Description
Indulge in this decadent Dark Chocolate Raspberry Mousse Cake, where rich dark chocolate cake layers are combined with a luscious raspberry mousse and topped with a glossy chocolate ganache. This elegant dessert perfectly balances the deep flavors of chocolate with the tart freshness of raspberries, creating a show-stopping cake ideal for special occasions.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Buttermilk
Raspberry Mousse Ingredients
- 1 cup Fresh raspberries, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 4 ounces Dark chocolate, melted and cooled
Chocolate Ganache Ingredients
- 4 ounces Dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup Heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Cake Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking and ensure an even bake.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to combine thoroughly.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined without overmixing.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan, smooth the top with a spatula, and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Test with a toothpick to ensure it comes out clean, indicating the cake is done.
- Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely, preventing sogginess.
- Prepare Raspberry Puree: In a blender or food processor, puree fresh raspberries with granulated sugar until smooth. Pass the puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds for a silky mousse.
- Make Raspberry Mousse: Whip heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Carefully fold in the melted and cooled dark chocolate followed by the raspberry puree, combining without losing volume.
- Chill Mousse: Refrigerate the mousse for about 30 minutes to firm up the texture before assembling the cake.
- Slice Cake Layers: Once cooled, carefully slice the cake horizontally into two equal layers using a serrated knife for even layers.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread half of the raspberry mousse evenly over it. Top with the second cake layer and spread the remaining mousse on top.
- Chill Assembled Cake: Refrigerate the fully assembled cake for at least 1 hour to allow the mousse to set and the flavors to meld.
- Prepare Chocolate Ganache: Heat heavy cream just until boiling. Pour over chopped dark chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes. Stir gently until smooth and glossy.
- Finish the Cake: Drizzle the prepared ganache evenly over the chilled cake. Garnish with extra fresh raspberries if desired before serving.
Notes
- This cake is perfect for special occasions and celebrations due to its luxurious texture and flavor.
- You can customize the mousse by substituting raspberries with other berries like strawberries or blackberries for variety.
- Ensure the mousse is well-chilled before assembling to maintain its structure.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor in both the mousse and ganache.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days for freshness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American