Decadent Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake Cups

Craving something luxurious and indulgent? These Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake Cups are the perfect treat. Layers of crunchy kadayif, rich pistachio spread, and velvety cheesecake filling meet a luscious dark chocolate ganache in this decadent dessert.

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About This Recipe

Dubai Chocolate has taken the dessert world by storm, and for good reason. Inspired by the luxurious flavors of the Middle East, this dessert fuses traditional ingredients like kadayif (shredded phyllo dough) and pistachio spread with creamy cheesecake and dark chocolate ganache. The result? A layered masterpiece that’s rich, crunchy, and oh-so-satisfying.

This recipe brings together the irresistible flavors of pistachios and tahini, paired with silky cheesecake and the depth of dark chocolate. It’s the perfect dessert for celebrations, special occasions, or whenever you want to treat yourself. Plus, the individual cup portions make for an eye-catching dessert that’s great for sharing or gifting.

Why should you try this recipe? Because it’s indulgent yet simple to make! Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, these cheesecake cups come together easily, and the layering process is fun and rewarding. One bite will transport you to the flavors of Dubai, making it hard to stop at just one.

What You Need To Make This Recipe

Step-by-Step: How to Make Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake Cups

Step 1: Prepare the kadayif layer:

If you’re toasting your own kadayif, add butter in a saucepan. Toss raw kadayif in the butter and toast over medium heat until golden and crispy. Let cool.
Combine the toasted kadayif with pistachio spread and tahini. Mix until the kadayif is fully coated. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the ganache:

Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just starts to simmer.
Pour the hot cream over the finely chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes.
Stir the mixture until smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the cheesecake filling:

In a large bowl, whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form (about 5 minutes).
Add the softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, and pistachio spread. Beat until the mixture is creamy and smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the cups:

Start with a layer of the kadayif mixture at the bottom of each cup.
Add a layer of the cheesecake filling.
Drizzle or spoon over the dark chocolate ganache.
Repeat the layers until the cup is full.
Top with chopped pistachios or extra toasted kadayif for garnish. Chill for 30 min – 1 hour, then enjoy!

How to Store Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake Cups

To keep these cheesecake cups fresh and delicious, store them in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 days. If you need to prepare them ahead of time, the layers stay well without losing texture. For the best taste and texture, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. Keep in mind that the kadayif may start to to become soft after 2 days.

Pro Tips

Consistency matters: If your pistachio spread is too thick, microwave it for 10 seconds to soften it. This will make layering easier.
Toast kadayif evenly: If you’re toasting your own kadayif, make sure to stir continuously while toasting to avoid burning. It should turn a light golden brown.
Chill the ganache: Let the ganache cool slightly before layering to avoid melting the cheesecake filling.
Extra crunch: Add chopped pistachios between layers for extra texture.

dubai chocolate cheesecake cups 2 — Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake Cups

FAQ’s

Can I use pre-toasted kadayif?

Yes! That’s exactly what I did! It saves so much time and effort! Just skip the toasting step and proceed with mixing the kadayif with pistachio spread and tahini.

What if I don’t have pistachio spread?

You can substitute with almond or hazelnut spread, but pistachio offers the most authentic flavor.

How long does ganache take to set?

The ganache will set as the cups chill in the fridge. It should thicken but remain soft and glossy.

Can I freeze them?

Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the cheesecake layer.

dubai chocolate cheesecake cups 4 — Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake Cups

These Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake Cups are rich, indulgent, and bursting with flavor. A true showstopper for any dessert table! If you love cup and layered desserts like this, try out my Tiramisu Cups! It’s one of my most popular recipes! Or maybe you’ll like my Classic Banana Pudding, did mention all these recipes are no-bake?

Check out my YouTube Channel for detailed recipe tutorials! Made one of my recipes? Tag me on Instagram, I would love to see your creations!

Recipe Card

Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake Cups

Prep Time: 25 min

Cook Time: 0 min (10 min if you’re toasting your own kadayif)

Chill Time: 1 hr.

Total Time: 1 hrs. 25 min

Course: Dessert

Servings: 6 cups

Calories: 685kcal

Ingredients

For the kadayif layer:

200g kadayif, toasted (or 200g kadayif + 70g butter)
6 tbsp pistachio spread
1 tbsp tahini

For the cheesecake filling:

400g cream cheese (1 3/4 cup)
120ml heavy cream (1/2 cup)
¼ cup + 2 tbsp powdered sugar (45g)
¼ tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp pistachio spread

For the ganache:

120g dark chocolate, finely chopped
120ml heavy cream (1/2 cup)

Equipment/Utensils

1 Large bowl
1 Medium bowl
Small saucepan
Heatproof bowl
Electric hand/stand mixer or whisk
Cups for assembly
Spatulas and spoons

Instructions

Prepare the kadayif layer:

If you’re toasting your own kadayif, add butter in a saucepan placed on medium flame. Toss raw kadayif in the butter and toast over medium heat until golden and crispy. Let cool.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the toasted kadayif with pistachio spread and tahini. Mix until the kadayif is fully coated, if needed you can add more pistachio spread. Set aside.

Make the ganache:

Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just starts to simmer.
Pour the hot cream over the finely chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes.
Stir the mixture until smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the cheesecake filling:

In a large bowl, whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form (about 5 minutes).
Add the softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, and 2 tbsp pistachio spread. Beat until the mixture is creamy and smooth.

Assemble the cups:

Start with a layer of the kadayif mixture at the bottom of each cup.
Add a layer of the cheesecake filling.
Drizzle or spoon over the dark chocolate ganache.
Repeat the layers until the cup is full.
Top with chopped pistachios or extra toasted kadayif for garnish.

Chill:

Place the assembled cups in the fridge for at least 1 hour to set. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 684.65kcal

Total Fat: 51.19g

Carbs: 48.39g

Sugars: 37.62g

Protein: 11.45g

Sodium: 289.86mg

Fiber: 4.39g

** Nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered an estimate only. Actual nutritional content will vary based upon brands used, measuring methods, cooking method, portion sizes, and more. **