Copycat Costco Dubai Chocolate Cake Recipe

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There’s no denying it—Costco desserts have a cult following, and for good reason! When the Costco Dubai Chocolate Cake hit the shelves, it didn’t take long for dedicated foodies (myself included!) to fall head over heels for its rich layers, indulgent flavors, and jaw-dropping presentation.

How to make Costco Dubai Chocolate Cake

Costco Dubai Chocolate Cake — also known simply as Costco Dubai Chocolate Cake — is a bakery item inspired by the viral “Dubai chocolate” trend.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake Layers

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed for a richer taste)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) boiling water with 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules (optional, to enhance the chocolate flavor)

For the Chocolate Frosting

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 3 ½ cups (400g) powdered sugar
• ½ cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream (plus extra if needed for consistency)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Optional Garnishes and Layers

• Dark chocolate shavings
• Gold edible glitter or flakes (to mimic the luxury aesthetic of the Dubai-inspired cake)
• Chocolate ganache drizzle (made with 100g dark chocolate and 100ml heavy cream)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two or three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Use a hand mixer (or whisk) to combine until smooth.
4. Slowly pour in the boiling water (with dissolved instant coffee) and mix on low speed. The batter will be thin; this is normal.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the butter with an electric mixer until it is light and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed.
3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then mix on medium-high speed until the frosting is fluffy and smooth. If the consistency is too thick, add a teaspoon of cream at a time.
4. Add a small pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Level each cake layer with a serrated knife or a cake leveler, ensuring flat and even layers.
2. Place the first layer on a cake board or serving plate. Spread a generous amount of chocolate frosting evenly over the top.
3. Add the second layer and repeat the process. For a three-layer cake, add the final layer and spread frosting over the top as well.
4. Frost the sides of the cake, using a bench scraper or spatula for a smooth finish.

Step 4: Add Finishing Touches

1. For an extra luxurious finish, drizzle a chocolate ganache (optional) over the edges of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
2. Decorate the top with dark chocolate shavings and sprinkle edible gold glitter or flakes to give the cake a Dubai-inspired, elegant look.
3. Chill the cake for 30 minutes before slicing, allowing the frosting to set.

Tips for Success

• Enhance the Chocolate Flavor: The addition of instant coffee to the water intensifies the flavor of the chocolate without making the cake taste like coffee.
• Don’t Skip Leveling: Ensuring even cake layers makes the final product more visually appealing and stable.
• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Room-temperature butter, eggs, and milk ensure a smoother batter and frosting.
• Customize Decorations: Add your personality to the presentation—whether it’s edible gold, chocolate curls, or even gold-dusted macarons!
• Plan Ahead: Bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped tightly in plastic for easier frosting and assembly.

What to serve with

The Costco Dubai Chocolate Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides, drinks, and garnishes can elevate the experience even further.

A. Coffee-Based Beverages

Chocolate and coffee are a match made in heaven! The slight bitterness of coffee balances the sweet richness of the Costco Dubai Chocolate Cake.

• Espresso: The intense flavor of an espresso shot cuts through the heaviness of the Costco Dubai Chocolate Cake and refreshes the palate.
• Latte or Cappuccino: Creamy coffee drinks like lattes or cappuccinos go well with the cake’s frosting, adding a luxurious pairing.
• Mocha: The combination of coffee and chocolate mirrors the flavors in the cake for a perfectly harmonious pairing.

B. Teas

For tea lovers, choose varieties that complement the chocolate flavor without overwhelming it.

• Earl Grey: The hint of bergamot in Earl Grey adds a citrusy undertone that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s richness.
• Chai Tea: The spices in chai (cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves) provide warmth that enhances the dessert’s decadent notes.
• Peppermint Tea: A refreshing mint flavor cleanses the palate between bites, keeping the cake from feeling too heavy.

C. Wine and Spirits

For a more sophisticated dessert experience, pair the cake with a glass of dessert wine or spirit.

• Port Wine or Sweet Red Wine: A rich, sweet wine complements the chocolate perfectly.
• Baileys Irish Cream: Serve it on the rocks or drizzle it lightly over the cake for a boozy, creamy finish.
• Dark Rum or Brandy: These spirits add a warming depth of flavor when enjoyed alongside the Costco Dubai Chocolate Cake.

Ingredients Substitutes

Making the Costco Dubai Chocolate Cake at home is an exciting project, but sometimes, you may need to make ingredient substitutions based on availability, dietary preferences, or simply to cater to your unique tastes.

Ingredient Substitutes for the Cake Layers

1. All-Purpose Flour

If you don’t have all-purpose flour or want a different option:

• Substitute with Cake Flour: For a lighter, more delicate crumb, use an equal amount of cake flour.
• For Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend (like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur). Make sure it includes xanthan gum or guar gum for structure.
• Whole Wheat Flour: If you want a slightly nuttier flavor, use 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1 cup whole wheat flour, as replacing all the flour with whole wheat might make the cake too dense.

2. Granulated Sugar

If you need to replace granulated sugar:

• Brown Sugar: Use an equal amount of light or dark brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
• Coconut Sugar: Swap in coconut sugar for a slightly caramel-like taste and a natural sweetener option.
• Sugar-Free Option: Use erythritol (like Swerve) or a monk fruit-based sweetener for a lower-calorie alternative. Note: This may slightly alter the texture.

3. Cocoa Powder

The unsweetened cocoa powder gives the cake its rich chocolate flavor, but:

• Dutch-Processed Cocoa: If you want a smoother, less bitter chocolate flavor, Dutch-processed cocoa is an excellent alternative.
• Carob Powder: For a caffeine-free option or for those with chocolate allergies, replace cocoa powder with carob powder in a 1:1 ratio.

4. Eggs

For an eggless version or if you’re out of eggs:

• Flax Eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons water for each egg. Let sit for 5 minutes.
• Unsweetened Applesauce: Use 1/4 cup applesauce per egg. This works best for moisture but may result in a slightly denser cake.
• Mashed Bananas: 1/4 cup mashed bananas per egg acts as a binder and adds natural sweetness. Be prepared for a mild banana flavor.

5. Milk

For non-dairy or another substitute:

• Plant-Based Milk: Almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk (unsweetened) work well in a 1:1 ratio.
• Buttermilk Alternative: If buttermilk is required, combine 1 cup plant-based milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
• Evaporated Milk: Use evaporated milk diluted with an equal part of water.

6. Vegetable Oil

If you want an alternative to vegetable oil:

• Melted Coconut Oil: Replace in a 1:1 ratio. Note that it will solidify if the mixture is cooler than room temperature.
• Butter: Use melted unsalted butter for a richer flavor.
• Applesauce or Yogurt (for a lighter option): Replace up to half the oil with unsweetened applesauce or plain yogurt. This reduces fat content but can result in slightly denser cake layers.

7. Boiling Water with Instant Coffee

If coffee isn’t an option or preferred:

• Hot Milk: Replace boiling water with hot milk for a more neutral flavor.
• Hot Water Only: If you want to skip the coffee, plain boiling water is just fine.
• Decaf Coffee: Use decaffeinated coffee if you prefer to avoid caffeine while still enhancing the chocolate flavor.

Ingredient Substitutes for the Chocolate Frosting

1. Butter

Butter gives the frosting a rich, creamy texture. If you need a substitute:

• Plant-Based Butter: Use a vegan butter or margarine for a dairy-free alternative. Look for one designed for baking, as some margarines are too soft.
• Coconut Oil or Shortening: In frosting, coconut oil or vegetable shortening can mimic butter’s texture, but the taste will be slightly different.

2. Powdered Sugar

Powdered sugar creates a smooth and sweet base for frosting. Substitutes include:

• Granulated Sugar (Blended): Blend 1 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon cornstarch in a high-powered blender until finely powdered.
• Coconut Sugar (Blended): Blend coconut sugar until powdered as a natural, less processed sugar option.

3. Heavy Cream

If heavy cream isn’t available:

• Milk: Use whole milk instead, but gradually reduce the amount to avoid a runny texture.
• Non-Dairy Whipping Cream: Plant-based whipping creams work just as well. Coconut cream is also a great dairy-free option.

4. Unsweetened Cocoa Powder

Like with the cake, you can replace regular cocoa powder with Dutch-processed cocoa, carob powder, or omit it entirely for a vanilla buttercream frosting.

5. Vanilla Extract

For alternatives to vanilla extract:

• Almond Extract: Substitute half the amount for an aromatic twist.
• Other Extracts: Orange, rum, or coconut extract can add a unique flavor profile.
• Vanilla Bean Paste: Use vanilla bean paste or seeds from one vanilla pod for a more intense flavor.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to serving the Costco Dubai Chocolate Cake, the key is balance. The cake is rich and decadent, so light, complementary sides and beverages enhance the experience without overwhelming it.

More Chocolate Recipes:

• Nestle Toll House Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips Recipe
• Copycat Dunkin’ Mint Chocolate Chip Coffee Recipe