Triple Chocolate Brownie Mousse Cake – The Ultimate Chocolate Fix
If you’re looking for a decadent dessert that will satisfy even the most intense chocolate cravings, look no further than this Triple Chocolate Brownie Mousse Cake. This cake layers a dense, fudgy brownie with a rich chocolate mousse and finishes with a silky ganache and dark chocolate shavings. It’s an indulgent dessert, perfect for special occasions or whenever you need a show-stopping treat. The contrasting textures—chewy brownie, airy mousse, and smooth ganache—make this cake irresistible. If you love chocolate, this dessert will quickly become one of your favorites.
Did You Know?
Brownies, originating as an American dessert in the early 1900s, have become a beloved treat worldwide. This recipe elevates the classic brownie by layering it with smooth chocolate mousse, creating a dessert that’s both elegant and indulgent. The combination of textures—from the dense, fudgy brownie to the light, airy mousse—makes this cake an irresistible choice for any chocolate lover. The addition of chocolate ganache and a topping of dark chocolate shavings adds a final touch of richness. Plus, using 70% dark chocolate provides health benefits such as antioxidants, which can support heart health and improve brain function.
Yield:
12 servings
Ingredients
For the Brownie Base:
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% dark chocolate)
For the Chocolate Mousse:
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (70% dark chocolate)
1 tablespoon butter
For the Chocolate Shavings:
1 bar (about 3.5 oz) 70% dark chocolate
Instructions
Make the Brownie Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Melt the butter in a large bowl, then whisk in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, folding gently until just combined.
Stir in the dark chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownie cool completely in the pan.
Personal Tip: To get that fudgy texture, avoid overbaking. Check the brownie at the 25-minute mark to ensure it stays moist.
Prepare the Chocolate Mousse: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract, and continue whipping until stiff peaks form. Spread the mousse evenly over the cooled brownie base in the springform pan. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
Personal Tip: For a lighter mousse, make sure your cream is very cold before whipping.
Prepare the Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the dark chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Stir in the butter until glossy. Let the ganache cool slightly, then pour it over the set chocolate mousse layer, spreading it evenly across the top.
Personal Tip: If your ganache starts to harden too quickly, gently warm it again over a double boiler.
Make the Chocolate Shavings: To make chocolate shavings, use a bar of 70% dark chocolate at room temperature. Hold the chocolate with one hand and use a vegetable peeler or sharp knife to scrape along the edge of the chocolate, creating thin shavings. Scatter the shavings evenly over the ganache while it's still slightly soft, so they stick to the top.
Personal Tip: Store your chocolate shavings in a cool, dry place if preparing them ahead of time to avoid melting.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow all the layers to set. Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan before slicing. Serve chilled.
Personal Tip: For the cleanest slices, run your knife under hot water and wipe it clean between cuts.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 560, Protein: 7g, Carbohydrates: 62g, Sugars: 40g, Total Fat: 34g, Saturated Fat: 21g, Fiber: 5g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Choosing the Right Pan: A springform pan is ideal for this recipe because it allows easy removal of the cake without disturbing the layers. If you don’t have one, use a deep dish and carefully slice the cake in the dish.
- Make-Ahead Tips: The brownie base and chocolate mousse can be made a day ahead, making assembly easier. Just store the mousse-covered brownie in the fridge until you’re ready to add the ganache and chocolate shavings.
- Layering Techniques: For the smoothest layers, use an offset spatula to spread the mousse and ganache evenly. This helps create a professional-looking finish and ensures even distribution.
- Chocolate Shavings: For best results, use a high-quality 70% dark chocolate bar at room temperature to create the shavings. The slightly bitter flavor of the shavings balances the sweetness of the mousse and ganache.
- Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate: Using 70% dark chocolate not only enhances the rich flavor but also provides health benefits. Dark chocolate is full of antioxidants that can reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and even boost brain function.
- Serving Suggestions: Because this cake is rich and decadent, serve smaller slices. You can pair it with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Storing Leftovers: Cover and refrigerate any leftover cake. It will keep well for up to 3 days, though the mousse may soften slightly over time.
- Freezing Tips: The brownie base can be baked and frozen ahead of time. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw before adding the mousse, ganache, and chocolate shavings.
- Cost-Saving Tips: Buying chocolate in bulk can save you money, especially if you make this cake for a large gathering. Grating your own chocolate for the ganache is often more economical than using pre-chopped chips.
- Decorative Options: While the chocolate shavings add a beautiful finish, you can also dust the cake with cocoa powder or even add edible gold leaf for an extra touch of elegance at a special event.
Let’s Learn About Chocolate
Chocolate is classified based on the percentage of cocoa solids it contains. Dark chocolate generally contains 50% to 90% cocoa solids, while milk chocolate usually contains 10% to 50%. The higher the percentage of cocoa solids, the richer the chocolate flavor and the lower the sugar content. For example, 70% dark chocolate strikes a balance between sweetness and bitterness, making it ideal for this mousse cake. In addition to its rich flavor, dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage, improve brain function, and support heart health. When choosing chocolate, it's best to opt for high-quality varieties with minimal added sugar or artificial ingredients for both flavor and health benefits.