Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe

If you’re a chocolate lover, then the Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake is the perfect dessert for you! This rich and creamy cake has a soft texture and intense chocolate flavor that will please anyone with a sweet tooth. It’s impressive enough for special occasions but is simple enough to make at home any day.

Why Make This Recipe

There are so many reasons to make this Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake. First, it combines the smoothness of chocolate mousse with the soft, moist layers of cake. It’s a delight to eat and looks beautiful as a centerpiece. Whether you are celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or just want to treat yourself, this cake will bring joy to everyone who tries it. Plus, making this dessert gives you the satisfaction of creating something wonderful from scratch!

How to Make Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake

Making a Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake may seem challenging, but with these straightforward steps, you’ll find it’s quite simple. Below is how to create this delicious dessert from start to finish.

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 large egg (room temperature)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup hot water
8 oz dark chocolate (finely chopped)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup heavy cream (divided)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 large egg yolks (room temperature)
1/2 cup heavy cream for ganache
4 oz dark chocolate for ganache (finely chopped)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, oil, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until well combined.
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth. It will be thin.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and butter. Set the bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and granulated sugar until thick and pale.
Gradually whisk in 1/4 cup of the heavy cream until smooth.
Slowly pour the egg yolk mixture into the melted chocolate, stirring constantly until well combined. Let it cool to room temperature.
In another bowl, beat the remaining heavy cream to soft peaks.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until smooth and well combined.
Chill the mousse in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Once the cake has cooled completely, place it on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of the dark chocolate mousse evenly over the top of the cake. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to set.
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring it over the mousse layer. Spread the ganache evenly over the mousse-topped cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

How to Serve Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake

When serving the Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake, you can slice it into generous pieces and enjoy it as is. For an extra touch, consider topping each slice with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This cake pairs beautifully with coffee or a glass of milk.

How to Store Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake

To keep your Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake fresh, store it in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can last for about 3-4 days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the cake (without ganache) for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap it well!

Tips to Make Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake

Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.
Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Be gentle when folding the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture to maintain the lightness of the mousse.
Allow the cake to cool completely before layering the mousse to prevent melting.

Variation

If you want to add a twist to the cake, consider adding a hint of espresso powder to the batter for a mocha flavor. You can also try different toppings, like crushed nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce, to give the cake a unique touch.

FAQs

1. Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can make your own buttermilk by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

2. Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day ahead, and store it in the fridge until you are ready to add the mousse and ganache.

3. Is there a way to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Just ensure the remaining ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Enjoy making and savoring this delectable Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake!