Black Tie Mousse Cake Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines elegance with decadence, the Black Tie Mousse Cake is the perfect choice. This cake is a showstopper with its rich layers of chocolate mousse, creamy cheesecake, and a silky ganache topping. It’s an indulgent treat that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweetest cravings. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of making this luxurious dessert, offering tips and tricks to ensure that your Black Tie Mousse Cake turns out perfectly every time.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Chocolate Mousse:

• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 3 large eggs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup heavy cream

For the Ganache Topping:

• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to press it down.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until it’s set and slightly golden. Allow it to cool completely while you prepare the next layers.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Mousse

1. Melt the semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until pale and frothy. Stir in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract.
4. Gently fold the chocolate mixture into the whipped cream, being careful not to deflate the mousse.
5. Spread the mousse evenly over the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the mousse is set.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until fully combined.
5. Pour the cheesecake batter over the set chocolate mousse layer. Smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles.
7. Turn off the oven and crack the oven door slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Step 4: Make the Ganache Topping

1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer.
2. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
3. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring it over the chilled cheesecake layer. Smooth it out with a spatula.
4. Refrigerate the cake for another 30 minutes to allow the ganache to set.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Carefully remove the cake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with chocolate shavings or fresh berries if desired.
3. Slice and serve the Black Tie Mousse Cake chilled. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smooth and creamy texture, ensure that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing.
• Avoid Overmixing: When combining ingredients, especially for the mousse and cheesecake layers, mix until just combined to avoid incorporating excess air.
• Chill Thoroughly: Allow each layer to set properly before adding the next. This ensures clean layers and a beautifully presented cake.

Conclusion

The Black Tie Mousse Cake is the epitome of indulgence, combining rich chocolate mousse, creamy cheesecake, and luscious ganache into one spectacular dessert. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this cake is sure to impress. Follow these steps for a show-stopping dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.