Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake is an indulgent dessert that features a rich, velvety chocolate mousse layered over a light and airy cake. This decadent treat is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to satisfy your chocolate cravings!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

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

For the Dark Chocolate Mousse:

• 8 oz 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
• Pinch of salt

Timing

Making Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake takes about 20 minutes for preparation, 30-35 minutes for baking, and 2-3 hours for chilling and setting.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare 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 the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together 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 ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Bake Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 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) or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
2. Whip Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the 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 with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.
4. Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until fully incorporated. Then, fold in the beaten egg whites carefully to maintain the airy texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Layer Mousse: Once the cake has cooled completely, place it on a serving plate. Pour the chocolate mousse over the top of the cake, spreading it evenly.
2. Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the mousse to set.

Step 4: Serve

1. Slice and Enjoy: Once set, slice the cake and serve chilled. Garnish with chocolate shavings or fresh berries if desired.

Step 5: Dig In

1. Savor the Flavor: Indulge in the rich, decadent layers of dark chocolate cake and mousse!

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	350
Protein	5g
Fat	25g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	15g

Tips for Customization

• Add Flavors: Enhance the mousse with a splash of espresso or orange liqueur for a different twist.
• Garnish Ideas: Top with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a dusting of cocoa powder for added elegance.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake is a luxurious dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with a light and airy mousse. Perfect for any chocolate lover, this cake is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth! Enjoy this delightful recipe!