Raspberry Chocolate Mousse Cake: A Decadent Dessert for Every Occasion
Some desserts feel like pure romance on a plate, and Raspberry Chocolate Mousse Cake is certainly one of them. Rich, silky chocolate mousse layered over a moist cake base and crowned with vibrant raspberries creates a perfect harmony of flavors. Each bite delivers a balance of deep chocolate indulgence and fruity freshness, making it a dessert that delights both chocolate lovers and fruit enthusiasts alike.
Unlike simple cakes, this mousse cake has a refined, almost luxurious appeal. It’s the kind of dessert you’d expect to see at a fine bakery or served at a dinner party, yet it can be made right in your own kitchen with a bit of patience and care. The airy texture of the mousse complements the density of the cake, while the raspberries cut through the richness with their tart-sweet brightness.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a breakdown of the main ingredients with approximate calorie counts (per portion may vary):
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Dark chocolate (70%) | 8 oz | 1,200 |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (1 stick) | 800 |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | 775 |
| Large eggs | 4 | 280 |
| Heavy cream | 2 cups | 1,640 |
| Fresh raspberries | 2 cups | 120 |
| Cocoa powder (unsweetened) | 2 tbsp | 25 |
| All-purpose flour | ½ cup | 225 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | 12 |
| Powdered sugar (for dusting) | 2 tbsp | 60 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1: Bake the Cake Base
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottom of a springform pan.
- Melt butter and 4 oz of dark chocolate together until smooth.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Fold in the melted chocolate mixture, flour, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.
- Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, until set. Let cool completely.
2: Prepare the Chocolate Mousse
- Melt the remaining 4 oz of chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it cool slightly.
- Whip 1 ½ cups of heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream until smooth and airy.
3: Assemble the Cake
- Spread the chocolate mousse evenly over the cooled cake base.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until the mousse is set.
4: Add Raspberries and Finish
- Arrange fresh raspberries on top of the chilled mousse layer.
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Flavored mousse: Add a tablespoon of raspberry puree or liqueur to the mousse for a fruity twist.
- Extra crunch: Sprinkle crushed chocolate cookies or nuts between the cake and mousse layers.
- Gluten-free option: Swap the all-purpose flour in the cake base with almond flour.
- Elegant topping: Glaze the raspberries with a thin layer of warmed raspberry jam for a glossy finish.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380–420 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Fat | 27g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 22g |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream on the side.
- Pair with a glass of red wine, champagne, or a strong espresso for an elegant touch.
- Garnish with shaved dark chocolate or mint leaves for a bakery-style presentation.
- Slice into smaller squares for bite-sized party desserts.
Raspberry Chocolate Mousse Cake: A Decadent Dessert for Every Occasion
12
servings30
minutes25
minutes380-420
kcalIngredients
For the Cake Base
4 oz dark chocolate (70%)
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened)
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Mousse
4 oz dark chocolate (70%), melted
1 ½ cups heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks
For the Topping
2 cups fresh raspberries
2 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions
- Step 1: Bake the Cake Base
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a springform pan.
- Melt butter and 4 oz dark chocolate together until smooth.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Fold in the chocolate mixture, flour, cocoa powder, and vanilla.
- Pour into the pan and bake 20–25 minutes, until set. Let cool completely.
- Step 2: Prepare the Mousse
- Melt the remaining 4 oz dark chocolate and let cool slightly.
- In another bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the cooled melted chocolate into the whipped cream until smooth and airy.
- Step 3: Assemble
- Spread mousse evenly over the cooled cake base.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until firm.
- Step 4: Add the Topping
- Arrange raspberries on top of the mousse.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For the best results, allow the cake base to cool completely before adding the mousse layer—otherwise, the heat will cause the mousse to melt and lose its airy texture. Always use high-quality dark chocolate, as it’s the star flavor of the dessert.
FAQs
1. Can I make Raspberry Chocolate Mousse Cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake is perfect for making in advance. You can prepare it a day before serving since it needs several hours to chill and set in the fridge.
2. Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen raspberries can be used, but fresh ones look and taste best for topping. If using frozen, thaw and pat them dry before placing on the cake to avoid excess liquid.
3. How long does Raspberry Chocolate Mousse Cake last?
It will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days when stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
4. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze it without the raspberry topping. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then add fresh raspberries before serving.
5. How do I get the mousse layer light and airy?
Be sure to gently fold the whipped cream into the melted chocolate. Overmixing will deflate the mousse, while folding carefully keeps it fluffy.
Conclusion
Raspberry Chocolate Mousse Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a culinary experience that combines elegance, indulgence, and freshness in every slice. The velvety mousse, rich cake base, and juicy raspberries make it an irresistible treat for any celebration. With simple ingredients and a few key techniques, you can create a showstopping cake that rivals any bakery creation. Whether for a holiday, a romantic dinner, or simply to spoil yourself, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy.
