Chocolate Mousse Cake

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Description: This Chocolate Mousse Cake is a rich, decadent dessert that combines layers of soft, moist chocolate cake and velvety chocolate mousse. The mousse is light and airy, providing a perfect contrast to the dense and indulgent chocolate cake. Topped with a glossy chocolate ganache, this cake is a chocolate lover’s dream and an elegant dessert for any special occasion or celebration.

Origin: The concept of chocolate mousse dates back to France, where mousse, meaning “foam” in French, was traditionally made with chocolate, eggs, and cream. Combining mousse with cake creates a luxurious, layered dessert that’s popular in European and American fine dining.

Ingredients (for 8-10 servings):

For the Chocolate Cake:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup boiling water

For the Chocolate Mousse:

  • 8 oz semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 6 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottom of two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the chocolate cake: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Gradually add the boiling water, mixing until smooth. The batter will be thin.
  3. Bake the cake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  4. Make the chocolate mousse: In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped semisweet chocolate over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals. Once melted, allow it to cool slightly. In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the cooled melted chocolate and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
  5. Prepare the ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer (do not boil). Remove from the heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and the ganache is smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly before using.
  6. Assemble the cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer of cake on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of chocolate mousse over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and gently press down. Spread the remaining mousse over the top of the cake.
  7. Top with ganache: Pour the slightly cooled chocolate ganache over the top of the mousse layer, allowing it to drip down the sides. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even finish.
  8. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to set the mousse and ganache. Before serving, garnish with chocolate shavings or berries, if desired.
  9. Serve: Slice the cake and serve chilled for a rich, indulgent dessert experience.

Tips for Success:

  • Cake texture: To make sure your cake is perfectly moist, do not overmix the batter, and do not overbake the cake.
  • Mousse texture: Be gentle when folding the whipped cream into the chocolate to maintain the mousse’s light and airy texture.
  • Ganache: Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring over the cake to prevent it from melting the mousse underneath.

Recommendations:

  • Serve with a light scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
  • For an added touch, garnish the cake with chocolate curls, fresh berries, or shaved white chocolate for contrast.

Nutrition (per slice, approximate):

  • Calories: 450-500
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 40g
  • Sodium: 150mg

This Chocolate Mousse Cake is the ultimate dessert for any chocolate lover, combining layers of fluffy cake, rich mousse, and a smooth ganache topping. Perfect for celebrating special moments or enjoying a luxurious treat!

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