Chocolate Cake with Silky Mousse

Chocolate Cake with Silky Mousse,

The Ultimate Indulgence!
Short Description
This Chocolate Cake with Silky Mousse is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers. Rich, moist chocolate cake layers are paired with a luxurious, creamy mousse that melts in your mouth. It's a decadent treat for any special occasion or when you simply want to spoil yourself!

Ingredients

• For the Chocolate Cake
• 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¾ cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or 1 cup milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice)
• ½ cup (120ml) hot water
• For the Chocolate Mousse
• 8 oz (225g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
• 1 ¼ cups (300ml) heavy cream, divided
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for extra silkiness)
• For the Chocolate Ganache (Optional)
• 4 oz (115g) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for a glossy finish)
• For Garnish
• Shaved chocolate or chocolate curls
• Fresh berries (optional)

Instructions

Make the Chocolate Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add the sugar and mix well.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and buttermilk until smooth.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Stir in the hot water, which will make the batter thin, but don’t worry, it’s normal.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Chocolate Mousse

In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped chocolate over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Once the chocolate has cooled slightly, gently fold in the whipped cream, mixing until smooth.
If desired, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter for an extra creamy texture.
Set the mousse aside and allow it to firm up in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
Make the Chocolate Ganache (Optional)

Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
In a small saucepan, heat the remaining ½ cup of heavy cream until it just begins to simmer.
Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
Stir until smooth, then add the butter if using. Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring it over the cake.
Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes have cooled, slice each cake layer in half horizontally to create four layers.
Place the first layer of cake on a serving plate or cake stand.
Spread a generous layer of chocolate mousse over the first cake layer.
Top with the second layer of cake and repeat the process until all layers are stacked.
Finish with a final layer of mousse on top of the cake.
Drizzle with Ganache and Garnish

If using, pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Garnish the cake with shaved chocolate or chocolate curls for an extra touch of elegance.
You can also add fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve and Enjoy

Chill the cake in the fridge for at least 1 hour to allow the mousse to set properly.
Slice and enjoy the rich, indulgent flavors of this chocolatey masterpiece!
Tips
If you don’t have buttermilk, make your own by adding 1 tbsp lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk.
You can use different types of chocolate for the mousse, such as milk chocolate or a combination of dark and milk for a balanced flavor.
For a more decadent touch, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
This Chocolate Cake with Silky Mousse is a perfect indulgence for any chocolate lover. The combination of moist cake, creamy mousse, and rich ganache will leave you wanting more! 🍫🎂