Best Tuxedo Cake: Chocolate Mousse Recipe 2024

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The Tuxedo Cake is a simple and easy dessert that combines rich chocolate cake layers, creamy white chocolate mousse, smooth vanilla buttercream, and decadent dark chocolate ganache. This tuxedo cake not only tastes incredible but also looks spectacular, making it perfect for special occasions.

What Is a Tuxedo Cake?

A Tuxedo Cake is a show-stopping dessert celebrated for its elegant black and white contrast. This cake typically features three or more layers of moist, rich chocolate cake. Between these layers, you’ll find creamy fillings, often a combination of fluffy white chocolate mousse and dark chocolate mousse, adding a smooth and luscious texture.

The entire cake is then enveloped in a thick, glossy layer of dark chocolate ganache, which not only enhances the visual appeal but also intensifies the chocolate flavor. Some variations include brownie bits between the mousse layers for added texture and flavor.

I am well-versed in baking multiple layers of rich chocolate, as seen in my Molasses Cake, Hello Kitty cake and Chocolate Fudge Cake recipes. But this Tuxedo Cake is truly something special.

This dessert is renowned for its dramatic appearance, resembling the classic black-and-white attire of a tuxedo, hence the name. The Costco Tuxedo Cake is perfect for special occasions, offering a refined and rich treat that’s sure to impress both visually and with its rich, layered flavors.

You’ll Need Ingredients for Tuxedo Cake

For the Chocolate Cake Layers

1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup (240ml) whole milk
½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup (240ml) boiling water

For the White Chocolate Mousse

8 oz (225g) white chocolate, chopped
1 ½ cups (360ml) heavy cream, divided
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Dark Chocolate Ganache

8 oz (225g) dark chocolate, chopped
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

For the Vanilla Buttercream

1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

How to Make This Chocolate Tuxedo Mousse Cake

Step 1: Making the Chocolate Cake Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or use parchment paper to line them.
In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients gradually, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Gently stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, which is normal.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Making the White Chocolate Mousse

In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped white chocolate over a pot of simmering water or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with a hand mixer or stand mixer until stiff peaks form.
Fold the melted white chocolate and vanilla extract into the whipped cream until well mixed.
Refrigerate the mousse for at least 1 hour to set.

Step 3: Making the Dark Chocolate Ganache

In a saucepan, heat 1 cup of heavy cream until it just begins to simmer.
Place the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it rest for 2-3 minutes.
Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth. Let it cool slightly before using.

Step 4: Making the Vanilla Buttercream

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer until creamy and smooth.
Slowly add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed to prevent a cloud of sugar.
Once the sugar is incorporated, add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whip on high speed until the buttercream becomes light and fluffy.

Step 5: Assembling the Cake

If the cakes have domed tops, level them with a knife or cake leveler.
Set one cake layer on a serving plate or cake board. Spread a layer of white chocolate mousse over the cake.
Add the second cake layer on top of the mousse.
Apply a crumb coat (a thin layer of buttercream) over the entire cake. Chill for 30 minutes to set.
Frost the cake with the remaining vanilla buttercream. Smooth it out or create desired decorations.
Pour the slightly cooled dark chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides.
Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to let the mousse and ganache set properly.

Enjoy your luxurious Tuxedo Cake, a delightful combination of chocolate and vanilla that is sure to impress at any gathering!

NOTES FOR SUCCESS

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting for a smoother batter and better texture.
Sifting Dry Ingredients: Sifting the dry ingredients together helps avoid lumps in the batter.
Cooling Cakes Completely: Make sure the cakes are completely cooled before adding the mousse to prevent it from melting.
Gentle Folding: When making the mousse, fold the whipped cream gently into the white chocolate to maintain the light and airy texture.
Patience with Ganache: Allow the ganache to cool slightly so it thickens before pouring over the cake, ensuring it drips nicely without running off completely.
Decorate Creatively: Add chocolate shavings, curls, or sprinkles for an extra decorative touch.

Preparing and Storing the Tuxedo Cake in Advance

You can prepare the tuxedo cake layers ahead of time and freeze them, which makes the process more manageable.

The white and dark chocolate mousse can also be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

The chocolate ganache frosting can be prepared ahead of time as well. Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a month.

To store the assembled cake, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to a month. Cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture.

Tuxedo Cake: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the cake pattern?

Yes, you can change the cake pattern if you like. For instance, you might alternate the layers of chocolate and mousse, or place the mousse layers in between the cake layers differently. Just ensure the tuxedo cake remains stable and the layers are balanced for the best presentation.

Can I use a different size for the cake pans?

Yes, you can use different cake sizes. Adjust the baking time based on the size of the pans. For smaller pans, reduce the baking time, and for larger pans, increase it. Check the cake’s doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center. Also, you may need to adjust the quantity of mousse and ganache to match the size of the cake.

Can I substitute regular frosting for the ganache?

Yes, you can use regular frosting instead of ganache. Buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or whipped cream can be alternatives. However, note that these will give a different texture and flavor compared to ganache. Regular frosting might be lighter and less rich, so adjust the tuxedo cake recipe to suit your taste.

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