Tuxedo Cake, also known as Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake, is a dessert that every chocolate lover dreams of. This cake combines rich chocolate cake layers with smooth chocolate mousses, creating a delicious treat that looks as stunning as it tastes. Each bite offers a mix of dark, milk, and white chocolate flavors, giving your taste buds a delightful experience. It’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to indulge in something sweet. Making this cake might take some time, but the end result is definitely worth it. Let’s get started!

Why Make This Recipe

This Tuxedo Cake is special because it has three kinds of chocolate. The combination of textures—from fluffy mousse to moist cake—makes it unique. It’s also visually impressive, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration. Plus, learning how to make this cake improves your baking skills and gives you a chance to impress friends and family with a stunning dessert. Enjoy every step as you dive into this great chocolate treat!

How to Make Tuxedo Cake

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (50g) cocoa powder
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1½ teaspoons baking soda
• 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 teaspoon espresso powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) hot water
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3.5 oz (100g) dark chocolate
• 4.5 oz (130g) white chocolate
• 5 oz (140g) milk chocolate
• ⅓ cup (80ml) heavy cream

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. In a separate bowl, combine milk, eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, espresso powder, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients until the espresso dissolves completely.

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. The batter will look thick at this point. Slowly stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth and thin. Don’t worry—this consistency creates the cake’s tender crumb. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool the cakes in their pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely. Let them cool for at least 2 hours before assembling. For the chocolate mousses, heat 1 cup of heavy cream in a saucepan until it just simmers. Remove from heat. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks with sugar and cornstarch until pale and thick. Slowly pour the hot cream into the yolk mixture, whisking constantly.

Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 2-3 minutes). Divide this custard base between two bowls. Add dark chocolate to one bowl and white chocolate to the other, stirring until melted and smooth. Beat the remaining 1 cup of heavy cream to soft peaks. Fold half into each chocolate mixture to create two distinct mousses.

To assemble, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the dark chocolate mousse over the top, then add the second layer. Spread white chocolate mousse over the top layer, covering it smoothly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set. For the ganache, heat the heavy cream until it simmers, then pour over the milk chocolate. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Pour the ganache over the chilled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a classic tuxedo effect. Refrigerate for another 30 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Tuxedo Cake

Serve Tuxedo Cake chilled for the best flavor and texture. Slice it carefully and enjoy with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. This cake is rich, so smaller slices are perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings.

How to Store Tuxedo Cake

Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Enjoy it within a few days for the best taste.

Tips to Make Tuxedo Cake

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing. Ensure all chocolate melts smoothly. Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the mousse and ganache to avoid melting.

Variations

You can add berries, like raspberries or strawberries, between the layers for a fruity twist. Consider using different types of chocolate for the mousses, like caramel or hazelnut.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and assemble it before serving.

2. What if I don’t have espresso powder?
You can skip it or use strong coffee instead for a similar flavor.

3. Can I freeze the Tuxedo Cake?
Yes, you can freeze slices of the cake. Wrap them well to avoid freezer burn.

4. How do I ensure my chocolate melts smoothly?
Heat chocolate gently, and stir it slowly to prevent burning.

5. Is this cake suitable for kids?
Yes, kids will love the chocolate flavors, but consider reducing the espresso if you’re concerned about caffeine.

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