Go Back
–+ servings

Rich Dark Chocolate Cake with Creamy Mousse Filling

Rose
If you’re a chocolate lover, this Rich Dark Chocolate Cake with Creamy Mousse Filling is your ultimate indulgence. Layers of moist dark chocolate cake are paired with fluffy, silky chocolate mousse and topped with a smooth ganache that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or any time you want a decadent treat, this cake balances intense chocolate flavor with a light, airy texture.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 slices
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 8-inch round cake pans Greased and lined with parchment
  • mixing bowls
  • whisk
  • spatula
  • saucepan for ganache
  • wire rack
  • serving plate

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup hot water or strong brewed coffee
  • ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp hot water
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • Optional garnish: fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or cocoa powder

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans with parchment.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • In another bowl, mix eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
  • Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth. Slowly add hot water or coffee, mixing carefully. Batter will be thin.
  • Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely on wire racks.
  • In a small bowl, whisk cocoa powder and hot water until smooth. Stir in chopped chocolate until melted and glossy. Let cool slightly.
  • In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla to medium peaks.
  • Gently fold in the chocolate mixture, combining thoroughly but keeping mousse light and airy.
  • Chill mousse for at least 2 hours until set.
  • Level cake layers if needed for an even stack.
  • Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the mousse evenly on top.
  • Add the second cake layer and spread remaining mousse over it. Chill for 30–60 minutes to firm.
  • Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer.
  • Pour hot cream over chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let sit 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
  • Allow ganache to cool slightly, then pour over chilled cake, letting it drip over the edges naturally.
  • Decorate with optional berries or chocolate shavings. Chill until ready to serve.

Notes

Cocoa powder: Use natural unsweetened cocoa for a brighter chocolate flavor, or Dutch-processed for a darker, smoother taste. Coffee instead of water enhances chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee. For dairy-free versions, use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and plant-based milk with vinegar instead of buttermilk. No eggs? Replace each egg with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce for a moist, vegan-friendly cake.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 6gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 40gVitamin A: 600IUCalcium: 60mgIron: 3mg
Keyword birthday cake, celebration cake, chocolate cake, ganache, mousse cake
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!