Triple-Layer Chocolate Espresso Mousse Cake

Indulge your senses with the rich and delicious Triple-Layer Chocolate Espresso Mousse Cake! This show-stopping dessert combines the deep, satisfying flavors of chocolate and espresso, layered into a heavenly mousse and fluffy cake. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any reason to celebrate, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends!

Why make this recipe?

This Triple-Layer Chocolate Espresso Mousse Cake is a dream for anyone who loves chocolate and coffee. It’s a delightful combination of textures – from the moist chocolate cake to the silky-smooth mousse layers. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dessert. Impress your guests and treat yourself to a slice of this luscious cake!

How to prepare Triple-Layer Chocolate Espresso Mousse Cake

Ingredients:

• 🍬 400 g granulated sugar
• 🌾 220 g flour
• 🍫 90 g unsweetened cocoa powder
• 🥄 1 1⁄2 teaspoons baking powder
• 🥄 1 1⁄2 teaspoons baking soda
• 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
• 🥚 2 large eggs
• 🥛 240 ml milk
• 🌿 120 ml vegetable oil
• 🍦 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 💧 240 ml boiling water + 1 tablespoon instant espresso
• 🧀 450 g cream cheese, softened
• 🍚 120 g powdered sugar
• ☕ 2 teaspoons instant espresso
• 🍦 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 🥛 480 ml cold heavy cream
• 🍫 340 g dark or semi-dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 🍦 360 ml cream
• 🍯 2 tablespoons corn syrup (optional)
• ☕ Chocolate-covered espresso beans (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake:

   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. 🎂
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well. 🍬🎉
   • Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed until smooth. 🥄
   • Carefully stir in the boiling water mixed with instant espresso. The batter will be thin. 💧☕
   • Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely. 🍰

2. Make the Espresso Mousse:

   • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, instant espresso, and vanilla. 🧀🍚
   • In another bowl, whip the cold heavy cream to soft peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until no streaks remain. 🥛✨

3. Assemble the Cake:

   • Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of espresso mousse on top. 🍰🍫
   • Repeat with the second layer and more mousse, then top with the final cake layer. Cover the top and sides with the remaining mousse. 🥄
   • Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

4. Garnish:

   • Optional: Drizzle with corn syrup and garnish with chocolate-covered espresso beans before serving. 🍯☕

How to serve Triple-Layer Chocolate Espresso Mousse Cake

Slice the cake into generous pieces and serve chilled. This cake is best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk! Enjoy the rich flavors and the delightfully smooth mousse with each bite. ☕🍰

How to store Triple-Layer Chocolate Espresso Mousse Cake

Store the cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze the cake without the mousse for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before adding mousse and serving. ❄️

Tips for preparing Triple-Layer Chocolate Espresso Mousse Cake

• Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth mixing. 🧀
• Whip the heavy cream just until soft peaks form – overwhipping can lead to a grainy texture. 🍦
• For extra chocolate flavor, you can drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top before serving! 🍫

Variations

• Substitute the instant espresso with strong brewed coffee for a different flavor profile. ☕
• Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the mousse layers for an extra chocolatey delight! 🍫✨

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes! You can use semi-sweet, bittersweet, or even milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter cake. 🍫

2. How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done! 👍

3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake actually tastes better the next day after it has set in the refrigerator. Make it a day ahead for best results! ⏰

Enjoy creating and indulging in this decadent Triple-Layer Chocolate Espresso Mousse Cake! 🍰☕