Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake

Decadent Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake 🍫🍰

If you’re a chocolate lover, then this Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake is a dream come true. It’s rich, indulgent, and layered with velvety chocolate mousse that takes this dessert to another level. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how you can create this chocolate masterpiece.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups (219g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• ¾ cup (62g) unsweetened natural cocoa powder
• 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tsp espresso powder (optional)
• ½ cup (120ml) canola or vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• ¾ cup (180g) full-fat sour cream, at room temperature
• ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120ml) hot water or coffee
• Optional: 1 cup (180g) mini or regular semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Optional garnish: fresh berries and/or chocolate shavings

For the Chocolate Mousse:

• ½ cup (120ml) hot water
• ¼ cup (22g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• Two 4-ounce quality semi-sweet chocolate bars (113g each), finely chopped
• 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream or heavy whipping cream
• 2 Tbsp (15g) confectioners’ sugar
• ½ tsp pure vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• Two 4-ounce quality semi-sweet chocolate bars (113g each), finely chopped
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or heavy whipping cream

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease four 8-inch or 9-inch cake pans, line with parchment paper rounds, and then grease the parchment paper as well. This will ensure your cake layers come out cleanly. 🧽

2️⃣ Prepare the cake batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder (if using). In another bowl, mix the oil, eggs, and sour cream together on medium-high speed until combined. Then add the buttermilk and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, add the hot water or coffee, and whisk or beat on low speed until the batter is completely combined. If you like extra chocolate, fold in the chocolate chips at this stage. 🍫

3️⃣ Bake the cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 19-23 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool completely in their pans on a wire rack. 🕰️

4️⃣ Prepare the chocolate mousse: To make the mousse, whisk the hot water and cocoa powder together. Melt the chopped chocolate bars in a double boiler or microwave until smooth. Pour the hot water and cocoa mixture into the melted chocolate, stirring until thick and smooth. In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to whip the heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract until medium peaks form. Gently fold in the chocolate mixture. Chill the mousse in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or up to 2 days. 🍫❄️

5️⃣ Assemble the cake layers: If necessary, level the cakes so they are flat. Place one cake layer on your cake stand and evenly cover the top with about 1.5 cups of the chocolate mousse. Repeat with the second and third layers. Top with the final fourth cake layer, then spread any remaining mousse around the sides of the cake as a crumb coat. Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours. 🍰

6️⃣ Prepare the ganache: Place the chopped chocolate in a medium heat-proof bowl. Heat the cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to gently simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes before stirring until smooth. Allow the ganache to cool for 20 minutes at room temperature before using. 🍫

7️⃣ Finish the cake: Pour or spoon the ganache over the chilled cake, smoothing the top and sides with an icing spatula. If desired, top with fresh berries and/or chocolate shavings. You can serve the cake immediately, or chill it for another 4-6 hours before serving for an even more set and rich texture. 🍓🍫

8️⃣ Storage: Any leftover cake should be covered tightly and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature for the perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience. 🍰❄️

Prep Time: 30min | Cooking Time: 20-25min | Total Time: 55min

Kcal: Approx. 450 Kcal per serving | Servings: 12 servings

This Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake is a luxurious treat that’s sure to impress everyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is both approachable and rewarding, making it a must-try for any chocolate enthusiast. Enjoy! 🍫🍰