Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake is a stunning dessert that combines rich chocolate layers with creamy mousses, making it perfect for any celebration. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a sweet indulgence, this cake will impress your guests with its elegant presentation and delightful flavors. The blend of dark, white, and milk chocolate creates a luxurious experience that chocolate lovers will adore.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: With three types of chocolate, this cake offers layers of rich flavor that will satisfy every chocolate craving.
- Impressive Presentation: The layered look of the mousse and cake makes it visually stunning for special occasions.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for celebrations or as a treat to enjoy at home; this cake fits any occasion.
- Creative Customization: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the chocolate types based on your preference.
- Perfectly Balanced Texture: The combination of moist cake and airy mousse creates an irresistible texture in every bite.
Tools and Preparation
To create the Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right kitchen equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cake pans (8-inch)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Saucepan
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Cake ring or serving plate
Importance of Each Tool
- Cake pans: These help create perfect round layers for your cake, ensuring even baking.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess; having multiple bowls can help keep your workspace organized.
- Whisk: Great for achieving smooth mixtures in both batter and mousse; it helps incorporate air for lightness.

Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (50g) cocoa powder
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- 1½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup (120ml) whole milk, room temperature
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup (128g) sour cream, room temperature
- ½ cup (110g) vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp espresso powder
- 1 cup (240ml) hot water
For the Chocolate Mousses
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream, divided
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3.5 oz (100g) dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 4.5 oz (130g) white chocolate, finely chopped
For the Chocolate Ganache
- 5 oz (140g) milk chocolate, finely chopped
- ⅓ cup (80ml) heavy cream
How to Make Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk to combine.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sour cream, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until fully combined and smooth.
- In a small bowl, dissolve espresso powder in hot water. Pour into batter and mix until incorporated.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool completely in pans before turning them out. Level tops if needed. Optionally slice each cake in half horizontally.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Mousses
- Place chopped dark and white chocolate in two separate bowls.
- In another bowl, whisk egg yolks with sugar and cornstarch until pale and slightly thickened.
- Divide heavy cream into two portions of 1 cup each; set one aside to whip later.
- Heat remaining 1 cup of cream with vanilla in a saucepan over medium-low heat until steaming but not boiling.
- Slowly drizzle hot cream into egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly; return mixture to saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat while whisking constantly until it thickens and starts to boil—boil for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour half of custard over dark chocolate and half over white chocolate; stir until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Whip reserved cup of cream to stiff peaks; fold half into dark chocolate mousse and half into white chocolate mousse until smooth.
- Place one cake layer in bottom of a cake ring on serving plate or board.
- Spread dark chocolate mousse evenly over cake layer; then spread white chocolate mousse on top.
- Chill in fridge for 30 minutes; once set add second cake layer on top and chill for at least 4 hours.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache
- Heat cream in saucepan until steaming but do not boil; pour hot cream over chopped milk chocolate and let sit for 1 minute.
- Stir until smooth; let ganache cool to room temperature until it thickens slightly.
- Spread ganache over top of chilled cake gently pushing it towards edges.
Step 5: Decorate
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or sprinkles as desired.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
This Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake will surely be a showstopper at your next gathering! Enjoy every slice filled with rich flavors!
How to Serve Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
Serving Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake can be as delightful as making it. The luxurious layers of chocolate mousse and rich ganache make it a showstopper for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.
With Fresh Berries
- Fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a burst of color and tartness that complements the rich chocolate flavors.
A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a sweet contrast and helps balance the richness of the cake.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of warm caramel sauce adds a decadent touch, enhancing the overall indulgence of each slice.
Accompanied by Whipped Cream
- Lightly sweetened whipped cream can be served on the side for a fluffy texture that pairs well with the dense cake.
Paired with Coffee or Tea
- Serving this cake alongside a cup of coffee or herbal tea can elevate the tasting experience, bringing out the chocolate notes beautifully.
Garnished with Mint Leaves
- Fresh mint leaves not only add a pop of color but also bring a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavors.
How to Perfect Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
Creating the perfect Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake involves attention to detail and careful technique. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out flawlessly.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that your eggs, milk, and sour cream are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
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Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour, cocoa powder, and other dry ingredients removes lumps and ensures even mixing, resulting in a light and fluffy cake.
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Cool Cakes Completely: Allowing the cakes to cool completely before frosting prevents melting and ensures clean layers when assembling.
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Chill Between Layers: Chilling each mousse layer before adding more layers helps maintain structure and prevents them from mixing together.
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Whip Cream to Stiff Peaks: Whipping cream until stiff peaks form ensures that your mousses are light and airy. This will enhance their texture when folded into the chocolate mixtures.
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Let Ganache Set: Allowing ganache to cool slightly before pouring over the cake helps achieve a perfect glossy finish without it running off too quickly.
Best Side Dishes for Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
Pairing side dishes with Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing palate cleanser between sweet bites.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These treats echo the chocolate theme while adding an interactive element to dessert time.
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Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer a different texture while complementing the richness of the cake perfectly.
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Panna Cotta: This creamy Italian dessert adds elegance and contrasts nicely with the dense mousse cake.
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Chocolate Mousse Shots: Serving small portions of chocolate mousse allows guests to indulge without overdoing it, creating an appealing dessert trio.
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Nut Brittle: Crunchy nut brittle adds texture and can balance out the smoothness of the cake’s mousse layers for added interest.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake can be daunting, but avoiding common pitfalls will help ensure your dessert turns out perfectly.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure your ingredients are correct.
- Skipping room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs and milk can affect the batter’s texture. Allow all refrigerated items to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Not letting the cake cool completely: If you layer the mousse on a warm cake, it may melt. Ensure your cakes are completely cooled before assembly.
- Ignoring chilling times: Chilling the mousse layers is essential for proper texture. Don’t rush this step; allow enough time for them to set.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Containers: Use an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
Freezing Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
- Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Containers: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Use short intervals of 10-15 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake?
Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake is a decadent dessert featuring layers of rich chocolate cake, dark chocolate mousse, and white chocolate mousse, topped with smooth ganache.
How do I make the mousse without eggs?
You can make egg-free mousse by using aquafaba (chickpea water) as an alternative or by following recipes that utilize whipped cream as the base.
Can I customize the flavors of the mousses?
Absolutely! Feel free to add extracts like almond or orange zest to each chocolate layer for unique flavor profiles.
How do I know when my cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes! You can experiment with semi-sweet, milk, or even specialty chocolates according to your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
The Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake is an impressive treat that’s perfect for any celebration or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings. Its rich layers offer delightful flavors and textures that can be customized with various chocolates or toppings. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends!
Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake is a show-stopping dessert that features layers of rich chocolate cake paired with luscious dark and white chocolate mousses. This elegant cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday or indulging in a sweet treat at home.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- 1½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup whole milk, room temperature
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup sour cream, room temperature
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp espresso powder
- 1 cup hot water
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 cups heavy cream, divided
- 3.5 oz dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 4.5 oz white chocolate, finely chopped
- 5 oz milk chocolate, finely chopped
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk to combine.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sour cream, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until fully combined and smooth.
- In a small bowl, dissolve espresso powder in hot water. Pour into batter and mix until incorporated.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool completely in pans before turning them out. Level tops if needed. Optionally slice each cake in half horizontally.
- Place chopped dark and white chocolate in two separate bowls.
- In another bowl, whisk egg yolks with sugar and cornstarch until pale and slightly thickened.
- Divide heavy cream into two portions of 1 cup each; set one aside to whip later.
- Heat remaining 1 cup of cream with vanilla in a saucepan over medium-low heat until steaming but not boiling.
- Slowly drizzle hot cream into egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly; return mixture to saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat while whisking constantly until it thickens and starts to boil—boil for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour half of custard over dark chocolate and half over white chocolate; stir until smooth.
- Whip reserved cup of cream to stiff peaks; fold half into dark chocolate mousse and half into white chocolate mousse until smooth.
- Place one cake layer in bottom of a cake ring on serving plate or board.
- Spread dark chocolate mousse evenly over cake layer; then spread white chocolate mousse on top.
- Chill in fridge for 30 minutes; once set add second cake layer on top and chill for at least 4 hours.
- Heat cream in saucepan until steaming but do not boil; pour hot cream over chopped milk chocolate and let sit for 1 minute.
- Stir until smooth; let ganache cool to room temperature until it thickens slightly.
- Spread ganache over top of chilled cake gently pushing it towards edges.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or sprinkles as desired.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg