it to come to room temperature before serving. If you want the knafeh topping extra crispy, briefly warm the slice in a low oven for a few minutes, then add the strawberries and ganache freshly before serving.

FAQs

Can I substitute the pistachio cream with something else?

Yes! While pistachio cream adds a unique nutty flavor, you could substitute with almond or hazelnut cream. Keep in mind the flavor profile changes slightly, but the texture will remain creamy and delicious.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

This recipe relies on eggs, butter, cream, and chocolate traditionally made with dairy, so a vegan version would require careful substitutions such as plant-based milk buttermilk, vegan chocolate, and egg replacers. The knafeh pastry is buttery by nature, so vegan butter alternatives will be necessary.

What is kataifi, and can I find it easily?

Kataifi is a shredded phyllo dough popular in Middle Eastern desserts, giving a flaky and crispy texture once baked or toasted. You’ll often find it in Middle Eastern or Mediterranean grocery stores, and some specialty stores or online retailers carry it too.

Can I use fresh strawberries in the batter?

Fresh strawberries are best enjoyed as a topping to maintain their bright flavor and juicy texture. Adding them into the batter might make the cake soggy and affect its rise and crumb.

What’s the best way to ensure the chocolate ganache is silky smooth?

The secret is pouring hot cream over the chopped chocolate and letting it sit before stirring gently. Avoid over-stirring or stirring too quickly, as this can incorporate air bubbles. Using good-quality chocolate helps achieve a perfectly smooth ganache every time.

Final Thoughts

This Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cake with Pistachio Knafeh and Ganache Recipe is a true showstopper that combines textures and flavors you’ll want to savor again and again. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, the blend of rich chocolate, nutty crunch, and fresh fruit creates an unforgettable experience. Give it a try—you may just discover your new favorite dessert to make anytime you want a slice of joy.