Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake with Berries

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is a chocolate lover’s dream, showcasing three different chocolate textures and flavors—from the dense cake to the airy white chocolate mousse and the silky ganache. The fresh berries add a burst of color and refreshing tartness, balancing the rich chocolate perfectly. It’s a stunning showstopper for any special occasion or celebration.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chocolate Cake Base:

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup buttermilk (or milk + ½ tsp vinegar)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 large egg

For the White Chocolate Mousse:

• 200g white chocolate, chopped
• 1 ½ cups cold heavy cream, divided
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp unflavored gelatin (optional, for stability)
• 2 tbsp cold water (if using gelatin)

For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:

• 150g semisweet chocolate, chopped
• ½ cup heavy cream

For Garnish:

• Fresh strawberries
• Fresh blueberries

Directions

1. Make the chocolate cake base: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan. In a bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. In another bowl, mix vegetable oil, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and egg. Combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth. Pour batter into the pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
2. Prepare the white chocolate mousse: If using gelatin, sprinkle it over cold water and let bloom for 5 minutes. Melt white chocolate gently and let cool slightly. Whip 1 cup heavy cream with vanilla extract to soft peaks. If using gelatin, warm it gently until melted and mix into the melted chocolate. Fold whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until smooth.
3. Spread the white chocolate mousse evenly over the cooled cake base. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until set.
4. Make the chocolate ganache: Heat heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over chopped semisweet chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy. Pour ganache over the chilled mousse layer, spreading evenly. Chill again for at least 1 hour.
5. Garnish: Before serving, decorate the cake with fresh strawberries and blueberries.

Servings and Timing

• Makes 8-10 servings
• Preparation time: 30 minutes
• Baking time: 25-30 minutes
• Chilling time: 3+ hours

Variations

• Use dark or milk chocolate for the ganache if preferred.
• Add a layer of crushed cookies or nuts between the cake and mousse for texture.
• Substitute raspberries or blackberries for garnish.
• Add a splash of liqueur to the mousse for an adult version.

Storage/Reheating

• Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Do not freeze mousse layers as texture may be affected.
• Serve chilled; avoid reheating.

FAQs

Can I omit gelatin in the mousse?

Yes, but the mousse may be softer and less stable.

Can I use store-bought cake instead of baking?

Yes, a chocolate sponge or brownie base can be used.

How do I avoid the ganache from hardening too much?

Serve the cake slightly chilled, and use cream with at least 35% fat content.

Can I prepare the cake ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate overnight for best flavor.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Use dairy-free chocolate and cream substitutes.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

Mix milk with ½ tsp vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes.

How do I get a smooth mousse texture?

Fold whipped cream gently into melted chocolate to keep mousse airy.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double ingredients and use a larger pan or multiple pans.

Can I use other berries for garnish?

Yes, raspberries, blackberries, or mixed berries work well.

How do I store leftover ganache?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week; gently reheat before use.

Conclusion

Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake with Berries is a decadent and elegant dessert that combines rich chocolate flavors with light, creamy mousse and fresh fruit. Perfect for celebrations or when you want to impress, this cake offers a beautiful presentation and unforgettable taste.

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