The Dubai Chocolate Roll Cake is an indulgent, show-stopping dessert inspired by the globally viral Dubai chocolate creations that took the dessert world by storm. This elegant roll cake combines deep chocolate flavors, nutty pistachio richness, and the irresistible crunch of toasted kataifi, all wrapped into a soft, flourless oat-based chocolate sponge.
With its luxurious layers and contrasting textures, the Dubai Chocolate Roll Cake feels both modern and deeply rooted in Middle Eastern dessert traditions. Every slice reveals a beautiful spiral of chocolate ganache and pistachio cream, finished with a light chocolate mousse topping and decorative pistachio kataifi bites. It’s a dessert designed to impress, yet surprisingly approachable when broken down step by step.
Whether you’re making it for a celebration, a dinner party, or simply because you love rich chocolate desserts, this cake delivers a memorable experience from the very first bite.
What Makes Dubai Chocolate Roll Cake Special?
The inspiration behind the Dubai Chocolate Roll Cake comes from the famous Dubai chocolate bar that rose to popularity for its bold textures and flavor contrasts. Pistachio cream, crispy kataifi, and smooth chocolate are combined in a way that feels luxurious but balanced.
This roll cake version takes those iconic elements and transforms them into a layered dessert with:
- A soft, flexible chocolate oat sponge
- A rich dairy-free dark chocolate ganache
- A creamy pistachio filling mixed with crunchy kataifi
- A light chocolate mousse coating
- A decorative finish of pistachios and toasted kataifi
Each layer plays a role, creating a dessert that is rich without being overwhelming.
Why You’ll Love This Dubai Chocolate Roll Cake
A Stunning Presentation
When sliced, the rolled layers create an elegant spiral that looks bakery-level impressive.
Balanced Sweetness
Dark chocolate offsets the sweetness of the pistachio cream, keeping the dessert rich but not cloying.
Unique Texture Combination
Soft cake, smooth ganache, creamy filling, and crispy kataifi make every bite exciting.
Perfect for Special Occasions
This is the kind of dessert that becomes the centerpiece of the table.
Ingredients for Dubai Chocolate Roll Cake
This recipe is made up of several components that come together beautifully. Each section lists clear measurements to make the process smooth and stress-free.
Chocolate Oat Roll Cake
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- ¾ cup caster sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1½ cups finely ground rolled oats
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons strong brewed coffee, cooled
Dark Chocolate Ganache
- 1½ cups dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- ¼ cup almond milk, room temperature
Pistachio Kataifi Filling
- 1 cup pistachio cream or pistachio butter
- ¾ cup kataifi pastry, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
Chocolate Mousse Topping
- 2 cups chocolate mousse (prepared ahead or store-bought)
Decoration
- ½ cup toasted kataifi and pistachio bites
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios
How to Make Dubai Chocolate Roll Cake
Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll achieve a smooth, crack-free roll cake with stunning layers.
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends slightly over the edges for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Oat Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and caster sugar until pale and slightly thickened. Add the vanilla extract and brewed coffee, mixing gently.
In a separate bowl, combine the ground oats and cocoa powder. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and spread gently with a spatula. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cake is set and springs back lightly when touched.
Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
Step 4: Toast the Kataifi
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped kataifi and cook, stirring frequently, until golden and crisp. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 5: Prepare the Pistachio Filling
In a bowl, combine the pistachio cream with the cooled toasted kataifi. Mix until evenly distributed. Set aside.
Step 6: Make the Chocolate Ganache
Place the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Set the bowl over a pot of gently simmering water, making sure the bowl does not touch the water.
As the chocolate melts, slowly add the almond milk while whisking continuously until smooth and glossy.
Step 7: Assemble the Layers
Carefully lift the cooled cake from the pan using the parchment paper and place it on a flat surface.
Spread the chocolate ganache evenly over the cake, leaving a small border around the edges. Spoon the pistachio kataifi mixture over the ganache and gently smooth it out.
Step 8: Roll the Cake
Starting from the short edge, carefully roll the cake into a tight log using the parchment paper to guide you. Take your time to keep the roll even.
Wrap the rolled cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 hours or freeze for 1 hour to set.
Step 9: Coat with Chocolate Mousse
Once chilled, unwrap the cake and place it on a serving platter. Spread the chocolate mousse evenly over the entire surface.
Step 10: Decorate
Warm any remaining ganache slightly and drizzle it over the mousse. Finish by sprinkling toasted kataifi bites and chopped pistachios on top.
Step 11: Slice and Serve
Use a sharp knife to slice the Dubai Chocolate Roll Cake into clean portions. Serve with coffee, tea, or almond milk.
Storage Tips
- Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Keep tightly covered to maintain moisture
- Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts
Final Thoughts
The Dubai Chocolate Roll Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. Inspired by one of the most iconic modern chocolate creations, this cake blends tradition and innovation in every layer.
From the soft oat chocolate sponge to the pistachio kataifi filling and creamy chocolate finish, every bite feels intentional, luxurious, and deeply satisfying. If you’re looking for a dessert that truly stands out, this is one recipe worth mastering.
