Description
This Dark Chocolate Raspberry Mousse Cake is an indulgent dessert that combines a rich, moist chocolate cake with a creamy, fruity raspberry mousse and a luscious dark chocolate ganache. Perfect for special occasions or chocolate lovers, this cake brings together bold flavors and elegant textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 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
- 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
Ganache
- 4 ounces Dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup Heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan. In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly combine the dry ingredients.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which will take about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is vital to incorporate air for a tender cake.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter and sugar mixture, ensuring each egg is fully mixed before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, taking care not to overmix. Mix until just combined for a moist and tender crumb.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is done.
- Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set. Then, transfer it to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely to room temperature before proceeding.
- Make Raspberry Puree: Puree the fresh raspberries with 1/4 cup granulated sugar in a blender until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds, resulting in a silky raspberry puree.
- Prepare Raspberry Mousse: Whip the heavy cream with 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the melted and cooled dark chocolate followed by the raspberry puree, combining thoroughly to create a light and airy mousse.
- Chill Mousse: Refrigerate the raspberry mousse for about 30 minutes to allow it to set and develop structure.
- Layer the Cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, slice it horizontally into two equal layers. Place one layer on a serving plate, spread half of the raspberry mousse evenly over it, then place the second layer on top and cover with the remaining mousse.
- Chill Assembled Cake: Refrigerate the layered cake for at least 1 hour to firm up the mousse and meld the flavors.
- Prepare Ganache: Heat the 1/2 cup heavy cream until just boiling. Pour it over the chopped dark chocolate and let sit for a few minutes. Stir gently until the ganache is smooth and glossy.
- Decorate Cake: Drizzle the ganache over the chilled cake for a rich and shiny finish. Garnish with extra fresh raspberries if desired. Serve and enjoy.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to avoid a dense cake.
- Straining the raspberry puree removes seeds, creating a silky mousse texture.
- Chilling the mousse and assembled cake helps the dessert set properly.
- The ganache should be smooth and pourable, adjust cream quantity slightly if needed.
- Store the cake refrigerated and consume within 3 days for best freshness.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: dark chocolate cake, raspberry mousse, chocolate ganache, layered cake, chocolate dessert, berry mousse, homemade cake
