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Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake

A rich and creamy dessert that combines chocolate and pistachio in a delightful cheesecake, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Middle Eastern
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 2 1/4 cups kataifi (shredded phyllo dough)
  • 3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs (3 ounces)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios (plus more for garnish)
  • 1/3 cup butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup sugar
For the filling
  • 6 ounces milk chocolate, chopped
  • 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 1/3 cups heavy whipping cream, divided
  • 1 cup pistachio cream
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 1/4 cups white chocolate chips
  • 2 packages cream cheese, at room temperature (8-ounce each)
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the kataifi on a 10x15-inch rimmed baking sheet and toast for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden. Let cool for 15 minutes.
  2. In a bowl, mix 3/4 cup of toasted kataifi, graham cracker crumbs, chopped pistachios, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until golden, then reduce oven temperature to 325°F (163°C).
  3. Whisk together 1 cup of whipping cream, 1 cup of pistachio cream, and tahini until smooth.
  4. In a small bowl, combine white chocolate chips and remaining 1/3 cup of whipping cream; microwave until melted (1 to 2 minutes) and let cool slightly.
  5. Beat cream cheese and 1/4 cup sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth. Add eggs one at a time and beat after each addition, then mix in white chocolate mixture and vanilla extract.
Baking
  1. Pour half of the cream cheese mixture into the crust, then top with the pistachio cream mixture, and finally pour the rest of the cream cheese mixture on top. Use a spatula or toothpick to swirl gently.
  2. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes until edges are set. Turn off the oven, leave the door ajar, and let cheesecake cool to room temperature for about an hour. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Topping
  1. Combine remaining pistachio cream, tahini, and kataifi. Spread over the cooled cheesecake. Melt milk chocolate and remaining whipping cream in the microwave (1 to 2 minutes) and pour over cheesecake, spreading evenly.
  2. Chill in the pan for at least an hour or up to four days before serving. Garnish with extra pistachios, slice, and serve.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing. Adding a touch of espresso powder enhances flavor. Chilling overnight is crucial for blending flavors. Try various toppings like sea salt or caramel for a twist!