Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe – European Special

Indulge in the rich, velvety delight of Chocolate Mousse Cake, a luxurious dessert that combines a light, airy mousse with a decadent chocolate cake base. This showstopper is perfect for celebrations or as a special treat for chocolate lovers. With its luscious texture and intense flavor, this cake is sure to impress at any gathering!

  • Prep Time1 hr
  • Cook Time25 min
  • Perform Time6 hr 40 min
  • Total Time8 hr 5 min

For the Chocolate Cake:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk

For the Chocolate Mousse:

  • 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 large eggs, separated
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup heavy cream

For Garnish:

  • Whipped cream (optional)
  • Chocolate shavings or curls (optional)
  • Fresh berries (optional)

Bake the Chocolate Cake:

1

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.

2

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, cream the butter until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla and buttermilk.

4

Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

5

Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.

Prepare the Chocolate Mousse:

6

Melt Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl over simmering water, melt the chopped chocolate and butter together until smooth.

7

Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

8

Whip Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar until pale and thick. Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture and stir until combined.

9

Beat Egg Whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gently fold them into the chocolate mixture.

10

Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until fully combined.

Assemble the Cake:

11

Layer the Cake: Place the cooled chocolate cake on a serving plate. Pour the chocolate mousse over the top, spreading it evenly.

12

Chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the mousse to set.

Serve:

13

Garnish: Before serving, decorate with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries if desired.

Recipe Notes:

Chocolate Quality: Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.

Storage: The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep covered to maintain freshness.

Make Ahead: This cake is ideal for making ahead, as the flavors deepen when chilled overnight.