The aroma of freshly baked chocolate cake wafting through the kitchen is pure magic, isn’t it? This Tuxedo Bar Cake brings back fond memories of celebrations filled with laughter and sweetness. Imagine moist layers of chocolate cake, airy mousse, and creamy cheese, all draped in a shiny ganache that dazzles the eye. Not only is this indulgent dessert a showstopper at gatherings, but it’s also surprisingly simple to create—perfect for both seasoned baking enthusiasts and home-cook newcomers. With just a bit of time and love, you can elevate an ordinary day into a special occasion, satisfying those cravings for a rich chocolate dessert. Are you ready to impress with this delightful Tuxedo Bar Cake? Let’s dive into the layers of deliciousness!
Why Is Tuxedo Bar Cake a Must-Try?
Indulgence at Its Finest: This Tuxedo Bar Cake tantalizes with its layered extravagance, featuring moist chocolate cake, airy mousse, and creamy cheese, all topped with a glossy ganache. Effortlessly Impressive: Perfect for gatherings, it’s sure to wow guests with its stunning presentation. Versatility: Whether for a birthday or holiday, it fits any occasion beautifully. Explore these delightful Strawberry Shortcake Ice or Flourless Orange Cake as alternatives for your next dessert. Baker-Friendly: With straightforward steps, it invites bakers of all skill levels to join in on the fun. Unforgettable Flavor: The rich, chocolatey goodness is not just a dessert; it’s pure bliss in every bite!
Tuxedo Bar Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- Unsalted Butter – 1 cup, cubed; ensures rich moisture and flavor. Substitute with dairy-free butter for a non-dairy version.
- Water – 1 cup; essential for melting the butter and cocoa together, cannot be substituted.
- Unsweet Dark Cocoa Powder – 1/3 cup; provides a deep chocolate flavor, so avoid regular cocoa.
- All-Purpose Flour – 2 cups; gives the cake structure, can be replaced with a gluten-free flour mix.
- Light Brown Sugar – 1 1/2 cups, packed; adds caramel sweetness, granulated sugar works in a pinch.
- Espresso Powder (optional) – 2 teaspoons; enhances the chocolate flavor, can be omitted if desired.
- Baking Soda – 1 teaspoon; crucial for the cake to rise, cannot be substituted.
- Fine Grain Sea Salt – 1/2 teaspoon; balances sweetness, regular salt is fine if pressed.
- Buttermilk – 1/2 cup, at room temperature; tenderizes the cake, can substitute with milk + vinegar (1/2 cup).
- Large Eggs – 2, at room temperature; binds the ingredients, essential for a fluffy texture.
- Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon; adds depth of flavor – high-quality extract makes a difference.
For the Mousse
- Heavy Cream – 1 cup, divided; creates a light and airy texture. No specific substitute for this ingredient.
- Semisweet Chocolate Chips – 1/2 cup; the star of the mousse layer; choose high-quality for the best results.
- Cream Cheese – 4 oz; provides a tangy flavor; non-dairy cream cheese works as a substitute.
- White Chocolate – 3 oz, melted and cooled slightly; offers creaminess and sweetness, can replace with vegan white chocolate.
- Unsalted Butter (for mousse layer) – 1/3 cup; smooths the mixture; margarine can work for dairy-free.
- Lemon Juice – 1/2 tablespoon; brightens up the cream cheese flavor, optional if desired.
- Confectioners’ Sugar – 1/3 cup; sweetens the filling, regular sugar can be used if necessary.
For the Ganache
- Semisweet Chocolate Chips – 1 cup; important for rich ganache thickness. Higher quality gives a better shine.
- Heavy Cream – 1/2 cup; ensures creaminess of the ganache.
- Sunflower Oil – 1 tablespoon; helps achieve a smooth, pourable consistency; can replace with neutral oil.
For the Frosting
- Confectioners’ Sugar – 1/2 cup; sweetens the frosting; regular sugar can’t replace in quality.
- Milk – 1 tablespoon; adjusts the thickness of the frosting.
- Unsalted Butter (for frosting) – 3 tablespoons; base for creamy frosting; margarine serves as a non-dairy alternative.
- Unsweet Cocoa Powder (for frosting) – 2 tablespoons; deepens chocolate flavor in frosting.
For Decoration
- Rolled Cookie Wafer – 1; any light cookie adds visual appeal.
- Fancy Chocolate Truffles – 3; use these for an indulgent finishing touch to the cake.
Indulge in this Tuxedo Bar Cake that is sure to delight your guests!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tuxedo Bar Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, prepare your cake pans by greasing them thoroughly or lining them with parchment paper to ensure easy release after baking. This will set the stage for your Tuxedo Bar Cake, ensuring each layer emerges perfectly baked.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Cocoa
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of cubed unsalted butter, 1 cup of water, and 1/3 cup of unsweet dark cocoa powder. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring gently until everything melts and mixes smoothly together. Once combined and glossy, remove from heat to let it cool slightly before adding it to the dry ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups of light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine grain sea salt. If you’re using espresso powder, fold it in here. This dry mixture will help form the delightful base of your Tuxedo Bar Cake.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the melted butter and cocoa mixture into the dry ingredients. With a spatula, gently mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy. This batter will be rich and chocolatey, anticipating the delicious layers of your Tuxedo Bar Cake.
Step 5: Incorporate the Buttermilk and Eggs
Add in 1/2 cup of room-temperature buttermilk, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix together until you achieve a smooth and creamy batter, ensuring no lumps remain. This step helps create a tender cake that balances perfectly with the rich layers to come in your Tuxedo Bar Cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans, spreading it out smoothly. Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your cakes should rise nicely, with a glossy top indicating they are nearing perfection.
Step 7: Cool the Cake Layers
After baking, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process is crucial as it prevents melting your mousse when you assemble your Tuxedo Bar Cake.
Step 8: Whip the Heavy Cream
While the cakes cool, take 1 cup of heavy cream and whip it in a mixing bowl until stiff peaks form. This will provide the airy texture needed for the mousse layer. Once the cream reaches that perfect consistency, gently fold in 1/2 cup of semisweet chocolate chips to infuse chocolatey goodness.
Step 9: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In another bowl, blend 4 oz of cream cheese, 3 oz of melted white chocolate, 1/3 cup of confectioners’ sugar, 1/3 cup of unsalted butter, and the lemon juice until completely smooth and creamy. This mixture adds a rich and tangy layer to your Tuxedo Bar Cake, balancing out the sweetness of the mousse.
Step 10: Assemble the Cake Layers
Start layering your Tuxedo Bar Cake: place a chocolate cake layer on a serving plate, followed by a generous layer of mousse, then the cream cheese mixture. Repeat this layering process until all components are stacked beautifully. Each layer adds an element of delight and visual appeal.
Step 11: Make the Ganache
In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, and 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil together until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. This glossy ganache will be the stunning crown on your Tuxedo Bar Cake.
Step 12: Pour Ganache Over the Cake
Carefully pour the ganache over the assembled cake, allowing it to cascade over the edges for an elegant finish. Let the ganache set a bit to achieve that perfect sheen. This final touch transforms your Tuxedo Bar Cake into an indulgent masterpiece.
Step 13: Decorate and Serve
For a decorative touch, prepare chocolate buttercream with 1/2 cup of confectioners’ sugar, 3 tablespoons of butter, and a bit of milk if needed. Pipe it around the base of your cake and top with fancy chocolate truffles and a rolled cookie wafer. Slice and serve this stunning Tuxedo Bar Cake to impressed guests!
How to Store and Freeze Tuxedo Bar Cake
- Room Temperature: Keep wrapped or covered under a dome for up to 2 days. Enjoy the cake’s fresh flavors before it starts to dry out, maximizing your indulgence!
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This maintains the layers of chocolate cake while keeping the mousse and cream cheese mixture cool and delightful.
- Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and to enjoy your frozen Tuxedo Bar Cake at its finest.
- Reheating: Serve chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a cozy twist.
Tuxedo Bar Cake Variations & Substitutions
Get ready to unleash your creativity and make this incredible Tuxedo Bar Cake even more unique and delightful!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with dairy-free butter and replace buttermilk with a dairy-free alternative to cater to lactose sensitivities. This ensures everyone can enjoy a slice of this heavenly dessert.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This variation keeps the cake light and decadent while catering to those with gluten restrictions.
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Dark Chocolate: Swap semisweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate for a richer, more intense flavor profile. Dark chocolate enthusiasts will rejoice in every indulgent bite of this cake!
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Flavored Mousse: Incorporate flavored liqueurs like orange or coffee into the mousse layer for a gourmet twist. A splash of your favorite liqueur can elevate the cake’s sophistication, turning it into a true showstopper.
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Nutty Crunch: Add crushed nuts or cookies in between the layers for a delightful texture contrast. The added crunch gives each bite a unique character that your guests will love.
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Fruit Infusion: Layer fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, between the cake and mousse for a refreshing burst of flavor. This fruity addition provides a delicious balance to the richness of the chocolate.
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Mini Cupcakes: Transform this recipe into mini tuxedo cupcakes for a fun and portable version. Perfect for parties, they maintain the same indulgence in a smaller, bite-sized form.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon to the cake batter or mousse for a surprising heat that complements the chocolate beautifully. This subtle warmth adds depth to the flavor profile, making each slice even more exciting!
So, jump into your kitchen, and enjoy experimenting with these variations for your majestic Tuxedo Bar Cake—it’s always more fun when you make it your own!
Make Ahead Options
These Tuxedo Bar Cake components are perfect for meal prep! You can bake the chocolate cake layers up to 3 days in advance. Once cooled, wrap them tightly and refrigerate to maintain moisture. The mousse and cream cheese layers can be prepared up to 24 hours before assembling; simply store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, layer the chilled cake with mousse and cream cheese, then pour the ganache over the top. This ensures your Tuxedo Bar Cake retains its rich flavor and decadent texture, impressing guests without the last-minute rush!
Expert Tips for Tuxedo Bar Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Keep all dairy ingredients at room temperature to ensure better mixing and a fluffier cake texture.
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Mixing Essentials: Avoid overmixing the batter; mix until just combined to prevent a dense texture in your Tuxedo Bar Cake.
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Cooling Matters: Ensure the cake layers are completely cooled before assembly to prevent the mousse from melting.
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Ganache Technique: Stir the ganache continuously while melting to avoid burning and achieve a smooth finish.
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Beautiful Presentation: For an elegant touch, decorate with extra truffles or a dusting of cocoa powder on top before serving.
What to Serve with Tuxedo Bar Cake?
Delight your senses and elevate your dessert experience with perfect pairings that complement this indulgent layered cake.
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Fresh Strawberries: Their bright tartness balances the rich chocolate, adding a refreshing touch to your dessert plate.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy ice cream brings a luscious contrast to the moist texture of the cake, enhancing each bite.
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Whipped Cream: Fluffy and airy, it lightens the layered indulgence while adding a touch of sweetness that rounds off the flavors beautifully.
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Espresso or Coffee: The bold flavors of freshly brewed coffee enhance the chocolate richness, making each mouthful even more satisfying. Enjoying Tuxedo Bar Cake with a warm cup of coffee feels like a warm embrace.
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Chocolate-Dipped Fruit: Consider pairing it with chocolate-dipped strawberries or bananas for an extra decadent treat that echoes the cake’s exquisite layers.
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Chocolate Ganache Tart: Serve a rich ganache tart alongside for a two-part chocolate extravaganza—just the thing for chocolate lovers!
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Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy and flavorful, a piece of biscotti adds texture and makes for a delightful contrast with the cake’s softness.
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Sparkling Wine or Champagne: This bubbly drink adds a celebratory twist and enhances the festive experience when serving Tuxedo Bar Cake during special occasions.
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Mint Tea: For a refreshing palate cleanser, a warm cup of mint tea provides a soothing complement to the richness of the cake.
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Creamy Cheesecake: If you’re hosting a large gathering, consider a slice of creamy cheesecake as an additional option; it adds variety while still being indulgent.
Tuxedo Bar Cake Recipe FAQs
What types of chocolate should I use for the Tuxedo Bar Cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for high-quality semisweet chocolate chips for the mousse and ganache. You can also experiment with dark chocolate for an even richer taste. Just remember that using unsweetened cocoa powder in the cake base will yield a delightful depth of flavor, so try to stick with that.
How can I ensure my cake layers don’t dry out?
Very! To keep your Tuxedo Bar Cake moist, always let it cool completely before assembling. Once assembled, cover the cake with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container. If storing slices, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap to lock in the moisture, keeping them delicious for up to 5 days in the fridge!
Can I freeze the Tuxedo Bar Cake?
Absolutely! Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer the slices to the refrigerator to thaw overnight, preserving the texture and flavor for a fantastic treat.
What should I do if my cake layers come out too dense?
If you encounter dense layers while making your Tuxedo Bar Cake, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter. Make sure to combine ingredients only until they’re just mixed. And don’t forget to check the freshness of your baking soda, as old leavening agents won’t provide the rise you need!
Any special considerations for dietary restrictions?
Very! For those with dairy allergies, you can easily substitute the butter, cream, and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives. Just choose a non-dairy butter and cream cheese for the filling, and you’ll still achieve the desired creaminess and flavor in your Tuxedo Bar Cake.
Decadent Tuxedo Bar Cake That Will Impress Any Guest
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans by greasing or lining them with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, water, and dark cocoa powder. Heat over medium heat until melted and glossy, then cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, baking soda, and sea salt. Fold in espresso powder if using.
- Pour the melted butter and cocoa mixture into the dry ingredients and mix gently until combined.
- Add buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the batter, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- Divide the batter between prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Whip 1 cup of heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then fold in semisweet chocolate chips.
- Blend cream cheese, white chocolate, confectioners’ sugar, unsalted butter, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Layer the cake with chocolate cake, mousse, and cream cheese mixture repeatedly until assembled.
- For ganache, heat semisweet chocolate chips, heavy cream, and sunflower oil until melted and smooth.
- Pour ganache over the assembled cake and allow it to set.
- For decoration, prepare frosting and pipe around the base of the cake; top with truffles and cookie wafer.
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