Indulge in the perfect blend of textures and flavors with this Chocolate Mousse Cake featuring a deliciously crunchy Oreo base and a smooth, airy chocolate mousse topping. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something rich and chocolatey, this cake is sure to impress. Follow this detailed guide to create a stunning, mouthwatering dessert that melts in your mouth with every bite!
Ingredients
For the Oreo Base:
- 2 cups (about 200g) Oreo cookies, crushed (filling included)
- 5 tbsp (70g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Chocolate Mousse:
- 200g (7oz) dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream, chilled
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar
- Chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or crushed Oreos for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Oreo Base
A good foundation is key to any great dessert! The Oreo base provides a rich, chocolatey crunch that perfectly complements the airy mousse.
- Crush the Oreos: Place the Oreo cookies into a food processor and blend until they become fine crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, place the cookies in a ziplock bag and crush them using a rolling pin.
- Mix with Butter: Transfer the crushed Oreos to a bowl and mix them with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. This ensures the base holds together well.
- Form the Crust: Press the Oreo mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan, making an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to smooth it out.
- Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up while you prepare the mousse.
2. Make the Chocolate Mousse
The star of the cake is the rich yet airy chocolate mousse. Achieving the perfect balance of lightness and intense chocolate flavor is key.
Melt the Dark Chocolate:
- Double Boiler Method: Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir gently until the chocolate melts completely and is smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Microwave Method: Alternatively, microwave the chopped chocolate in 20-second intervals, stirring each time until fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as chocolate can burn easily.
Whip the Cream:
- Chill the Bowl: For best results, chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10 minutes before starting.
- Beat the Cream: In the chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. This means the cream should hold its shape when the beaters are lifted.
Combine the Chocolate and Cream:
- Temper the Chocolate: To prevent the chocolate from hardening when mixed, start by folding a small portion of whipped cream into the melted chocolate to lighten it.
- Fold Gently: Gradually fold the remaining whipped cream into the chocolate mixture using a spatula. Be gentle to maintain the airy texture.
3. Assemble the Cake
Now that both layers are ready, it’s time to put everything together.
- Spread the Mousse: Pour the prepared chocolate mousse over the chilled Oreo base, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours or preferably overnight. This allows the mousse to firm up and develop its luxurious texture.
4. Add the Topping
A light, fluffy whipped cream topping adds the perfect finishing touch to this indulgent dessert.
- Whip the Cream: Beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form.
- Decorate: Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the set chocolate mousse.
- Garnish: Add chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa powder, or additional crushed Oreos for extra elegance and flavor.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the Pan: Carefully release the springform pan ring, running a knife around the edges if needed.
- Slice and Serve: Use a warm knife (dip in hot water and wipe dry) to cut clean slices.
- Store: Keep any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips for the Best Chocolate Mousse Cake
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
- Chill your utensils before whipping the cream to achieve the perfect consistency.
- Be gentle when folding the mousse to keep it light and airy.
- Make it ahead of time so it has enough time to set properly.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Mousse Cake with Oreo Base is an absolute dream for chocolate lovers. It combines a crisp, buttery Oreo crust with a velvety smooth chocolate mousse, topped with a light and creamy finishing touch. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, holiday, or just because, this cake will be a showstopper at any gathering. Try this recipe and treat yourself to a slice of pure chocolate bliss! 🍰
