If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that dazzles with rich flavor and a delicate balance of textures, this Chocolate Pistachio Cheesecake (Dubai Style) Recipe is going to steal your heart. Combining the creamy indulgence of cheesecake with the nutty allure of pistachios and the luxurious depth of chocolate, this recipe brings together a delightful mix of ingredients that not only taste fantastic but also create a beautiful presentation perfect for any celebration or cozy gathering. Whether you’re a cheesecake lover or just seeking something uniquely delightful to impress your guests, this recipe has your name on it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, this Chocolate Pistachio Cheesecake (Dubai Style) Recipe calls for a handful of ingredients that are easy to find yet crucial in creating the perfect harmony of flavors, creaminess, and a hint of nutty sweetness. Every component, from Oreos to pistachio butter and white chocolate, plays a role in crafting that unforgettable taste and luxurious texture.
- 34 Oreo cookies: These form the crunchy, chocolaty crust base, but gluten-free Oreos work beautifully as well.
- 3 oz butter: Melted butter binds the cookie crumbs into a firm, buttery crust.
- 21 oz cream cheese spread: At room temperature for smooth blending, this is the creamy heart of the cheesecake.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness, with an option to increase slightly for extra indulgence.
- 1 pinch salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the filling.
- 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon: Just a hint to bring subtle spice undertones.
- 1 teaspoon matcha green tea (optional): For a stunning hint of color and an earthy note.
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds brightness and a fresh citrus aroma.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Enhances the overall tanginess,为balance richness.
- 6 drops almond extract: Contributes a delicate nutty aroma—adjust to taste.
- 120 grams heavy whipping cream (35% fat): Whipped in to create lightness and smooth texture.
- 1 cup natural pistachio butter: The star nutty flavor that gives this cheesecake its unique Dubai-style flair.
- 6 oz white chocolate (chopped): Melts smoothly into the filling for sweet, velvety richness.
- 3 medium eggs: At room temperature, these bind the filling, giving it structure without heaviness.
- 1/3 cup heavy cream (35% fat): Used in the chocolate topping for creamy gloss and silkiness.
- 2.3 oz dark chocolate (chopped): Creates the bittersweet finish in the luscious topping.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Adds shine and natural sweetness to the chocolate glaze.
- 3 tablespoons chopped pistachios (optional): For a crunchy garnish that enhances both texture and appearance.
How to Make Chocolate Pistachio Cheesecake (Dubai Style) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Crust
Begin by crushing the Oreo cookies—yes, including the creamy filling! Use a food processor for a fine crumb or place them in a bag and crush with a rolling pin. This mixture creates the perfect chocolate base that’s both crisp and flavorful. Melt the butter in a small pot, then mix it thoroughly with the cookie crumbs. The warmth helps bind the cookies and gives the crust a deliciously buttery taste once baked.
Step 2: Form the Crust in the Pan
Line a 9 or 10-inch baking pan with parchment paper to make removal smoother, unless you’re using a springform pan. Transfer the cookie and butter mix into the pan, pressing firmly along the bottom and sides. Use the back of a spoon first, then a flat-bottomed tumbler to smooth it evenly. This crust will hold the luscious filling later, so take the time to press it well and create a sturdy base.
Step 3: Mix the Pistachio Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, salt, vanilla, cinnamon, matcha (if using), lemon zest, lemon juice, and almond extract until silky smooth. Add the heavy cream and continue beating until combined. Meanwhile, gently melt the pistachio butter and white chocolate together in a pot over medium heat or carefully in the microwave. Incorporate this nutty, sweet mixture into the cream cheese blend. This step ensures that every bite sings of pistachio richness with a velvety white chocolate finish.
Step 4: Add Eggs Carefully
Add the eggs one at a time into the filling, mixing just until combined each time. Be gentle here—overmixing adds unwanted air bubbles that might cause cracks in your cheesecake. Once combined, scrape the bottom of the bowl with a spatula to make sure everything is evenly mixed.
Step 5: Bake with a Water Bath
Pour the creamy pistachio filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top. Place your cheesecake pan into a larger pan and pour boiling water about 1 1/2 inches high around it to create a water bath. Bake at 330°F (165°C) for around 70 minutes. The cheesecake is ready when the edges are firm but the center slightly jiggles when you gently shake the pan. This gentle cooking ensures a smooth, crack-free finish, typical of a gorgeous Dubai-style cheesecake.
Step 6: Chill Overnight
Let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. This resting period lets the flavors deepen and the texture set perfectly. When ready, unmold it carefully from the pan to reveal a beautifully structured and creamy masterpiece.
Step 7: Prepare the Chocolate Topping
Melt the heavy cream and dark chocolate together, either on the stove or in the microwave. Stir in the honey until the mix is luxuriously smooth and glossy. Pour this warm ganache over the chilled cheesecake, tilting the pan gently to let the chocolate cascade evenly over the surface and sides. For added texture and glamour, sprinkle chopped pistachios over the top before the chocolate sets.
How to Serve Chocolate Pistachio Cheesecake (Dubai Style) Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped pistachios or even a light dusting of matcha powder for a pop of vibrant color. A drizzle of melted white or dark chocolate enhances the look, while edible gold flakes add a glamorous Dubai-style touch. Fresh mint leaves can provide a refreshing and fragrant sparkle that compliments the nutty flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve slices of this rich cheesecake with sides like fresh berries or a small bowl of chilled custard. Light sides like a citrus sorbet or a dollop of whipped cream jazzed up with a hint of almond extract make perfect companions, balancing the dessert’s richness with refreshing contrasts.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving mini individual cheesecakes in ramekins for an elegant touch or layering slices with alternating pieces of rich dark chocolate or pistachio brittle on a dessert platter. Another fun idea is to plate each portion with a drizzle of pistachio butter sauce and a sprinkle of crushed Oreos to echo the crust, giving your presentation both flair and harmony.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making it an excellent make-ahead treat that keeps well without losing any charm.
Freezing
You can freeze the cheesecake before adding the chocolate topping by wrapping it carefully in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to a month. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and add the chocolate glaze right before presenting for the freshest taste and texture.
Reheating
This cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving. This will enhance the creamy richness without compromising the integrity of the dessert.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?
While pistachios give this cheesecake its signature flavor and color, you can experiment with almond butter or hazelnut paste for a different but still delicious twist. Just keep in mind it will no longer be the authentic Chocolate Pistachio Cheesecake (Dubai Style) Recipe you love!
Is it necessary to use a water bath while baking?
Yes, the water bath helps maintain gentle, even heat around the cheesecake, preventing cracking and ensuring the silky smooth texture that is a hallmark of this style of cheesecake.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Simply swap regular Oreos for gluten-free Oreo cookies to keep the crust just as delicious while catering to dietary needs.
What if I don’t have pistachio butter?
If you can’t find pistachio butter, try making your own by blending shelled pistachios with a small amount of neutral oil until smooth. This maintains the authentic flavor and creamy consistency essential to the recipe.
Can I prepare this without white chocolate?
White chocolate adds sweetness and smoothness to the filling, but if needed, you can reduce it or substitute with an equal amount of cream or mascarpone to keep the texture lovely. The taste will be slightly different but still delightful.
Final Thoughts
Making this Chocolate Pistachio Cheesecake (Dubai Style) Recipe is like inviting a slice of Dubai’s culinary magic right into your home kitchen. Its luscious, creamy texture paired with the satisfying crunch of a chocolate crust and nutty pistachio goodness creates a dessert experience you’ll want to share again and again. So gather your ingredients, and give yourself the joy of creating this stunning, irresistible cheesecake—it will surely become a treasured favorite.
PrintChocolate Pistachio Cheesecake (Dubai Style) Recipe
This delightful Chocolate Pistachio Cheesecake combines a rich Oreo cookie crust with a creamy pistachio-infused cheesecake filling, topped with a luscious chocolate glaze. Inspired by Dubai-style flavors, it’s a perfect blend of nutty, sweet, and tangy elements with a hint of almond and matcha for color. Ideal for dessert lovers looking for an elegant yet indulgent treat.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 40 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 14 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Dubai / Middle Eastern-inspired
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Crust
- 34 Oreo cookies (gluten-free Oreos also work)
- 3 oz butter (approximately 2/3 cup + 1 tablespoon)
For the Pistachio Filling
- 21 oz cream cheese spread (at room temperature)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (add 2 more tablespoons if you have a sweet tooth)
- 1 pinch salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon matcha green tea powder (optional, for color)
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 6 drops almond extract
- 120 grams heavy whipping cream (35% fat)
- 1 cup natural pistachio butter
- 6 oz white chocolate (chopped)
- 3 medium eggs (at room temperature)
For the Chocolate Topping
- 1/3 cup heavy cream (35% fat)
- 2.3 oz dark chocolate (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 3 tablespoons chopped pistachios (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate Crust: Transfer the Oreo cookies, including their filling, into a food processor and pulse until you achieve fine crumbs. Alternatively, place the cookies inside a sealed bag and crush them using a rolling pin.
- Melt Butter & Combine: Melt the butter in a small pot over low heat. Add the cookie crumbs to the melted butter and stir until fully combined, allowing the heat to help melt the cookie filling.
- Form Crust in Pan: Line the bottom and sides of a 9 or 10-inch baking pan with parchment paper (unless using a springform pan). Press the cookie mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of the pan using the back of a spoon, then use a flat-bottomed tumbler to smooth and compact the crust further.
- Prepare Pistachio Filling: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, cinnamon, matcha powder (if using), lemon zest, lemon juice, and almond extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Then add the heavy whipping cream and beat until fully incorporated.
- Melt Pistachio Butter & White Chocolate: In a small pot over medium heat or in a microwave, melt the pistachio butter and white chocolate together. Once melted, mix this blend into the cream cheese mixture thoroughly. At this point, preheat the oven to 330°F (165°C) and bring water to a boil in a medium pot for the water bath.
- Add Eggs Carefully: Add the eggs one at a time to the filling, mixing gently just until combined after each addition. Use a spatula to scrape the bowl bottom once or twice. Avoid overmixing to prevent air bubbles which can cause cracks during baking.
- Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the pistachio cheesecake batter over the prepared crust and smooth the top evenly.
- Prepare Water Bath & Bake: Place the filled baking pan into a larger baking pan and carefully pour boiling water into the larger pan until it reaches about 1.5 inches high. Bake at 330°F (165°C) for approximately 70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
- Cool & Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to set properly. When ready, unmold the cheesecake and transfer it to a serving plate.
- Prepare Chocolate Topping: In a small pot or heatproof bowl, gently melt the heavy cream and dark chocolate over low heat or in short microwave bursts. Stir in the honey until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Glaze the Cheesecake: Pour a thin layer of the warm chocolate topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Tilt the cheesecake gently to spread the glaze, allowing some to drizzle naturally down the sides. Optionally, sprinkle chopped pistachios on top for garnish.
Notes
- Using room temperature eggs and cream cheese helps ensure a smooth batter and prevents lumps.
- Do not overmix the cheesecake batter to avoid cracks during baking caused by excess air.
- If using a springform pan, unmolding is easier by releasing the pan sides carefully after the cheesecake is fully chilled.
- The water bath (bain-marie) is essential for even baking and to prevent the cheesecake from drying or cracking.
- The optional matcha powder adds a subtle green hue and a mild earthy flavor, but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Pistachio butter can be homemade by grinding pistachios until smooth or bought pre-made.
- Adjust sugar levels according to your sweetness preference; the recipe allows an increase for a sweeter cheesecake.
