Tuxedo Cake: A Decadent Chocolate and Vanilla Layered Dessert

Tuxedo cake is an elegant and indulgent dessert that perfectly balances rich layers of chocolate and vanilla. Its sleek black-and-white appearance resembles a classic tuxedo, which gives the cake its name. With moist chocolate cake layers, creamy vanilla mousse, and a luscious chocolate ganache topping, this cake is sure to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge your sweet tooth, tuxedo cake is a must-try recipe for chocolate and vanilla lovers alike.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the perfect tuxedo cake, breaking down each layer to create a stunning and delicious dessert. Let’s get started on this beautiful black-and-white creation!

What is Tuxedo Cake?

Tuxedo cake is a layered dessert that combines chocolate and vanilla flavors in an elegant presentation. It typically consists of rich chocolate cake layers, a light vanilla or white chocolate mousse filling, and a shiny chocolate ganache or glaze. The contrast of dark chocolate and creamy white mousse makes this cake look as sophisticated as it tastes, resembling a classic black-and-white tuxedo.

This cake is a favorite for formal events, celebrations, or any time you want to make an impression with a beautiful, layered dessert. With its perfect balance of flavors, tuxedo cake offers a satisfying combination of rich, dark chocolate and creamy vanilla.

Why You’ll Love Tuxedo Cake

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with tuxedo cake:

1. Rich Flavor Combination

The pairing of chocolate and vanilla creates a beautifully balanced flavor profile. The deep richness of the chocolate is perfectly complemented by the light and creamy vanilla layers.

2. Beautiful Presentation

With its striking black-and-white contrast, tuxedo cake is a showstopper. The smooth, glossy ganache and layered filling make it visually stunning, perfect for special occasions like birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries.

3. Variety of Textures

This cake isn’t just about looks—it also offers a delightful combination of textures. From the dense, moist chocolate cake to the fluffy mousse and silky ganache, each bite is a harmonious mix of richness and lightness.

Ingredients for Tuxedo Cake

To make this stunning tuxedo cake, you’ll need the following ingredients. The recipe involves three main components: the chocolate cake layers, the vanilla mousse filling, and the chocolate ganache topping.

Chocolate Cake Ingredients:

• All-purpose flour (200g): The base for your cake.
• Cocoa powder (50g): For deep, chocolatey flavor.
• Granulated sugar (200g): Adds sweetness and moisture.
• Baking powder (1 tsp): Helps the cake rise.
• Baking soda (½ tsp): Ensures a light texture.
• Salt (½ tsp): Enhances the flavors.
• Eggs (2 large): Bind the ingredients together.
• Vegetable oil (120ml): Keeps the cake moist.
• Buttermilk (240ml): Adds tang and tenderness.
• Boiling water (120ml): Helps bloom the cocoa for a richer flavor.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Balances the chocolate flavor.

Vanilla Mousse Ingredients:

• White chocolate (150g, melted): The base for the mousse.
• Heavy cream (300ml, chilled): Whipped to create a fluffy texture.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the flavor of the mousse.
• Gelatin (1 tsp): Helps set the mousse.

Chocolate Ganache Ingredients:

• Dark chocolate (200g, chopped): For the rich, glossy topping.
• Heavy cream (200ml): Adds smoothness to the ganache.
• Butter (1 tbsp): Gives the ganache a glossy finish.

How to Make Tuxedo Cake: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating the perfect tuxedo cake involves a few key steps: baking the chocolate cake layers, preparing the mousse, and finishing it with a chocolate ganache. Follow these steps to make your own black-and-white masterpiece:

1st Step: Bake the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Slowly pour in the boiling water, mixing until the batter is smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

2nd Step: Make the Vanilla Mousse

1. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the vanilla mousse. Melt the white chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes. Heat the gelatin until fully dissolved.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract to soft peaks.
4. Slowly fold the melted white chocolate and dissolved gelatin into the whipped cream until smooth and fluffy. Refrigerate the mousse for 30 minutes to firm up slightly.

3rd Step: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cake layers have cooled, level them if needed by trimming the tops with a sharp knife.
2. Place one layer of cake on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of the vanilla mousse evenly over the top.
3. Add the second cake layer on top, pressing gently to adhere. Spread a thin layer of mousse on top of the cake as a crumb coat. Refrigerate for 20 minutes to set the mousse.

4th step: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

1. To make the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped dark chocolate.
2. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Stir in the butter for extra shine.

5th Step: Decorate with Ganache

1. Pour the ganache over the top of the chilled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a dramatic effect.
2. Use a spatula to smooth the ganache over the top and sides of the cake.
3. Refrigerate the cake for 1-2 hours to set the ganache before serving.

Tips for Perfect Tuxedo Cake

Baking a perfect tuxedo cake can be a little tricky, but these tips will help ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time:

1. Use Quality Chocolate

For the best flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate in your cake and ganache. The richness of the chocolate makes all the difference in the final taste.

2. Chill Between Layers

Chilling the cake after adding the mousse helps keep the layers stable and makes it easier to spread the ganache on top.

3. Smooth Ganache Application

For a flawless finish, pour the ganache while it’s still warm and use a spatula to gently spread it. The ganache should be thin enough to drip down the sides but thick enough to cover the cake evenly.

Nutritional Information for Tuxedo Cake

Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional content for one slice of tuxedo cake (based on a 12-slice cake):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 25g
• Sugar: 45g

FAQs About Tuxedo Cake

Q: What makes a tuxedo cake different from other chocolate cakes?

A: Tuxedo cake combines layers of chocolate cake with a vanilla or white chocolate mousse and is topped with a rich chocolate ganache. The black-and-white appearance gives it its “tuxedo” name.

Q: Can I make tuxedo cake ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can bake the cake layers and prepare the mousse up to a day in advance. Assemble the cake and add the ganache the day you plan to serve it for the best presentation.

Q: How do I store tuxedo cake?

A: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the cake sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to soften the mousse and ganache.

Q: Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for the ganache?

A: Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter ganache. Just keep in mind that milk chocolate is less rich than dark chocolate, so it may result in a slightly different flavor.

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With its stunning layers and rich flavors, tuxedo cake is the perfect dessert for special occasions or a decadent treat anytime. The combination of chocolate cake, vanilla mousse, and chocolate ganache makes for a show-stopping dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Happy baking!