Chocolate Mousse Cake

Why Make This Recipe

This Easy Chocolate Mousse Cake is a perfect dessert choice for any chocolate lover. It features a light and fluffy mousse layered over a moist chocolate genoise sponge, all topped with a delicious chocolate ganache. This cake is not only simple to make but also impressively decadent, making it an ideal treat for gatherings, birthdays, or just a special night at home.

How to Make Easy Chocolate Mousse Cake

Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50g)
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (43g)
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder (12g)
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 300g semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (~50% cocoa, or use an equal mixture of milk and dark chocolate)
• 2 ½ cups heavy cream (600g); chilled and divided into 1 cup (240g) and 1 ½ cups (360g)
• 80g chocolate (dark, milk or semi-sweet – all options are okay)
• 1/3 cup heavy cream (80g)

Directions

Chocolate Genoise Sponge Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan.
2. In a bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until pale and fluffy.
3. Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold this mixture into the egg mixture to avoid deflating the eggs.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for about 20-25 minutes. The cake should spring back when touched.
5. Let it cool completely on a wire rack before removing it from the pan.

Chocolate Mousse:

1. Melt the 300g of semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly.
2. Whip 1 cup (240g) of heavy cream until soft peaks form.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the melted chocolate until well combined.

Assembly:

1. Slice the cooled sponge cake in half horizontally.
2. Place one layer of the cake on a serving plate. Spread half of the chocolate mousse over this layer.
3. Top with the second layer of cake and spread the remaining mousse on top.

Chocolate Ganache (optional):

1. For the ganache, heat 1/3 cup (80g) of heavy cream until it just begins to simmer.
2. Pour it over the 80g of chopped chocolate, letting it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth. Pour this ganache over the mousse layer.

Decoration & Serving:

1. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours to let everything set properly.
2. Once set, you can decorate with chocolate shavings or fresh fruit if desired.

How to Serve Easy Chocolate Mousse Cake

Serve the cake chilled, sliced into wedges. It goes wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries on the side. This cake is perfect for celebrations or as an indulgent dessert after dinner.

How to Store Easy Chocolate Mousse Cake

Keep the cake covered in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-4 days. If you have any leftovers, ensure the ganache stays covered to prevent it from becoming dry.

Tips to Make Easy Chocolate Mousse Cake

• Make sure your heavy cream is well chilled to achieve the best volume when whipped.
• For an extra touch, sprinkle cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top before serving.
• If you want a stronger chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate for both the mousse and the ganache.

Variation

You can add flavor variations to the mousse by incorporating a splash of vanilla extract, or by folding in some orange zest for a touch of citrus. Alternatively, you can use a flavored liqueur like Kahlua or Bailey’s for an adult twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?
Yes, milk chocolate can be used, but keep in mind that it will make the mousse sweeter.

2. How do I know when the genoise cake is done?
The cake is done when it is springy to the touch, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

3. Can I freeze the chocolate mousse cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake! Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. It will keep for about a month.