Name: Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box Chocolate fudge cake mix (13.5 ounces); Eggs (the cake mix calls for plus 1 more); Butter (melted, amount equal to oil called for in cake mix); Milk (amount equal to water called for in cake mix); 3 cups heavy whipping cream; 1 box instant chocolate pudding mix (5.9 ounces); 2 cups butter (softened); 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup corn syrup; 4 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 74 reviews

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures pure decadence in every bite, look no further than this incredible Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe. Combining the rich, moist texture of chocolate fudge cake with a heavenly, fluffy chocolate mousse filling and a luscious chocolate frosting, this cake is a celebration of everything chocolate should be. Easy to make yet impressive enough for any occasion, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a stunning dessert that your friends and family will rave about. Whether it’s a birthday, a holiday, or just a special treat, the Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe is certain to become a treasured favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A shiny metal bowl sits on a white marbled surface filled with various ingredients for baking. The largest layer at the bottom is dark and wet, likely melted chocolate or syrup. On top of this, there are several lighter piles of fine, powdery brown cocoa evenly spread around. Near one side, two raw eggs with bright yellow yolks and clear whites are visible, partially mixed with the powders. A metal whisk with a wooden handle is placed inside the bowl, touching the wet and powder layers. The bowl edges are clean and shiny, reflecting light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To create this show-stopping Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe, you’ll use ingredients that are straightforward but essential, each playing a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. From the moist cake base to the rich mousse and silky frosting, every component brings something delicious to the table.

Chocolate fudge cake mix (13.5 ounce): The foundation of the cake providing deep chocolate flavor and a perfectly tender crumb.
Eggs (the cake mix calls for plus 1 more): Extra egg adds moisture and richness to the cake batter.
Butter (substitutes oil amount in the mix): Melted butter enhances flavor and creates a more luxurious texture than oil.
Milk (substitutes water amount in the mix): Adds creaminess making the cake tender and rich.
Heavy whipping cream (3 cups): Whipped to fluffy perfection, it forms the light and airy mousse filling.
Instant chocolate pudding mix (5.9 ounces): Gives the mousse its creamy chocolate intensity and structure.
Butter (2 cups, softened): Used in the frosting to create a smooth, velvety finish.
Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens the frosting while keeping it silky smooth.
Unsweetened cocoa powder (1 cup): Provides rich chocolate depth and color to the frosting.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the chocolate flavors with a warm, fragrant note.
Corn syrup (½ cup): Adds shine and perfect spreadability to the frosting.
Semisweet chocolate chips (4 cups): Melted for that luscious chocolate frosting and a hint of sweetness.

How to Make Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe

Step 1: Make the Cake

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s ready for baking the perfect cake layers. In a large bowl, combine your chocolate fudge cake mix with the eggs called for on the box plus one extra, substituting the oil with an equal amount of melted butter and replacing the water with milk. These simple swaps really amp up the flavor and texture. Whisk everything together until smooth and evenly mixed.

Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers

Grease two 9-inch cake pans and divide your batter evenly between them. Bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool completely. This cooling step is crucial to avoid melting the mousse later. Noticing the natural domed shape of the cakes? You’ll trim those off next for perfect layers.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Mousse

In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream with the instant chocolate pudding mix. Using an electric mixer, whip these until the mixture is fluffy and has formed soft peaks. This luscious mousse creates the dreamy middle layer of your cake that almost melts on your tongue.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake Layers

Level your cake layers by slicing off those domed tops you set aside earlier. On a cake platter, place one layer flat side up, then spread all of the prepared mousse evenly over the top. Finally, gently place the second layer on, pressing lightly to secure the mousse inside this chocolate dream sandwich.

Step 5: Make the Chocolate Frosting

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips with the corn syrup in 30-second intervals until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly but don’t let it harden. Meanwhile, beat softened butter with powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract until creamy. Gradually mix in the cooled chocolate until fully combined. This frosting is rich, silky, and perfect for coating your cake.

Step 6: Frost and Finish

Frost your assembled cake with an offset spatula or knife, covering the top and sides completely. For a decorative touch, pipe frosting around the edges and create fork squiggly lines across the top surface. If you want that authentic texture, crumble the trimmed cake tops finely and press the crumbs onto the sides of your cake for a beautiful crumb finish just like those bakery masterpieces.

How to Serve Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe

A round chocolate cake with two visible layers covered on the sides with dark, crumbly chocolate bits that create a rough texture. The top of the cake is decorated with a thick layer of smooth, piped chocolate frosting in wave-like patterns, giving a soft and creamy look. The cake is placed on a simple white plate with a thin gold rim, sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe presentation, think beyond frosting. Fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries add a tart contrast, while a sprinkle of shaved chocolate or chocolate curls offers a touch of elegance. A dusting of cocoa powder or a few mint leaves also bring freshness and vibrant color that looks as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

A slice of this rich cake pairs wonderfully with lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to balance the intense chocolate flavors. If you want a beverage sidekick, a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a bold red wine complements and enhances the chocolate experience perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or a special occasion, serve your cake slices on chilled plates with a drizzle of raspberry coulis or caramel sauce. You can even create individual mousse cups using the mousse filling layered with cake crumbs for a playful twist. Presentation is half the fun, so get creative and make this Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe your own signature treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This cake not only tastes divine fresh but also keeps beautifully. Wrap the leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The mousse and frosting maintain their texture, and the cake flavors even deepen over time.

Freezing

If you want to keep your Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the whole cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Since this cake is mousse-based, it’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature rather than reheated. If the cake feels too cold from the fridge, simply let it sit out for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. This step ensures the best melt-in-your-mouth experience.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade chocolate cake instead of box mix for this Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! While the box mix makes this recipe super simple and consistent, using your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe works just as well. Just make sure your cake layers are moist and level before assembling.

How long does the mousse filling stay fresh?

The mousse is best eaten within 2-3 days when refrigerated. It maintains its airy texture during this time and should be kept cold to avoid separation.

Can I substitute the pudding mix with something else?

The instant chocolate pudding mix acts as a stabilizer and flavor booster. If you prefer, you can try homemade chocolate mousse recipes, but this particular mix ensures the perfect firmness needed for layering.

Is it necessary to trim the domed cake tops?

Trimming the domed tops isn’t mandatory, but it makes stacking the layers neater and helps the mousse sit evenly between them for a professional finish.

Can this cake be made gluten-free?

You can adapt this Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe to gluten-free by using a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensuring all ingredients, including pudding mix and cocoa powder, are gluten-free certified.

Final Thoughts

Making this Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe is truly a delightful journey from simple ingredients to an unforgettable dessert centerpiece. It’s rich yet light, elegant yet approachable — a cake that invites smiles and second helpings. Trust me, once you make it for your loved ones, it will quickly become that recipe you pull out time and again to impress and cuddle up with chocolate bliss. So, preheat that oven and dive into this fantastic chocolate adventure!