This Raspberry Chocolate Mousse Cake is a decadent dessert that combines rich, velvety chocolate mousse with a tart raspberry layer, all nestled on a moist chocolate cake base. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent treats, this cake offers a harmonious balance of sweetness and tanginess.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of chocolate and raspberries creates a delightful contrast of flavors.
- Smooth, airy mousse complements the dense cake layer for a perfect texture.
- It’s a visually stunning dessert, making it ideal for celebrations.
- Can be made ahead of time, making it convenient for entertaining.
- Simple ingredients come together to create an elegant dessert.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Chocolate Cake Base:
- All-purpose flour
- Cocoa powder
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Sugar
- Eggs
- Milk
- Vegetable oil
- Vanilla extract
- Hot water
For the Raspberry Layer:
- Fresh or frozen raspberries
- Sugar
- Lemon juice
- Cornstarch
For the Chocolate Mousse:
- Dark chocolate
- Heavy cream
- Powdered sugar
- Gelatin
- Water
- Vanilla extract
For Garnishing (Optional):
- Fresh raspberries
- Chocolate shavings
- Whipped cream
Directions
-
Prepare the Chocolate Cake Base:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and sugar.
- Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- Stir in the hot water gradually until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 25–30 minutes.
- Let the cake cool completely.
-
Prepare the Raspberry Layer:
- In a saucepan, combine raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat until the raspberries break down.
- Dissolve cornstarch in a little water, then stir it into the raspberry mixture.
- Continue cooking until thickened, then remove from heat and let it cool.
-
Prepare the Chocolate Mousse:
- Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler or in the microwave. Let it cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, dissolve gelatin in water and let it sit for a few minutes before gently heating to dissolve.
- Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Slowly fold the melted chocolate and gelatin mixture into the whipped cream.
-
Assemble the Cake:
- Spread the raspberry layer evenly over the cooled chocolate cake base.
- Gently pour or spread the chocolate mousse over the raspberry layer.
- Smooth the top with a spatula.
-
Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight, to set.
- Garnish with fresh raspberries, chocolate shavings, or whipped cream before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8–10 slices
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4–6 hours
Variations
- White Chocolate Version: Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate in the mousse for a lighter flavor.
- Nutty Addition: Add a layer of chopped toasted hazelnuts or almonds for extra crunch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the cake base.
- Extra Fruity Flavor: Mix in a layer of raspberry jam for an intensified berry taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the cake tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: This cake is best served chilled, so reheating is not necessary.
FAQs
How can I ensure my mousse is light and airy?
Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form and gently fold in the chocolate mixture to avoid deflating the mousse.
Can I use frozen raspberries?
Yes, frozen raspberries work well. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using.
Do I have to use gelatin in the mousse?
Gelatin helps stabilize the mousse, but you can use agar-agar as a vegetarian alternative.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead, allowing the mousse to fully set.
What’s the best way to slice the cake neatly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wipe it clean between slices.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but it will result in a sweeter mousse. Adjust the sugar level accordingly.
What can I use instead of cornstarch in the raspberry layer?
You can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as alternatives.
How do I prevent my mousse from becoming too firm?
Use the right ratio of gelatin to liquid and avoid over-whipping the cream.
Can I make this cake without a cake base?
Yes, you can serve the mousse and raspberry layers in dessert cups for a no-bake version.
Can I add liqueur for extra flavor?
Yes, a splash of raspberry liqueur or coffee liqueur can enhance the flavors.
Conclusion
Raspberry Chocolate Mousse Cake is a stunning and indulgent dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolate and tart raspberries. Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, this cake is sure to impress with its elegant layers and velvety texture. Prepare it ahead of time for a hassle-free yet sophisticated dessert option.

- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: French
Description
This Raspberry Chocolate Mousse Cake is a luxurious no-bake dessert featuring a rich, silky chocolate mousse layered with a tart raspberry filling, all set on a crunchy chocolate cookie crust. A stunning and elegant dessert for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the raspberry layer:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh raspberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 1/2 tsp unflavored gelatin
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions
-
Prepare the crust:
- Mix cookie crumbs with melted butter and press into a springform pan.
- Chill in the fridge.
-
Make the raspberry layer:
- Blend raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Dissolve gelatin in warm water, then mix into the raspberry puree.
- Spread over the crust and chill for 30 minutes.
-
Prepare the chocolate mousse:
- Melt dark chocolate and let cool slightly.
- Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Dissolve gelatin in warm water, then fold into the melted chocolate.
- Gently fold chocolate mixture into the whipped cream.
Notes
- Decorate with fresh raspberries and chocolate curls.
- Serve chilled for the best texture.
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