Strawberry Chocolate Mousse Cake
Strawberry Chocolate Mousse Cake is a decadent dessert that layers rich chocolate cake, smooth chocolate mousse, and fresh strawberry filling. The combination of velvety mousse and juicy strawberries creates a perfect balance of flavors. This indulgent treat is a delightful choice for any special occasion or chocolate lover.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Saucepan
- Spatula
- Piping bag (optional)
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake Layer:
- 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 granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup boiling water
For the Chocolate Mousse:
- 200 g dark chocolate around 70% cocoa
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar optional
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Instructions
Make the Chocolate Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan. In a bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until fully combined.
- Pour in the boiling water and stir carefully to make a thin batter. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
Prepare the Chocolate Mousse:
- In a saucepan, heat 1 cup of heavy cream until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the dark chocolate. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract and powdered sugar (if desired). Let the mousse cool slightly before refrigerating for at least 30 minutes to thicken.
Prepare the Strawberry Layer:
- In a small bowl, toss the chopped strawberries with sugar and let them sit for 10 minutes to release their juices.
- In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the strawberries to create a strawberry cream mixture.
Assemble the Cake:
- Once the chocolate cake has cooled, slice it into two layers. Spread the strawberry cream mixture on the bottom layer, then top it with the chilled chocolate mousse.
- Place the second cake layer on top and refrigerate for 2-3 hours before serving to allow the mousse to set.
Notes
❖ Gelatin Tip: If you prefer a firmer mousse, adding a little gelatin will help set the layers more securely without compromising the texture.
❖ Flavor Variations: Swap fresh strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or even mango puree for a fresh twist on this cake.
❖ Chocolate Ganache Option: For extra richness, drizzle a layer of chocolate ganache over the mousse before decorating with strawberries.
❖ Make Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to refrigerate it to allow the mousse layers to set perfectly.
❖ Sweetness Adjustments: You can adjust the amount of sugar in the mousse to suit your sweetness preference, especially if you’re using sweeter fruits.