Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that will impress anyone, the Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake is just the ticket! This stunning cake marries rich chocolate flavors with light, airy mousses, creating a dessert that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly approachable. Each bite is a delightful experience, making it perfect for birthday celebrations, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in with loved ones.
What makes this recipe so special to me is how versatile it is. You can whip it up for special occasions or even enjoy it on a busy weeknight. It’s a great way to treat yourself and your family, bringing smiles around the table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent flavor: The combination of dark, white, and milk chocolates creates layers of rich taste that everyone will adore.
- Impressive presentation: With its elegant design and beautiful mousse layers, this cake looks as good as it tastes.
- Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this cake in advance, making it perfect for entertaining without the last-minute rush.
- Family-friendly appeal: Everyone from kids to adults will love digging into this delightful treat!
- Simple ingredients: With just a few basic pantry staples, you can create an extraordinary dessert that feels gourmet.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for the Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake is simple and fun! You’ll find these wholesome items easy to work with, ensuring a delicious outcome.
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 is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to suit your preferences or make it special for different occasions.
- Change the chocolate types: Use semi-sweet chocolate instead of dark if you prefer a slightly sweeter mousse.
- Add flavors: Incorporate orange zest or coffee into the mousses for an added layer of flavor.
- Fruit filling: Layer fresh berries between the mousse layers for a fruity twist that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this cake suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
How to Make Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cake
First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well combined. This step ensures that everything mixes evenly and gives your cake that perfect rise!
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, room temperature milk, sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. By incorporating these wet ingredients separately first, you ensure they blend into the dry mixture without any lumps.
Step 3: Combine Batter
Add your wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined. Then dissolve espresso powder in hot water and gently pour it into your batter. This addition enhances the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.
Step 4: Bake Your Cakes
Divide your batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake them in your preheated oven for about 35 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean! Let them cool completely in their pans before leveling their tops if needed.
Step 5: Prepare Chocolate Mousses
While your cakes cool down, get ready for those luscious mousses! Place finely chopped dark chocolate in one bowl and white chocolate in another. In a separate bowl whisk egg yolks with sugar and cornstarch until pale.
Step 6: Heat Cream Mixture
Heat one cup of heavy cream with vanilla extract over medium-low heat until steaming but not boiling. Slowly drizzle this hot cream into your egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly—this technique helps temper the eggs so they don’t scramble!
Step 7: Thicken Custard
Pour back into your saucepan and cook over medium heat while whisking until thickened and bubbling gently for about 1-2 minutes. This creates a smooth custard base for both chocolate mousses.
Step 8: Combine Custard with Chocolate
Pour half of your custard over each bowl of melted chocolate—dark and white—and stir until smooth. Fold whipped cream into each mixture until light and airy; this is what gives our mousses that dreamy texture!
Step 9: Assemble Your Cake
Place one layer of chocolate cake on a serving plate or board inside a cake ring. Spread dark chocolate mousse over it evenly before carefully layering white chocolate mousse on top. Chill in the fridge while you prepare for layer two!
Step 10: Final Layer & Chill
Once mousse layers are set after about 30 minutes in the fridge, place your second cake layer on top. Cover it with plastic wrap or foil and chill in your refrigerator for at least four hours—or overnight if you can wait!
Step 11: Make Chocolate Ganache
For that glossy finish we all adore! Heat remaining heavy cream until steaming again; pour it over finely chopped milk chocolate letting sit before stirring until smooth.
Step 12: Finish & Decorate
Once ganache cools slightly but remains spreadable—cover chilled cake generously pushing gently towards edges! Feel free to garnish with chocolate shavings or sprinkles before refrigerating again until it’s time to serve—enjoy every slice of this heavenly Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake!
Pro Tips for Making Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
Creating a stunning Tuxedo Cake at home is easier than you might think! Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect dessert.
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Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures better mixing and helps create a smoother batter, leading to a more even cake texture.
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Sift your dry ingredients: Sifting flour, cocoa powder, and other dry elements removes lumps and aerates them, which can result in a lighter cake.
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Chill between layers: Allowing the mousse layers to set in the fridge not only improves the texture but also makes the assembly process much easier and cleaner.
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Make it ahead of time: This cake benefits from resting overnight in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully, and it will be ready to impress your guests when you need it.
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Customize your toppings: Feel free to get creative with the garnishes; adding seasonal fruits or edible flowers can elevate the presentation and add a fresh touch.
How to Serve Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
Serving your Tuxedo Cake can be as delightful as making it! With a little creativity, you can turn this dessert into a showstopper on any table.
Garnishes
- Chocolate shavings: A sprinkle of dark or white chocolate shavings on top adds elegance and an extra chocolatey flavor.
- Fresh berries: Strawberries or raspberries not only look beautiful but also provide a nice tart contrast to the rich mousse.
- Mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves can brighten up the presentation and add a refreshing aroma.
Side Dishes
- Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the rich layers of chocolate perfectly, creating a classic pairing.
- Whipped cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can be served alongside for those who enjoy an extra touch of fluffiness with their cake.
- Fruit compote: A berry compote made from blended berries simmered with a bit of sugar can add a fruity zing that balances out the richness.
- Coffee or tea: Offering brewed coffee or herbal tea as beverages will enhance the overall experience, especially with chocolate desserts.
Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions in hand, you’re ready to create an unforgettable dessert experience with your Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to indulge in a delicious dessert without the last-minute rush. You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it later, making it an ideal treat for special occasions or everyday celebrations.
Storing Leftovers
- Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and freshness.
- If the ganache begins to harden, simply let the cake sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.
Freezing
- Slice the cake into individual portions for easy thawing.
- Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
- For best results, enjoy the cake chilled as it is already a delightful treat.
- If you prefer it warm, gently heat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power.
- Avoid overheating as this can affect the mousse texture.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making this delectable Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake.
Can I use different types of chocolate for this Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake?
Absolutely! While dark and white chocolate are traditional, feel free to experiment with milk chocolate or other varieties that you love. Just keep in mind that different chocolates have varying sweetness levels and melting properties.
How long does it take to set the mousse layers in the Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake?
The mousse layers should chill for at least 30 minutes after being spread over the cake layer. However, chilling the entire assembled cake for at least 4 hours (or overnight) is recommended to ensure it sets perfectly.
Is there a substitute for sour cream in this recipe?
Yes! You can use plain yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt alternative if you prefer. Both options will provide similar moisture and tanginess without compromising flavor.
What can I use instead of eggs in this Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) or a commercial egg replacer. Just keep in mind that this might slightly alter the texture of your cake and mousse.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making this Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake! It’s a showstopper that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, perfect for impressing family and friends. Enjoy every moment of your baking journey, whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pro. Happy baking!
Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
Indulge in the luxurious Tuxedo Cake – Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake, a stunning dessert that elegantly layers rich dark chocolate, creamy milk chocolate, and silky white chocolate mousses. This cake not only captivates with its impressive presentation but also delights with its harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for celebrations or cozy evenings at home, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and offers the flexibility to customize according to your taste. Impress your family and friends with this showstopper that’s sure to become a favorite!
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 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, room temperature
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup sour cream, room temperature
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp espresso powder
- 1 cup hot water
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 cups heavy cream, divided
- 3.5 oz dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 4.5 oz white chocolate, finely chopped
- 5 oz milk chocolate, finely chopped
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, mix 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 ingredients with dry ingredients; gradually add hot water.
- Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for about 35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
- For the mousses: Whisk egg yolks with sugar and cornstarch in one bowl; heat cream with vanilla in another until steaming.
- Temper the egg mixture with hot cream; cook until thickened.
- Pour custard over each type of melted chocolate—dark and white—stir until smooth; fold in whipped cream for lightness.
- Layer dark mousse over one cake layer; top with white mousse; chill for at least 30 minutes before adding the second cake layer on top.
- Chill assembled cake for four hours or overnight.
- Make ganache by heating remaining cream; pour over chopped milk chocolate and stir until smooth.
- Spread ganache over chilled cake and decorate as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (95g)
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg