Name: Tuxedo Cake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 5 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose Flour (240g); 2 cups Granulated Sugar (400g); ½ cup Cocoa Powder (50g); 1 ½ teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 ½ teaspoon Baking Soda; ½ cup Whole Milk (120g / 120ml, room temperature); 2 Large Eggs (room temperature); ½ cup Sour Cream (128g, room temperature); ½ cup Vegetable Oil (110g); 1 teaspoon Espresso Powder; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; ½ teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Hot Water (240g / 240ml); 4 Large Egg Yolks; 2 cups Heavy Cream (480g / 480ml); 2 tablespoon Granulated Sugar; 2 tablespoon Cornstarch; 1 teaspoon Vanilla; 3.5 oz Dark Chocolate (100g); 4.5 oz White Chocolate (130g); 5 oz Milk Chocolate (140g); ⅓ cup Heavy Cream (80g / 80ml)

If you’ve ever wanted a showstopper dessert that combines layers of rich chocolate cake, silky smooth dark chocolate mousse, light-as-air white chocolate mousse, and a glossy, decadent ganache, Tuxedo Cake is the answer to all your sweet dreams. This indulgent beauty delivers contrasting flavors and textures in every slice — the perfect balance of cocoa depth and creamy luxury. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just feel like creating a true masterpiece, this cake turns an afternoon in the kitchen into a deliciously memorable affair.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The brilliance of Tuxedo Cake lies in its carefully chosen ingredients. Each plays a crucial role: the cocoa intensifies the cake’s flavor, sour cream brings moisture, and both dark and white chocolates ensure velvety mousse layers that absolutely melt in your mouth.

All-purpose Flour: Provides the backbone structure so your layers hold together beautifully.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a tender crumb.
Cocoa Powder: For that deep, authentic chocolate flavor essential to Tuxedo Cake’s signature taste.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leaveners help your cake rise perfectly light and fluffy.
Whole Milk: Adds richness and lusciously tenderizes the cake crumb.
Large Eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to a moist, stable cake.
Sour Cream: Intensely moistens and adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
Vegetable Oil: Ensures your cake layers stay soft, even after chilling.
Espresso Powder: Amplifies the chocolate notes without tasting like coffee.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and rounds out all the flavors in the cake and mousse.
Salt: A pinch is all you need to make the chocolate flavors pop.
Hot Water: Blooms the cocoa powder for an even stronger chocolate cake.
Egg Yolks: Form the rich, silky custard base for both mousse layers.
Heavy Cream: Used in both the mousse and ganache to add that billowy, creamy finish.
Granulated Sugar (for mousse): Sweetens the mousse without making it cloying.
Cornstarch: Helps stabilize and thicken the mousse, keeping those layers picture-perfect.
Dark Chocolate: Provides deep, bittersweet flavor for the dark chocolate mousse.
White Chocolate: Melts into a gorgeous, creamy contrast for the white chocolate mousse.
Milk Chocolate: Makes a luscious ganache topping that’s just sweet enough.

How to Make Tuxedo Cake

Step 1: Prep the Cake Layers

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and greasing two 8-inch cake pans. This step ensures you’ll have a flawless release and sturdy base for your Tuxedo Cake layers. Sift all your dry cake ingredients together, then mix the wet ingredients separately before combining—this method helps create an effortlessly smooth, lump-free batter. Finally, dissolve espresso powder in hot water for that signature chocolate boost, pour it into your batter, and bake until a skewer comes out clean. Let the layers cool completely before assembly.

Step 2: Level and Prepare Your Cake

Using a serrated knife or a cake leveler, trim the tops of your cake layers until flat. Not only does this make for a picture-perfect finished cake, but it also helps your mousse stay put, preventing those frustrating slides. Place your first cake layer in a cake ring or on your serving plate so you’re ready for the mousse magic to come!

Step 3: Craft the Dark and White Chocolate Mousses

Finely chop your dark and white chocolate and set each in separate bowls. Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until pale, then gently temper with scalding cream infused with vanilla. Whisk the mixture back in the saucepan till it thickens, and pour half over the dark chocolate and half over the white chocolate. Stir each until silky smooth, then cool to room temp. While they cool, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks, then gently fold into the cooled custards—one with dark chocolate, one with white—for two fluffy mousse layers full of rich flavor and stunning contrast.

Step 4: Assemble Your Tuxedo Cake

Pour the dark chocolate mousse over your first cake layer, spreading evenly right to the edges. Next comes the white chocolate mousse, poured gently on top—thanks to its slightly lighter consistency, it’ll layer beautifully without mixing. Chill the cake for 30 minutes to stabilize the mousse, then add the second cake layer on top. Refrigerate the whole thing for at least four hours to achieve those gorgeous, clean-cut layers the Tuxedo Cake is known for.

Step 5: Make the Chocolate Ganache

Once your cake is fully set, prepare your ganache. Gently heat heavy cream to just below boiling, then pour it over chopped milk chocolate. Let it stand to melt, then stir until glossy and completely smooth. Cool the ganache to room temperature so it’ll coat the cake without running right off. Carefully spread the ganache over the top for a luxuriously smooth finish, and add any decorative touches—like sprinkles or chocolate shavings—for that grand, celebratory flair.

How to Serve Tuxedo Cake

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of a great finishing touch. Dress your Tuxedo Cake with delicate chocolate curls, edible gold leaf, or a scattering of festive sprinkles for special occasions. Even a handful of fresh berries adds an elegant pop of color that complements the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair a slice of Tuxedo Cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream, or a simple cup of espresso. These sides help cut the richness while allowing each decadent bite of cake to shine as the star of your dessert table.

Creative Ways to Present

For a truly striking display, serve the cake on a sleek black or white cake stand to highlight the “tuxedo” effect of the layers. You can also slice and plate in advance, fanned with a drizzle of ganache and a single chocolate-dipped strawberry for a restaurant-worthy finish that’ll wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Tuxedo Cake tasting fresh, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place slices in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days—the mousse layers stay creamy, and the cake won’t dry out.

Freezing

If you need to make Tuxedo Cake ahead, you can freeze it (either whole or in slices). Wrap well in several layers of plastic wrap then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge; the textures of cake and mousse hold up remarkably well.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. If you prefer a slightly softer texture for the ganache, let the cake sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, which can make the mousse separate.

FAQs

Can I make Tuxedo Cake without a cake ring?

Absolutely! While a cake ring ensures neat layers, you can use an adjustable springform pan or even assemble the cake directly in your pans if necessary. Line the sides with acetate or parchment for easy release.

Is it possible to make Tuxedo Cake gluten-free?

You sure can! Just substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour, and double-check that your baking powder and chocolate brands are gluten-free.

How do I know when my mousse is set enough to add the next layer?

Give the mousse a gentle jiggle—it should feel thick and hold its shape when you touch the side of the pan. If in doubt, chill a little longer between layers for the cleanest separation.

Can I use semi-sweet chocolate instead of dark or milk?

Definitely! Semi-sweet chocolate provides a lovely balance for both the mousse and ganache. Keep in mind your cake will be a touch sweeter, so adjust the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet dessert.

What’s the best way to get perfect, clean slices?

Dip a sharp chef’s knife in hot water and wipe it dry before each cut. This trick slices through the mousse and cake with ease, ensuring Instagram-worthy pieces every time!

Final Thoughts

This Tuxedo Cake really is a labor of love, but the payoff is spectacular—each forkful is a celebration of chocolate in all its velvety forms. Even if you’ve never made a multi-layered cake before, give this recipe a try; you’ll be amazed at how impressive (and delicious) your results will be. Treat yourself and those you love to a slice of pure elegance!