Description
A rich and decadent gluten-free chocolate mousse cake topped with fluffy mousse, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups unsweetened cocoa powder (plus more for dusting)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other non-dairy milk)
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil (or other neutral oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 0.5 cup hot water (or hot brewed coffee)
- 1 pound bittersweet chocolate (finely chopped)
- 1.5 cups heavy cream (or full-fat coconut cream for dairy-free)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for extra sweetness in mousse)
- Fresh berries for garnish
- Chocolate shavings for garnish
- Dusting of cocoa powder for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan with gluten-free flour or cocoa powder, or line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Combine the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
- Mix the almond milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract in a separate medium bowl. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Add the hot water or brewed coffee gradually, mixing until incorporated. The batter will be thin.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Cool the cake in the pan for 15-20 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Melt the bittersweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler or in the microwave.
- Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, adding powdered sugar if desired.
- Fold in the melted chocolate with a third of the whipped cream, then gently mix in the rest.
- Assemble the cake by pouring the mousse over the cooled cake.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Serve garnished with cocoa powder, fresh berries, or chocolate shavings.
Notes
Use quality chocolate for the best flavor. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing.