Chocolate mousse cake is a decadent treat that combines the richness of chocolate cake with the light, creamy texture of mousse. It’s a dessert that is as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat, making it perfect for any special occasion or when you simply want to indulge in a sweet, satisfying treat. Whether you’re preparing it for a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or just as a weekend treat, chocolate mousse cake is sure to impress. This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to make this luscious dessert, from ingredients to baking tips, with helpful notes along the way.
Chocolate Mousse Cake
Chocolate mousse cake is the ultimate chocolate lover’s dream. With its two layers of indulgence – a rich chocolate cake base and a fluffy, creamy mousse filling – it’s a dessert that stands out for its luxurious taste and texture. What makes it even more perfect is how versatile it can be, with simple adjustments allowing you to customize it to your personal preferences.
Making this dessert may seem complicated at first glance, but it’s actually straightforward once you get the hang of it. Plus, the end result is so rewarding that it’s totally worth the effort. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a sweet treat for your family, chocolate mousse cake never fails to impress.

What is Chocolate Mousse Cake?
Chocolate mousse cake is a layered dessert with a soft, dense chocolate cake base topped with a rich, creamy chocolate mousse filling. The mousse itself is made from whipped cream and melted chocolate, resulting in a smooth and airy texture. Some variations of the cake might include a chocolate ganache or a layer of fruit in between the mousse and cake layers.
This cake combines the best of both worlds: the rich, moist cake that gives you the satisfying depth of flavor, and the light, airy mousse that melts in your mouth with each bite. It’s a treat that’s perfect for every occasion and sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Mousse Cake
Perfect Texture Combination
The contrast between the rich, dense cake and the fluffy mousse is irresistible. Every bite offers a balance of lightness and depth that’s just heavenly.
Simple Yet Impressive
Despite looking like a gourmet dessert, chocolate mousse cake is surprisingly easy to make. A little patience with the chilling time is all you need for a showstopper.
Customizable to Your Taste
You can experiment with different chocolates, adding flavored liqueurs or fruits between the layers to make the cake even more personal and unique.
A Crowd-Pleaser
Whether it’s a birthday, dinner party, or holiday celebration, this cake is guaranteed to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. It’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion.
Ingredient Notes for a Chocolate Mousse Cake
Before you start, let’s review the ingredients you’ll need for the chocolate mousse cake. Each one plays a key role in delivering the perfect texture and flavor.
- Cuisine: French
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Servings: 8-10
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: 350 per serving
Ingredients for the Cake Layer:
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup (240ml) hot water
Ingredients for the Mousse:
- 8 oz (225g) dark chocolate (about 70% cocoa)
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) heavy whipping cream
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Optional Garnish:
- Shaved chocolate or cocoa powder
- Fresh berries
Chocolate Mousse Cake: Instructions
Creating the perfect chocolate mousse cake is a multi-step process, but the good news is that it’s easy to follow, and the results are absolutely worth it. Here’s how to prepare this mouthwatering dessert.
Prepare the Cake Layer
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line your 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper to ensure the cake can be easily removed.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Slowly combine with the wet ingredients, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually add the hot water to the batter, stirring until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing.
Make the Mousse
- Place the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler (or use a microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between). Stir until smooth and completely melted.
- In another mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together. Place this bowl over the double boiler and whisk continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Once the chocolate has cooled slightly, gently fold in the egg yolk mixture and the whipped cream, blending until smooth and fluffy.
- Refrigerate the mousse for about 15 minutes to thicken it slightly.
Assemble the Cake
- Slice the cooled chocolate cake into two equal layers.
- Place the bottom layer of cake in the springform pan and cover it with half of the mousse.
- Gently press the second cake layer on top, then pour the remaining mousse over the top, spreading it evenly.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
Serve and Enjoy
- Before serving, carefully remove the springform pan from the cake.
- Garnish the cake with shaved chocolate, cocoa powder, or fresh berries, depending on your preference.
- Slice and serve chilled for the best texture.
Chocolate Mousse Cake Variation
There are many ways to make this cake your own. Consider adding a layer of fruit like raspberries or strawberries between the cake layers for a refreshing twist. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate – milk, dark, or even white chocolate – to change up the flavor. For an adult version, add a splash of Baileys, Grand Marnier, or rum to the mousse to elevate the taste. The possibilities are endless!
How to Serve Chocolate Mousse Cake
Chocolate mousse cake is best served chilled, as the mousse will set properly and provide a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth experience. For added indulgence, pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. You can also drizzle a little bit of chocolate sauce or caramel over the top for extra flavor.
Storage Options
If you have leftover chocolate mousse cake (which is rare!), you can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to preserve its freshness. If you want to keep it longer, individual slices can be frozen for up to 2 weeks. Simply wrap them tightly and place in a freezer-safe bag.
More Favorite Recipes:
If you loved this chocolate mousse cake, you may also enjoy these other delicious desserts:
- Classic Chocolate Cake
- Tiramisu
- Lemon Meringue Pie
- Carrot Cake
- Vanilla Bean Cheesecake
Last Step
After preparing this delightful chocolate mousse cake, make sure to share it with your friends and family. It’s a dessert that’s perfect for creating memorable moments and treating your loved ones to something truly special.
FAQs About Chocolate Mousse Cake
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, chocolate mousse cake can be made a day in advance. Just make sure to store it in the fridge to allow it to set properly before serving.
How can I make this cake without eggs?
For an egg-free version, you can substitute the eggs in the mousse with an extra amount of whipped cream. This will still give you a light, airy mousse texture.
Recipe Notes
I cooked this chocolate mousse cake for a family gathering, and it was an absolute hit! The smooth mousse paired perfectly with the rich, moist cake. For added flair, you can top it with some fresh berries or a dusting of cocoa powder for that extra bit of elegance. Just be sure to allow enough time for the mousse to set properly, and it’ll be the star of any dessert table.
Enjoy this chocolate mousse cake, and don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings or flavor variations. It’s a timeless dessert that’s sure to leave everyone coming back for seconds!
More Recipe Here
Basic Sweet Dough Recipe

Chocolate Mousse Cake: A Luxurious Dessert
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bake the Cake Layer
- Make the Mousse:
- Assemble the Cake:
- Serve and Enjoy:
Notes
Essential Note
- Chocolate Quality: The key to a successful chocolate mousse cake is using high-quality chocolate. Look for chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for the best flavor.
- Chill Time: This cake needs time to set. Make sure to allow it to chill completely, so the mousse firms up and doesn’t become runny when you cut into it.
- Egg Safety: If you're concerned about using raw eggs, you can opt for pasteurized eggs, which are safe for uncooked applications.