Viral Dubai Chocolate Cake Recipe | A Decadent Dessert Worth Sharing
I recently baked the Viral Dubai Chocolate Cake for a family gathering and let me tell you it completely stole the show. From the moment it came out of the oven to the first glossy drizzle of ganache, every step felt special. Guests couldn’t stop asking for seconds and honestly, I wasn’t surprised. This cake isn’t just another dessert; it’s a centerpiece that grabs attention with its rich look and even richer taste.

What makes this recipe exciting is how it combines deep chocolate flavors with that signature glossy finish everyone’s been raving about online. It reminds me of why Dubai Chocolate Brownie recipes became so popular desserts from this region always bring a touch of elegance with bold taste. With this cake, you get a blend of luxury and comfort all in one bite.
Why You Should Try Viral Dubai Chocolate Cake
There are plenty of chocolate cakes out there, but this one stands out for its texture, shine and taste. The cake itself is moist and soft, while the ganache topping delivers a luscious, velvety finish. Every slice looks like it came straight from a high-end bakery.
This recipe has gone viral for a reason it’s simple to make yet feels extraordinary. The use of hot coffee in the batter might surprise you, but it’s the secret that brings out the rich cocoa flavor without making the cake taste like coffee. Pair that with silky ganache and you’ve got a dessert that’s Instagram-worthy and soul-satisfying at the same time.
Ingredients for Viral Dubai Chocolate Cake
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this chocolate masterpiece to life:
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot brewed coffee

For the Ganache
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
For Decoration (Optional)
- Chocolate curls or shavings
- Crushed pistachios
- Edible gold leaf
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Viral Dubai Chocolate Cake
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper. This step prevents sticking and makes removing the cakes a breeze. Don’t skip it parchment saves the day when it’s time to assemble.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Whisking helps aerate the mixture, which means your cake bakes lighter and fluffier. Take a moment to sift out any cocoa clumps so you don’t end up with bitter bites.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Using room-temperature ingredients ensures they combine smoothly, giving you a better texture in the finished cake. The mixture should look creamy and slightly frothy once blended.
4. Add Wet to Dry
Pour the wet mixture into the dry bowl. Use a spatula to fold the batter gently until it just comes together. Don’t worry about small lumps they’ll smooth out in the next step. Overmixing can create a dense cake, so resist the urge to stir too long.

5. Add Hot Coffee
Slowly pour in one cup of hot brewed coffee. The batter will thin out considerably, but that’s the magic of this recipe. The coffee deepens the cocoa flavor, creating a richer, more intense chocolate taste without any noticeable coffee flavor. Stir gently until everything blends into a smooth, pourable batter.
6. Bake the Layers
Divide the batter evenly into your prepared pans. Smooth the tops for even baking. Place them in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. Check around the 28-minute mark with a toothpick — if it comes out clean or with moist crumbs, they’re ready. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling keeps the structure firm and prevents breakage.
7. Make the Ganache
While the cakes cool, prepare the ganache. Add the chopped chocolate to a heatproof bowl. Warm the heavy cream in a saucepan until it just begins to simmer, then pour it over the chocolate. Let it sit for 5 minutes before stirring. Whisk until smooth and glossy, then add butter for that extra shine. If the ganache looks runny, let it rest for 10–15 minutes to thicken.
8. Assemble the Cake
Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous layer of ganache across the top, then place the second cake layer on top. Press gently to secure. Apply a thin crumb coat of ganache over the entire cake, chill it briefly, then finish with a second, thicker layer. Let the ganache drip naturally down the sides for that glossy viral look.
9. Decorate with Flair
Finish by decorating however you like. Go simple with chocolate curls or go luxe with pistachios and edible gold leaf. A dusting of cocoa powder also adds a polished touch. In true Dubai fashion, the final look should feel bold, rich, and inviting.
Tips for the Best Viral Dubai Chocolate Cake
- Always use room-temperature eggs and buttermilk for a smoother batter.
- Don’t skip the coffee it won’t make your cake taste like coffee, but it intensifies the chocolate flavor.
- Chill the cake slightly before slicing so the ganache firms up, giving you cleaner cuts.
- Use high-quality chocolate for the ganache. The better the chocolate, the more luxurious the finish.

Storing and Freezing
Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving to soften the ganache.
If you’d like to freeze it, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or leave at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this cake without coffee?
Yes, replace the coffee with hot water. The cake won’t have the same depth, but it will still taste delicious.
Q: Can I use milk chocolate for the ganache?
You can, but it will taste sweeter. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate keeps the balance better.
Q: How can I make this cake look more like the viral version?
Pour the ganache when it’s slightly warm so it drips beautifully. Add edible gold or glitter for that signature Dubai shine.
Q: Can I bake this as a sheet cake instead of layers?
Yes, just pour the batter into a 9×13 pan and adjust baking time. It won’t look as tall but will taste the same.
Q: What makes this different from a standard chocolate cake?
The combination of buttermilk, hot coffee, and rich ganache makes it softer, deeper, and more indulgent. The presentation style also sets it apart.
Q: Can I prepare the cake in advance?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead, wrap tightly, and assemble with ganache the next day.
Final Thoughts
The Viral Dubai Chocolate Cake isn’t just another dessert; it’s an experience. From the glossy ganache to the tender crumb, every slice delivers richness and comfort. It’s easy enough for home bakers yet looks extravagant enough for celebrations.
Whether you’re making it for family, friends, or a party this cake will leave a lasting impression. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and treat yourself to the dessert that has captured so many hearts.