As I stood by the oven, the sweet scent of chocolate wafting through the air, I was transported back to cozy family gatherings filled with laughter and shared slices of cake. This Supreme Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Mousse Filling is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of life’s sweetest moments. Crafted for both novice bakers and seasoned pros, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity, allowing you to impress loved ones without the fuss. With a fluffy cake layered with silky chocolate mousse, it’s the kind of treat that turns any occasion into a festive gathering. And yes, you can enjoy this delightful masterpiece while knowing that it’s surprisingly easy to make! So, are you ready to whip up a dessert that will create memories with every bite?
Why is this cake a must-try?
Decadent, Rich Chocolate: This Supreme Chocolate Cake is a chocolate lover’s dream, featuring layers of velvety mousse that will melt in your mouth.
Simple Steps: You’ll find that this recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Just bake, layer, and indulge!
Visual Showstopper: With its glossy ganache finish, this cake not only tastes divine but also looks stunning on any dessert table.
Versatile Treat: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or any gathering, this cake will steal the spotlight and satisfy every sweet tooth, just like my Mini Dessert Cake or Red Velvet Cake.
Perfect for Sharing: Gather friends and family around for a slice of this indulgent treat, and watch as smiles light up the room!
Supreme Chocolate Cake Ingredients
• Discover the key components for your decadent masterpiece.
For the Cake
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure for the cake; substitute with cake flour for a lighter texture.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetness and moisture retention; coconut sugar offers a less refined option.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – Brings rich chocolate flavor; use Dutch-processed cocoa for a milder taste.
- Baking soda and baking powder – Essential leavening agents; make sure they are fresh for best results.
- Table salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
- Hot water – Activates cocoa and aids even mixing.
- Instant espresso powder – Intensifies chocolate flavor without coffee taste; can be omitted if desired.
- Large eggs – Binds the cake and adds moisture; ensure they are room temperature for best mixing.
- Milk – Adds richness and moisture; almond milk works for a dairy-free alternative.
- Greek yogurt – Contributes moisture; can be swapped for sour cream.
- Pure vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor; avoid imitation for the best results.
For the Mousse
- Heavy cream – Whipped for luxurious mousse texture.
- Chocolate chips – Key flavor for both mousse and ganache; choose dark chocolate for richer flavor.
- Nutella – Adds sweetness and hazelnut flavor to the mousse; omit and increase chocolate chips for a purer taste.
For the Ganache
- Butter – Optional but adds shine and richness to the ganache.
Now you have everything you need to create your Supreme Chocolate Cake! Let’s get baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Supreme Chocolate Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grab two 9-inch round cake pans and generously grease them with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This ensures your Supreme Chocolate Cake will release easily after baking. It’s also helpful to line the bottom with parchment paper for extra security against sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of granulated sugar, ¾ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of table salt. Mix until everything is well blended and you see a uniform color, which is key to making sure your cake rises evenly.
Step 3: Mix the Espresso Solution
Next, in a separate bowl, mix together 1 ½ cups of hot water and 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder until the espresso is fully dissolved. This delicious mixture will amplify the chocolate flavors in your cake, creating a deeper, more indulgent taste. Set this aside to cool slightly while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 4: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In another mixing bowl, combine 3 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, ½ cup of Greek yogurt, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Whisk until you achieve a light mixture; it should look creamy and smooth. Gradually add your dry ingredients to this mixture, stirring until just incorporated to avoid overmixing, then blend in the espresso solution for a rich, velvety batter.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Carefully divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As they bake, you’ll notice a delightful aroma filling your kitchen, heightening the anticipation for your Supreme Chocolate Cake!
Step 6: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for around 10 minutes. After cooling slightly, gently run a knife around the edges to loosen the cake, then invert each onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to prevent sogginess and achieve the perfect cake texture.
Step 7: Prepare the Mousse
For the mousse, dissolve ½ cup of cocoa powder in ¼ cup of hot water until smooth. In a double boiler, melt 1 cup of chocolate chips over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Once both mixtures are ready, set them aside to cool while you whip the heavy cream into stiff peaks to create that luscious mousse texture.
Step 8: Combine Mousse Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled chocolate mixture with the whipped cream, adding ½ cup of Nutella for an extra layer of flavor. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate; this ensures a light and airy mousse. Refrigerate the mousse for at least 30 minutes to help it set perfectly before assembling your Supreme Chocolate Cake.
Step 9: Slice the Cakes
Once the cakes have completely cooled, use a long serrated knife to carefully slice each cake layer horizontally into two even layers. This will give you a total of four layers, allowing for beautiful stacking and filling. It’s important to do this gently to maintain the integrity of each layer.
Step 10: Assemble the Cake
Start layering your cake by placing one layer on a serving plate and spreading a generous amount of mousse filling on top. Repeat this with the next two layers, using the mousse generously between each layer. Once assembled, reserve some mousse to spread on top, giving your Supreme Chocolate Cake a beautiful finish.
Step 11: Chill the Assembled Cake
Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours or overnight. Chilling helps the layers meld beautifully together, creating a cohesive and delicious dessert. This also allows the mousse to firm up, making it easier to slice when you’re ready to serve.
Step 12: Prepare and Pour Ganache
To make the ganache, heat 1 cup of heavy cream in a saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour it over 2 cups of chocolate chips and let it sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth. The ganache should be glossy and pourable. Pour this warm ganache over the chilled cake, letting it cascade down the sides for that show-stopping finish.
Make Ahead Options
These Supreme Chocolate Cake layers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bake the cake layers and prepare the mousse filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the cooled cakes in an airtight container and the mousse in the refrigerator to maintain its silky texture. The cake can also be assembled a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while chilling overnight. When you’re ready to serve, finish your masterpiece by preparing the ganache and pouring it over the chilled cake. This way, you’ll have a stunning dessert that tastes just as delicious with minimal last-minute effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions!
Expert Tips for Supreme Chocolate Cake
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing, creating a light and fluffy cake texture.
Serrated Knife Use: Use a long serrated knife for slicing the cakes evenly; this prevents tearing and helps achieve beautiful layers.
Mousse Refrigeration: Always refrigerate the mousse after preparation; it ensures the structure holds up during assembly, avoiding slippage.
Chill Before Ganache: Chill the assembled cake before pouring the ganache; this will help the chocolate sauce set perfectly, creating that glossy finish.
Avoid Freezing: Do not freeze the assembled cake, as this can lead to sogginess; refrigerate instead to maintain ideal texture for your Supreme Chocolate Cake.
What to Serve with Supreme Chocolate Cake
Treat your guests to a feast of flavors that perfectly complement every luscious bite of this rich chocolate delight.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries contrasts beautifully with the sweet chocolate, adding a refreshing burst to your dessert table.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, a scoop of high-quality vanilla ice cream balances the cake’s richness and offers a delightful temperature contrast.
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Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup enhances the chocolate experience, invoking a cozy atmosphere that invites lingering conversation and shared memories.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a little extra chocolate sauce adds a touch of indulgence, making each slice even more decadent than before.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream brings a plush texture to each bite, making it a delightful addition that enhances the cake’s richness.
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Mint Leaves: Fresh mint not only adds a pop of color but its refreshing flavor complements the cake, making it feel lighter and more elegant.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of rich caramel creates a sweet contrast that elevates your cake to a new level of decadence, pleasing even the most discerning dessert lovers.
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Sparkling Water: For a refreshing palate cleanser, serve bubbly sparkling water infused with citrus that cuts through the cake’s sweetness and leaves guests feeling refreshed.
Creating a perfect pairing experience will make your Supreme Chocolate Cake the star of any occasion, filling hearts and bellies with joy.
Supreme Chocolate Cake Variations
Feel free to create your own twist on this delectable cake, unleashing your creativity in the kitchen!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a cake everyone can enjoy.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and coconut cream instead of heavy cream and milk for a dairy-free alternative that’s equally luscious.
- Flavor Twist: Add a splash of orange zest to the mousse for a refreshing citrus kick, or try peppermint extract for a festive touch.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like hazelnuts or walnuts into the mousse for a delicious crunch that enhances the texture.
- Fruit Infusion: Layer fresh raspberries or strawberries between the cake layers for a burst of fruity flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
- Caffeine Boost: Amp up the espresso flavor by doubling the instant espresso powder in the cake to intensify the chocolate richness.
- Mousse Enhancer: Replace Nutella with creamy peanut butter in the mousse for a delightful chocolate-peanut butter fusion.
- Decadent Drizzle: Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce along with the ganache for an extra layer of indulgence that will leave your guests in awe.
Don’t forget to check out our Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake or customize your own Wheat Pumpkin Pancakes for even more delightful dessert options!
How to Store and Freeze Supreme Chocolate Cake
Fridge: Store the assembled cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: If you must freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and they can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: Allow frozen slices to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying. You can warm them gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a delightful treat!
Avoid Freezing Assembled Cake: Note that freezing the entire cake is not recommended, as it may cause the mousse to become soggy. Always opt for refrigerating instead!
Supreme Chocolate Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for my cake?
Absolutely! For a fantastic Supreme Chocolate Cake, ensure your cocoa powder is fresh for rich flavor. Look for baking items without dark spots and check expiration dates. Opt for high-quality chocolate chips for the ganache, as they significantly impact the cake’s taste. Fresh eggs are imperative; their shells should be clean and free of cracks, as this affects moisture and texture.
How should I store my Supreme Chocolate Cake?
Store the assembled cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and moist while also preventing it from absorbing other odors. If you notice the surface getting a bit hard, cover it lightly with plastic wrap. For short-term enjoyment, this method works wonderfully!
Can I freeze my Supreme Chocolate Cake?
Yes, you can freeze individual slices! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight. For an extra treat, warm them gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to enhance the chocolatey goodness.
What should I do if my cake layers are uneven?
Very much! If your cake layers turned out uneven, you can use a long serrated knife to level them. Simply carefully slice off the domed top to achieve flat layers. This makes for a prettier cake and ensures even mousse distribution. Don’t stress; even the pros encounter this!
Are there any dietary concerns I should consider with this cake?
Of course! To cater to dietary needs, you can replace milk with almond milk for a dairy-free option. For gluten sensitivity, opt for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Always check the labels for allergens, especially for eggs, dairy, and chocolate, which can contain traces of other allergens. Always check with your guests if they have any allergies!
Irresistible Supreme Chocolate Cake with Silky Mousse Filling
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them.
- Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl: flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix hot water and espresso powder in a separate bowl until dissolved.
- In another bowl, combine eggs, milk, yogurt, and vanilla; whisk until light.
- Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into wet mixture, then blend in espresso solution.
- Divide the batter between prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in pans for 10 minutes then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- For the mousse, dissolve cocoa powder in hot water, melt chocolate chips, and whip heavy cream.
- Combine cooled chocolate with whipped cream and Nutella; refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Slice each cake layer horizontally to create four layers for assembly.
- Layer cake with mousse, reserving some for the top, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Prepare ganache by heating cream and pouring over chocolate chips until smooth; pour over chilled cake.
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