Tuxedo Cake

Tuxedo Cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers and those who crave an elegant and indulgent treat. This stunning cake earns its name from its classic black-and-white layers, reminiscent of a tuxedo. With rich, moist chocolate cake layers, creamy white chocolate mousse, dark chocolate ganache, and a glossy chocolate glaze, Tuxedo Cake is as impressive to look at as it is to eat.

Perfect for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or holiday celebrations, this multi-layered cake is a showstopper on any dessert table. Despite its elaborate appearance, making a Tuxedo Cake is simpler than you might think when broken down into manageable steps. Each component—from the fudgy cake layers to the silky mousse and ganache—can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on assembly when you’re ready to create this masterpiece.

If you love the combination of dark chocolate, white chocolate, and creamy textures, this dessert will exceed your expectations. The balance of flavors and textures, with layers that are both light and decadent, makes every bite a luxurious experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create a Tuxedo Cake that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant Presentation: The black-and-white layers create a visually striking dessert that’s perfect for special occasions.
• Rich Chocolate Flavor: Layers of dark chocolate cake, white chocolate mousse, and chocolate ganache make this a chocolate lover’s dream.
• Creamy Texture: The mousse and ganache add silky smoothness to balance the fudgy cake layers.
• Versatile: This cake can be customized with different decorations or flavor accents, like berries or espresso.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Each layer can be prepared in advance, making it easier to assemble on the day of serving.
• Impressive but Doable: While it looks like a professional bakery creation, the recipe is broken down into steps that anyone can follow.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 2 hours
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Chilling Time: 4-6 hours (or overnight)
• Total Time: 6-8 hours (including chilling time)
• Yield: 12-14 servings
• Serving Size: 1 slice

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 40g

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake Layers

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
• 1½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 1 cup hot water or coffee (coffee enhances the chocolate flavor)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the White Chocolate Mousse

• 1½ cups heavy cream, chilled
• 8 ounces white chocolate, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
• 2 tablespoons cold water

For the Dark Chocolate Ganache

• 8 ounces dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), finely chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Chocolate Glaze

• 4 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon corn syrup or honey (for shine)

Optional Decorations

• Chocolate curls or shavings
• Fresh berries (strawberries or raspberries)
• Powdered sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cake Layers

1. Prepare the Oven and Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottoms of two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another large bowl, whisk together the sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
5. Add Hot Liquid: Slowly pour in the hot water or coffee, stirring until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin—this is normal.
6. Bake the Cakes: 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.
7. Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the White Chocolate Mousse

1. Melt the White Chocolate: Place the chopped white chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat ½ cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the white chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes. Stir until smooth, then set aside to cool slightly.
2. Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom. Microwave the gelatin for 10 seconds to dissolve, then stir into the melted white chocolate mixture.
3. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the remaining 1 cup of heavy cream and vanilla extract to soft peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the white chocolate mixture in three additions, being careful not to deflate the mousse. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Step 3: Make the Dark Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
2. Combine with Chocolate: Place the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes. Add the butter and stir until the ganache is smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly to a spreadable consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Level the Cake Layers: Use a serrated knife to trim the tops of the cakes if they are domed, creating even layers.
2. Add the Mousse Layer: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake board. Spread the white chocolate mousse evenly over the top, smoothing it with an offset spatula.
3. Top with Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top of the mousse, pressing gently to secure it.
4. Spread Ganache: Use the dark chocolate ganache to frost the top and sides of the cake. Smooth the ganache with a spatula or cake scraper for a polished finish. Refrigerate for 1 hour to set.

Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Glaze

1. Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and corn syrup until it just begins to simmer.
2. Combine with Chocolate: Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream mixture over the chocolate and stir until smooth. Let the glaze cool slightly until it thickens to a pourable consistency.

Step 6: Glaze the Cake

1. Apply the Glaze: Pour the chocolate glaze over the top of the chilled cake, letting it drip down the sides for a dramatic effect. Use a spatula to smooth the top if needed.
2. Decorate: Garnish the cake with chocolate curls, fresh berries, or powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the layers to set. Before serving, let the cake sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to soften slightly. Slice and serve, and enjoy every decadent bite!

Ingredient Background

Cocoa Powder: Dutch-processed cocoa powder is recommended for its rich, smooth flavor. It also provides a deep, dark color to the cake.
White Chocolate: Use high-quality white chocolate for the mousse to achieve a smooth and creamy texture. Avoid white chocolate chips, which often contain stabilizers that prevent melting.
Dark Chocolate: Choose dark chocolate with 70% cocoa for the ganache and glaze. The bittersweet flavor balances the sweetness of the cake and mousse.
Gelatin: Stabilizes the white chocolate mousse, ensuring it holds its shape when layered in the cake.

Technique Tips

1. Chill Between Steps: Chill the cake layers, mousse, and ganache as needed to make assembly easier and prevent layers from slipping.
2. Use a Cake Turntable: A turntable makes it easier to frost and glaze the cake evenly.
3. Create Clean Slices: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between slices for a professional finish.
4. Don’t Skip the Gelatin: The gelatin is essential for stabilizing the mousse and keeping it firm in the cake.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Mini Tuxedo Cakes: Use 4-inch round cake pans to create individual-sized cakes for an elegant dessert.
• Sheet Cake Style: Bake the cake batter in a 9×13-inch pan and layer with mousse and ganache for a simpler presentation.
• Cupcake Version: Turn this recipe into cupcakes by layering mousse and ganache on top of chocolate cupcakes.

Additional Tips for Success

• Plan Ahead: This cake is best made over two days. Prepare the cake layers and mousse on the first day, and assemble and glaze the cake on the second day.
• Keep it Cool: Store the cake in the refrigerator to keep the mousse and ganache stable.
• Decorate Creatively: Add gold leaf, edible glitter, or piped frosting for a luxurious touch.

Recipe Variations

1. Espresso Tuxedo Cake: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the cake batter for a coffee-chocolate twist.
2. Berry-Filled Cake: Add a layer of fresh raspberries or strawberry compote between the mousse and cake layers.
3. Salted Caramel Tuxedo Cake: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the mousse layer for a sweet-and-salty contrast.
4. Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the cake suitable for gluten-free diets.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store the assembled cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
• Freeze the Cake Layers: Wrap cooled cake layers in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before assembling.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Dinner Parties: Serve Tuxedo Cake as a dramatic finale to a formal dinner.
• Weddings or Anniversaries: Decorate the cake with fresh flowers for a romantic touch.
• Holiday Celebrations: Add edible gold accents or festive decorations for a seasonal twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes! The cake can be made 1-2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
2. What if I don’t have gelatin? Substitute with agar-agar for a vegetarian option, but note that the texture may differ slightly.
3. Can I use milk chocolate? You can, but the cake may be sweeter. Adjust the sugar levels if needed.
4. How do I transport this cake? Chill the cake well and transport it in a sturdy cake carrier to keep it stable.

Conclusion

Tuxedo Cake is a decadent, elegant dessert that combines the best of chocolate and cream in every bite. With its stunning layers of chocolate cake, white chocolate mousse, and ganache, this cake is as delicious as it is beautiful. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, this recipe delivers every time. Follow these steps, and you’ll create a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy!

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