Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake is a rich and decadent dessert that features layers of velvety dark chocolate mousse on a chocolate sponge cake base. This indulgent cake is perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious treat for chocolate lovers.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:

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

For the Dark Chocolate Mousse:

• 8 ounces dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher, chopped)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 large eggs (separated)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Timing

Making Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake takes about 20 minutes for preparation and 30-35 minutes for baking, plus chilling time.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Sponge Cake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Dark Chocolate Mousse

1. Melt Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped dark chocolate and butter together over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method), stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Whip Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and granulated sugar until pale and creamy. Stir in the melted chocolate mixture and vanilla extract.
3. Beat Egg Whites: In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture until no white streaks remain.
4. 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.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Layer Mousse: Place the cooled chocolate sponge cake on a serving plate. Pour half of the chocolate mousse over the cake, smoothing it out evenly. Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set.
2. Add Remaining Mousse: Pour the remaining mousse over the set layer and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish and Slice: Once set, you can garnish with chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or whipped cream if desired. Slice and serve chilled.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake (per slice, based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	5g
Fat	23g
Carbohydrates	27g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	15g

Tips for Customization

• Flavor Variations: Add a splash of espresso or coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor.
• Fruit Additions: Incorporate fresh raspberries or strawberries in between the layers for added freshness.
• Topping Options: Top with a ganache glaze or serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness.

Conclusion

Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake is an indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with a light and airy mousse. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself to something delicious. Enjoy this delightful recipe!