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Decadent Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe

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4.7 from 54 reviews

This Decadent Chocolate Mousse Cake features a rich chocolate cake layered with a smooth, airy chocolate mousse made from whipped cream and silky ganache. With its luscious texture and elegant presentation, this recipe is perfect for special occasions or anytime you crave a sophisticated chocolate dessert.

Ingredients

Cake

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (for a Chocolate 9×13 Cake)
  • Ingredients required as per cake mix box instructions (typically eggs, oil, water)

Mousse

  • 3 cups heavy cream, divided
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Garnish (Optional)

  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder (optional for garnish)
  • Chocolate shavings or curls for decoration (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bake the Chocolate Cake: Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package directions and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely. Then, carefully remove the cake from the pan and slice it horizontally in half with a serrated knife to create two thin, even layers. Alternatively, bake in two pans.
  2. Make the Chocolate Ganache Base for Mousse: Heat 1 cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer, making sure it does not boil. Remove from heat and pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to melt the chocolate. Stir everything until smooth and glossy, then let the ganache cool to room temperature.
  3. Whip the Cream for Mousse: In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining 2 cups heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer on high speed, whip the mixture until stiff peaks form, ensuring a light and airy texture.
  4. Fold and Create the Mousse: Gently fold the cooled chocolate ganache into the whipped cream using a spatula. Incorporate the two mixtures until fully combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain the mousse’s fluffy consistency.
  5. Assemble the Layers: Place the bottom cake layer on a serving plate or cake board. Spread half of the chocolate mousse evenly over this layer. Position the second cake layer on top, then spread the remaining mousse over the top and around the sides, smoothing it for a polished finish.
  6. Garnish and Chill: Lightly dust the top of the cake with cocoa powder if desired. Decorate with chocolate shavings or curls for an elegant touch. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 to 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the mousse to set properly before serving.

Notes

  • For best results, ensure the cake is completely cooled before slicing and assembling to prevent the mousse from melting.
  • Use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer flavor in the mousse.
  • Be careful not to overmix when folding the ganache into the whipped cream to keep the mousse light.
  • The cake can be made a day ahead; just keep it refrigerated until serving.
  • Optional garnishes like cocoa powder and chocolate curls add a beautiful finishing touch but can be omitted if desired.