The moment I lifted the lid on my mixing bowl, a delightful aroma of rich chocolate filled the air—an instant mood lifter. Today, I’m excited to share my Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake, a captivating dessert that unites layers of velvety chocolate cake, light chocolate mousse, and creamy cheese, all draped in a glossy ganache. What I love most about this cake is how impressively simple it is to make, allowing even the busy home chef to indulge in a bit of gourmet magic without the fuss. Plus, with versatile options for dietary preferences—like dairy-free and gluten-free variations—everyone can join in on the fun. Are you ready to create a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
What Makes This Cake a Must-Try?
Indulgent Layers: The Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake elevates dessert time with its perfect blend of rich chocolate cake and airy mousse.
Versatile Options: Whether you’re serving a crowd or simply treating yourself, this recipe adapts beautifully to dietary needs like dairy-free or gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
Quick Assembly: Despite its impressive look, the assembling process is simple and stress-free, making it ideal for busy schedules.
Endless Variations: Get creative with exciting tweaks—try adding fresh berries between layers or a hint of spice for a unique twist.
Crowd Pleaser: This cake garners rave reviews at parties, ensuring no slice goes uneaten! Enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a slice of Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon for a delightful dessert spread.
Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- Unsalted Butter – Adds rich moisture and flavor; substitute with dairy-free butter for lactose-free options.
- Water – Essential for melting the butter and cocoa together; no substitutions needed.
- Unsweet Dark Cocoa Powder – Provides deep chocolate flavor; no substitutions needed.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cake structure; swap with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Light Brown Sugar – Adds caramel sweetness; no substitutions needed.
- Espresso Powder – Enhances chocolate flavor (optional); no substitutions needed.
- Baking Soda – Critical for rising; no substitutions needed.
- Fine Grain Sea Salt – Balances sweetness; no substitutions needed.
- Buttermilk – Tenderizes the cake; substitute with non-dairy buttermilk for dairy-free options.
- Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and contributes to structure; no substitutions needed.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; no substitutions needed.
For the Mousse
- Heavy Cream – Creates a light, airy texture; substitute coconut cream for a dairy-free mousse.
- Semisweet Chocolate Chips – Key ingredient for the mousse, providing depth; replace with dark chocolate for a richer taste.
- Cream Cheese – Adds tanginess and richness; swap with dairy-free cream cheese for lactose intolerance.
- White Chocolate – Adds sweetness and creaminess; use dairy-free white chocolate as a substitute.
- Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese filling; no substitutions needed.
For the Ganache & Decoration
- Sunflower Oil – Aids in achieving a smooth ganache consistency; no substitutions needed.
- Rolled Cookie Wafer – Provides decorative appeal; no substitutions needed.
- Fancy Chocolate Truffles – Offers an indulgent finishing touch; no substitutions needed.
Indulging in this Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake not only delights the taste buds but also creates a beautiful centerpiece for any celebration!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them with butter or lining with parchment paper. This ensures easy release once your decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake is baked. Set the pans aside while you gather your ingredients.
Step 2: Melt Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of water, and ¾ cup of unsweet dark cocoa powder. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously until everything melts together smoothly and reaches a glossy texture. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of fine grain sea salt. Optional: add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder for an enhanced chocolate flavor. This step sets the foundation for your moist cake layers, making sure everything is blended well.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the slightly cooled melted cocoa mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix the batter with a spatula until just combined, ensuring not to overwork it to keep your cake light and fluffy.
Step 5: Add Remaining Wet Ingredients
Next, mix in 1 cup of buttermilk, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the batter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated, ensuring all flavors meld together perfectly for your Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake.
Step 6: Bake
Divide your batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the baking time to achieve the perfect moistness!
Step 7: Cool
Once baked, remove the cake layers from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Ensuring they are cool prevents melting the mousse during assembly.
Step 8: Prepare Mousse
In a mixing bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed. This light and airy mousse will be the stars of your Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake, adding a touch of elegance to every slice.
Step 9: Make Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, blend 8 ounces of cream cheese, 4 ounces of melted white chocolate, ½ cup of confectioners’ sugar, and 2 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter until smooth. This creamy layer will balance the richness of your mousse and cake, creating a delightful contrast.
Step 10: Assemble Layers
On your serving plate, begin layering your cooled chocolate cakes. Start with one layer, spreading a generous portion of mousse over it, followed by a layer of the cream cheese mixture. Repeat the process with the second cake layer on top, ensuring your Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake takes shape beautifully.
Step 11: Make Ganache
In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of chocolate chips, ½ cup of heavy cream, and 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil. Stir continuously until the mixture is melted and smooth—this glossy ganache will be the finishing touch that enhances the cake’s luxurious look.
Step 12: Finish Cake
Pour the warm ganache over the assembled cake, allowing it to drizzle down the sides for an elegant appearance. Let it set for about 15–20 minutes at room temperature for the best texture and shine before moving on to the final decoration.
Step 13: Decorate
To complete your masterpiece, pipe frosting around the base of the cake. Garnish with fancy chocolate truffles and rolled cookie wafers on top for that show-stopping finish. Your Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake is now ready to impress!
Make Ahead Options
The Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake is a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap after cooling to maintain their moistness. The mousse can also be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, ensuring it stays light and airy. For the cream cheese mixture, blend it a day ahead, refrigerating until you’re ready to layer. When you’re set to serve, just assemble the cake with the mousse and cream cheese layers, pour the ganache over, and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes for that perfect finish. This way, you’ll enjoy a stunning dessert without last-minute stress!
How to Store and Freeze Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake
Room Temperature: Store leftover cake slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you’ll keep the cake longer, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. The cream cheese layer benefits from being kept cool.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: For a warm, gooey dessert experience, reheat a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy your Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake just the way you like!
Expert Tips for Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and a uniform texture in your cake.
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No Overmixing: Gently mix the batter until just combined to avoid a dense cake. Remember, overmixing can lead to a less tender crumb.
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Cooled Layers: Allow your cake layers to cool completely before assembly. This prevents the mousse from melting and ensures clean, beautiful layers in your Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake.
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Stir the Ganache: While making the ganache, stir continuously to avoid burning. This step is crucial for achieving that smooth, glossy finish.
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Creative Additions: Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavor! Consider adding a hint of espresso powder or incorporating fresh berries for an exciting twist in your cake layers.
Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this cake your own with delightful twists and substitutions!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute all dairy ingredients with non-dairy alternatives like coconut cream and dairy-free butter for a lactose-free treat.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make this delicious cake accessible to everyone.
- Dark Chocolate: Swap semisweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor in the mousse.
- Flavored Mousse: Add your favorite liqueur, like hazelnut or orange, to the mousse for a gourmet twist that elevates each bite.
- Fruit Infusion: Layer fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, in between the cake layers for a refreshing juiciness that brightens the flavor.
- Mini Cupcakes: Transform this decadent cake into mini cupcakes for a portable treat that’s perfect for parties or picnics.
- Nutty Crunch: Stir in some crushed nuts, like walnuts or hazelnuts, into the cake batter for a delightful texture contrast.
- Spicy Kick: A pinch of cayenne or ground cinnamon can be added to the cake batter to introduce a warm, intriguing note to your creation.
These variations allow for endless possibilities, just like my other favorite indulgences, such as Moist Chantilly Cake or Ube Mochi Cake. Embrace your creativity and enjoy experimenting with flavors!
What to Serve with Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake
Treat your taste buds to a delightful dessert experience by creating a sumptuous spread alongside this irresistible cake.
- Fresh Strawberries: Bright and juicy, strawberries provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cake. Their natural sweetness enhances the overall dessert experience.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream complements the textures of the cake while adding a soft creaminess that balances the richness of chocolate.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, creamy vanilla ice cream offers a cool, comforting contrast to the warm, chocolatey notes of the Tuxedo Bar Cake. Perfect for a cozy evening treat!
- Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For an indulgent twist, drizzle warm chocolate sauce over individual slices. This adds an extra layer of chocolatey goodness that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Espresso Coffee: A cup of espresso or rich coffee pairs beautifully, enhancing the chocolate flavors and providing a delightful warm beverage to sip while enjoying dessert.
- Chocolate-Covered Berries: These elegant bites are not only visually appealing but also provide a fun, fruity twist that goes perfectly with the cake’s decadent layers.
- Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies: These cookies add a refreshing, minty crunch that refreshes the palate after each bite of the rich cake.
- Pecan Pie Bars: For a nod to traditional flavors, the buttery pecan pie bars offer a delightful contrast to the chocolate, creating a diverse dessert spread for your guests.
Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of cocoa powder should I use for the best flavor?
I recommend using unsweet dark cocoa powder for the richest taste in your Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake. This type has a deep chocolate flavor that truly enhances the cake. If you can’t find it, you may use Dutch-processed cocoa powder as an alternative, but it’s best to avoid using regular sweetened cocoa for this recipe.
How should I store leftover cake, and how long will it last?
Leftover slices of your Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days. The cream cheese layer benefits from being stored in the fridge, maintaining its delicious tanginess.
Can I freeze my Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake?
Absolutely! For longer storage, I recommend wrapping individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This method will keep your cake fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. If you prefer a warm treat, you can pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
What are some common troubleshooting tips for this cake?
If your cake is turning out dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter. Remember to mix until just combined for a lighter texture. Also, ensure that your oven temperature is accurate; using an oven thermometer can help. If you notice the mousse melting during assembly, check that your cake layers are completely cool before layering.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! For those with lactose intolerance, you can easily modify the Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake to be dairy-free by substituting dairy ingredients with non-dairy alternatives, such as using coconut cream for the mousse and dairy-free cream cheese. Just be sure to confirm the ingredients for any allergies or dietary restrictions you may have.
Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them or lining with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of water, and ¾ cup of unsweet dark cocoa powder. Heat over medium until melted.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of sea salt.
- Pour the cooled cocoa mixture into the dry ingredients and mix gently with a spatula.
- Add in 1 cup of buttermilk, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
- Divide batter into pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Whip 1 cup of heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then fold in 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips.
- Blend 8 ounces of cream cheese, 4 ounces of melted white chocolate, and ½ cup of confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
- On a serving plate, layer the cake, spreading mousse and cream cheese mixture alternately until finished.
- In a saucepan, heat 1 cup of chocolate chips, ½ cup of heavy cream, and 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil, stirring until smooth.
- Pour ganache over the cake and let it set for 15-20 minutes.
- Pipe frosting around the base and garnish with chocolate truffles and rolled cookie wafers.
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