Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a hug in cake form, then the Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake is exactly what you need. This cake is a showstopper, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just because you deserve something sweet. It combines rich chocolate layers with luscious mousse and a glossy ganache that will have everyone swooning. Trust me; once you serve this beauty, it will become your go-to dessert for every occasion.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it effortlessly brings friends and family together. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this cake never fails to impress. Get ready to dive into layers of chocolatey goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavors: Each bite offers a delightful blend of dark and white chocolate mousses that melt in your mouth.
- Impressive Presentation: The elegant design of the Tuxedo Cake makes it perfect for celebrations and special occasions.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike love the rich taste, making it a hit at family gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this cake in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
- Simple Ingredients: With basic pantry staples, whipping up this masterpiece is easier than you think.

Ingredients You’ll Need
To create your own Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake, gather these simple and wholesome ingredients. They work together harmoniously to create layers of flavor that are simply irresistible.
For the Chocolate Cake
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (50g) cocoa powder
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- 1½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup (120ml) whole milk, room temperature
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup (128g) sour cream, room temperature
- ½ cup (110g) vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp espresso powder
- 1 cup (240ml) hot water
For the Chocolate Mousses
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream, divided
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3.5 oz (100g) dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 4.5 oz (130g) white chocolate, finely chopped
For the Chocolate Ganache
- 5 oz (140g) milk chocolate, finely chopped
- ⅓ cup (80ml) heavy cream
Variations
One of the best things about this Tuxedo Cake recipe is its flexibility! If you’re feeling adventurous or want to tailor it to your taste preferences, here are some fun variation ideas.
- Try Different Chocolates: Swap out dark chocolate for semi-sweet or even ruby chocolate for a unique twist.
- Add Flavoring: Incorporate flavor extracts like almond or mint into the mousse for an exciting new dimension.
- Fruit Layering: Add fresh berries between layers for a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavors.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
How to Make Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cake
First things first—let’s get that scrumptious chocolate cake ready! Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal later on! In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until fully combined.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and richness to your cake. Now add these wet ingredients to your dry ingredients and mix until everything is fully blended and smooth.
Step 3: Add Espresso & Bake
In a small bowl, dissolve espresso powder in hot water. Pour this into your batter—it enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully! Divide your batter evenly between prepared pans and pop them in the oven. Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
Step 4: Cool Down
Once baked, let those cakes cool completely in their pans before carefully turning them out onto wire racks. If needed, level off any domed tops for even layering later on.
Step 5: Make the Chocolate Mousses
Let’s whip up those heavenly mousses! Start by placing chopped dark and white chocolates into separate bowls. In another bowl, whisk together egg yolks with sugar and cornstarch until pale. Heat one cup of heavy cream with vanilla until steaming but not boiling. Gradually drizzle this into the egg mixture while whisking constantly—this is crucial for preventing scrambled eggs!
Step 6: Thicken & Mix
Pour back into your saucepan and cook while whisking until thickened; it should bubble slightly when ready! Now pour half over dark chocolate and half over white chocolate—stir until melted and smooth.
Step 7: Fold in Cream
Whip your remaining cup of heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold half into each chocolate mixture until they are airy and light—this will give them that dreamy mousse texture!
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
Time to build our masterpiece! Place one layer of cake on a serving plate or cake board using a cake ring if you have one. Spread dark chocolate mousse over it evenly followed by white chocolate mousse on top—smooth it out lovingly!
Step 9: Chill & Set
Pop this beauty in the fridge for about 30 minutes so those mousse layers can set nicely. Then add another layer of cake on top and chill again for at least four hours—or overnight if you can resist!
Step 10: Make the Ganache
For that gorgeous finish, heat heavy cream in a saucepan until steaming but not boiling again. Pour over chopped milk chocolate and let sit before stirring until smooth. Allow ganache to cool slightly before spreading over your chilled cake.
Step 11: Decorate
Now comes the fun part—decorating! Add some lovely garnishes like chocolate shavings or sprinkles on top before refrigerating until you’re ready to serve.
And there you have it—an incredible Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every delicious bite!
Pro Tips for Making Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
Creating the perfect Tuxedo Cake can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve a stunning result!
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the batter mix evenly and rise better, resulting in a fluffier cake.
- Sift dry ingredients: Sifting flour and cocoa powder eliminates lumps and ensures an even texture in your cake, making it light and airy.
- Be patient with chilling: Allowing the mousse layers to set properly in the fridge is key to achieving that beautiful layered effect when slicing the cake—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
- Whip cream properly: Whipping the cream to stiff peaks before folding it into the chocolate mixtures adds lightness and body to your mousse, creating that luxurious texture.
- Use high-quality chocolate: The flavor of your cake heavily relies on the chocolate used, so opt for high-quality dark, milk, and white chocolates for a richer taste.
How to Serve Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
Presenting your Tuxedo Cake beautifully will enhance its appeal. Here are some ideas on how to serve this decadent dessert.
Garnishes
- Chocolate shavings: Shaving chocolate over the top adds an elegant touch and enhances the chocolatey goodness of the cake.
- Fresh berries: Adding strawberries or raspberries not only provides a pop of color but also balances out the richness with their natural tartness.
- Edible flowers: These can add an artistic flair to your presentation, making your cake look like a work of art!
Side Dishes
- Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream brings a lightness that complements the rich layers of chocolate in your cake.
- Vanilla ice cream: The creamy vanilla flavor contrasts perfectly with the intense chocolate flavors, creating a delightful pairing.
- Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can provide a bright contrast while cleansing the palate between bites of rich mousse.
- Coffee or espresso: Serving a small cup of coffee alongside enhances the flavors of chocolate and offers a comforting finish to your dessert experience.
With these serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress family and friends at any gathering! Enjoy every slice of this heavenly Tuxedo Cake.

Make Ahead and Storage
This Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance for special occasions or simply to enjoy throughout the week. Here are some tips on how to store and preserve your delicious creation.
Storing Leftovers
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For best taste and texture, consume within the first few days.
Freezing
- Slice the cake into individual portions for easier thawing.
- Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
- If you prefer your cake slightly warm, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place a slice of cake on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Alternatively, you can microwave a slice for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
FAQs
Have questions about this delicious dessert? Here are some common inquiries!
Can I make Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this cake a day or two in advance. Just store it properly in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What should I do if my chocolate mousse doesn’t set?
If your chocolate mousse isn’t setting properly, ensure that you’ve whipped your cream to stiff peaks before folding it into the chocolate mixture. If it’s still runny, refrigerating it longer may help it firm up.
Can I use different types of chocolate for Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different varieties of dark, milk, or white chocolate based on your preferences. Just remember that this may alter the flavor profile slightly.
How long does Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, this cake will last up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices.
What is the best way to decorate Tuxedo Cake?
You can get creative with decorations! Consider using chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or even edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in creating this delightful Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake! Its rich layers of chocolate mousse combined with moist cake layers make it truly special for any celebration or simply as a treat for yourself. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try. Happy baking!
Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
Indulge in the luxurious layers of Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake, a decadent dessert that promises to impress at any celebration. This stunning cake features rich chocolate layers complemented by velvety dark and white chocolate mousses, crowned with a glossy ganache. Every bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave your guests swooning. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply as a delightful treat for yourself, this cake is not only visually appealing but also surprisingly easy to make. Gather your loved ones around and dive into a slice of pure chocolate bliss!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 18 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- 1½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for mousse)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (for mousse)
- 2 cups heavy cream, divided (for mousse)
- 3.5 oz dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 4.5 oz white chocolate, finely chopped
- 5 oz milk chocolate, finely chopped (for ganache)
- ⅓ cup heavy cream (for ganache)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, sour cream, oil, and vanilla until smooth. Combine wet and dry ingredients.
- Dissolve espresso powder in hot water; stir into batter. Divide between pans and bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes completely on wire racks before leveling tops if needed.
- For mousses: Whisk egg yolks with sugar and cornstarch. Heat cream with vanilla; slowly add to egg mixture while whisking. Cook until thickened; pour over chopped chocolates—stir until smooth.
- Fold whipped cream into each chocolate mixture until airy.
- Assemble by layering cake with dark mousse first, then white mousse on top—repeat with remaining layers.
- Chill for at least four hours or overnight.
- For ganache: Heat cream until steaming; pour over chopped milk chocolate and stir until smooth—cool slightly before spreading on the cake.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
