Mocha Mousse Dream Cake

Short Description

The Mocha Mousse Dream Cake is a decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and coffee. Featuring a moist chocolate cake base topped with a light and airy mocha mousse, this cake offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, making it an ideal choice for coffee and chocolate enthusiasts alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor Combination: The marriage of deep chocolate and robust coffee flavors creates a sophisticated taste experience.

• Light and Airy Texture: The mocha mousse topping provides a delightful contrast to the dense chocolate cake, offering a melt-in-your-mouth sensation.

• Versatile Presentation: Whether served at a formal gathering or a casual get-together, this cake is sure to impress with its elegant appearance and delectable taste.

• Make-Ahead Convenience: The cake can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and making it a convenient dessert option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggschsugar.com+1chsugar.com+1

• ½ cup whole milk

• ¼ cup strong brewed coffee

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Mocha Mousse:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 4 oz dark chocolate, melted

• 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules

• ¼ cup powdered sugar

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.

   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

   • Add the eggs, milk, brewed coffee, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined and smooth.

   • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

   • Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the mousse topping.

2. Prepare the Mocha Mousse:

   • In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.

   • In a separate bowl, combine the melted dark chocolate, instant coffee granules, and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth.

   • Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.

3. Assemble the Cake:

   • Spread the mocha mousse evenly over the cooled chocolate cake.

   • Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the mousse to set.

   • Before serving, optionally garnish with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes

• Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes

• Chilling Time: 2 hours

• Total Time: Approximately 3 hours

Variations

• Layered Cake: Slice the cake horizontally to create layers, spreading mousse between each layer for added elegance.

• Mocha Ganache Topping: Drizzle a mocha ganache over the mousse for an extra layer of flavor.

• Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as hazelnuts or almonds, into the mousse for added texture.

• Alcohol-Infused: Add a tablespoon of coffee liqueur to the mousse for an adult twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: The cake can be frozen without the mousse topping for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and add fresh mousse before serving.

• Reheating: Not recommended, as reheating can alter the texture of the mousse.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for the mousse?

Yes, but the mousse will be sweeter and less intense in flavor. Adjust the sugar accordingly.

Is it necessary to use brewed coffee in the cake?

The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor but can be substituted with water if preferred.

Can I make the cake in advance?

Yes, the cake can be baked a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Add the mousse topping before serving.

How do I prevent the mousse from becoming too runny?

Ensure the whipped cream forms soft peaks and fold it gently into the chocolate mixture to maintain structure.

Can I use espresso powder instead of instant coffee granules?

Yes, espresso powder can be used for a stronger coffee flavor.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the heavy cream?

Coconut cream can be used as a substitute, but it may alter the flavor profile.

Can I add gelatin to stabilize the mousse?

Yes, a small amount of gelatin can be added to help the mousse set more firmly.

What is the best way to slice the cake for clean edges?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before each cut for clean slices.

[tasty-recipe id=”18127″]