Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe

The Tuxedo Cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers. With layers of rich chocolate cake, velvety dark and white chocolate mousse, and a glossy ganache topping, this cake is as stunning as it is delicious. Perfect for celebrations or indulgent weekends, this triple chocolate mousse cake will leave everyone at the table impressed.

What Is Tuxedo Cake?

Tuxedo Cake gets its name from the elegant layers of dark and white chocolate, reminiscent of a classic black-and-white tuxedo. It features moist chocolate cake layers paired with contrasting mousses and topped with a decadent ganache, creating a dessert that’s visually appealing and absolutely delightful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Combines three types of chocolate for a symphony of flavors.
  • Impressive Presentation: Perfect for special occasions or as a show-stopping centerpiece.
  • Customizable: Adapt the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in stages, ideal for entertaining.

Ingredients

Chocolate Cake Layers:

  • 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup (65g) cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
  • 1 cup (240ml) hot coffee

Dark Chocolate Mousse:

  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
  • 8 oz (225g) dark chocolate, chopped
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar

White Chocolate Mousse:

  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
  • 8 oz (225g) white chocolate, chopped
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar

Ganache Topping:

  • ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 6 oz (170g) dark chocolate, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chocolate Cake:

  1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until smooth. Add buttermilk and mix well.
  4. Combine Batter: Gradually mix in the dry ingredients. Stir in hot coffee until the batter is smooth and thin.
  5. Bake: Divide batter evenly between pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool: Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Mousses:

Dark Chocolate Mousse:

  1. Heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming (not boiling).
  2. Pour cream over chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth.
  3. Cool to room temperature, then whip with powdered sugar until fluffy.

White Chocolate Mousse:

  1. Repeat the same process as above, substituting white chocolate for dark chocolate.

Assembling the Cake:

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake board.
  2. Spread dark chocolate mousse evenly over the top.
  3. Add the second cake layer and spread white chocolate mousse on top.
  4. Chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to set.

Preparing the Ganache:

  1. Heat heavy cream until steaming, then pour over chopped dark chocolate in a bowl.
  2. Let sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth.
  3. Pour ganache over the chilled cake, letting it drip down the sides for a dramatic effect.

Final Touch:

  1. Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour to firm up before slicing.
  2. Serve and enjoy this elegant chocolate masterpiece!

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
  • Serve with a glass of chilled milk, coffee, or dessert wine.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips:

  • Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Instructions:

  • Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Recipe Variations

  • Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.
  • Vegan Option: Use plant-based cream and chocolate, and replace eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture.
  • Flavor Twist: Add a splash of liqueur (like Baileys or Kahlua) to the mousses for an adult-friendly version.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them tightly wrapped at room temperature. Prepare the mousse and ganache on the day of assembly.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter taste, substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate in the mousse or ganache.

This Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake is the ultimate showstopper for any occasion. The combination of rich chocolate flavors, light mousse layers, and a luscious ganache topping makes it irresistibly indulgent. Ready to wow your guests? Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experience!

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Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe


  • Author: Julia Childley
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 12 servings

Description

A decadent dessert featuring layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy dark and white chocolate mousses, and a glossy ganache. Perfect for special occasions or any celebration where chocolate takes center stage.


Ingredients

Chocolate Cake Layers:

  • 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup (65g) cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
  • 1 cup (240ml) hot coffee

Dark Chocolate Mousse:

  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
  • 8 oz (225g) dark chocolate, chopped
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar

White Chocolate Mousse:

  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
  • 8 oz (225g) white chocolate, chopped
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar

Ganache Topping:

  • ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 6 oz (170g) dark chocolate, chopped

Instructions

  • Prepare the Cake Layers:
    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat eggs, sugars, and oil until smooth. Add buttermilk and mix well. Gradually add the dry ingredients, then stir in hot coffee until the batter is smooth and thin. Divide batter between pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Cool completely.
  • Make the Dark Chocolate Mousse:
    Heat 1 cup of heavy cream until steaming (not boiling). Pour over chopped dark chocolate, let sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth. Cool, then whip with powdered sugar until fluffy.
  • Make the White Chocolate Mousse:
    Repeat the same process as the dark chocolate mousse, using white chocolate.
  • Assemble the Cake:
    Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the dark chocolate mousse evenly over the top. Add the second cake layer and spread white chocolate mousse over it. Chill for 1-2 hours.
  • Prepare Ganache Topping:
    Heat ½ cup heavy cream until steaming. Pour over chopped dark chocolate, let sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth. Pour over the chilled cake, letting it drip down the sides. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Notes

  • Make sure to let each mousse layer set fully in the fridge to avoid collapsing when slicing.
  • You can substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate for a sweeter taste.
  • For a clean ganache finish, use an offset spatula to spread it evenly.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking and whipping
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: ~450 per serving (approximate, based on ingredients)
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