Description

Inspired by the viral Dubai chocolate bars, it features fudgy layers, silky chocolate sauce, and a melt-in-your-mouth pistachio filling with Kataifi. Perfect for special occasions—or anytime you crave something irresistibly rich and decadent.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: Use almond flour as a gluten-free option, which also adds a nutty undertone.
2 cups granulated sugar: Coconut sugar can be a healthier substitution without sacrificing sweetness.
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Opt for Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother, milder flavor.
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt: Sea salt or Himalayan pink salt can enhance the flavor profile.
2 large eggs: Flaxseed eggs work well for a vegan alternative.
1 cup whole milk: Almond or oat milk are excellent plant-based choices.
½ cup vegetable oil: Substitute with coconut oil for added fragrance.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Real vanilla bean paste can provide a more intense vanilla aroma.
1 cup boiling water

For the pistachio filling

½ cup finely ground pistachios: Fold into the batter for a nutty depth and signature Middle Eastern touch.
¼ cup chopped roasted pistachios: Use as a topping or mix into the batter for added crunch and visual appeal.
Pistachio cream or spread (optional): Swirl into the batter or drizzle on top after baking for extra richness and a beautiful green contrast.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This ensures easy release, keeping your cake intact and pristine.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until well incorporated. This ensures even distribution, setting the foundation for a rich batter.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes. This step creates a smooth batter, blending flavors harmoniously.

Step 4: Add Boiling Water

Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is well mixed. The batter will be thin—don’t worry, this is exactly what makes the cake super moist.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool cakes in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove from pans to cool completely on a wire rack.

Nutrition

Calories: 320
Sugar: 29g
Sodium: 390mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: 5g