Vanilla Cake with Chocolate Mouse

Ever tried chocolate mousse as a cake filling? It tastes amazing and looks incredible. This is an easy cake to make for your loved ones any day of the week. With a topping of fresh mint and fresh fruit it is transformed into a show stopper! This cake will not disappoint.. give it a go.. I promise you it will worth it!!

Ingredients

Vanilla Sponge Cake

8 oz Self Raising Flour
8 oz Butter
8 oz Sugar
4 Eggs
2 tsp Vanilla Extract
1 tsp Almond Extract

Chocolate Mousse 

170g Dark Chocolate (70%)
7 egg whites
Squeeze of lemon juice
40g Caster Sugar

Recipe

First prepare the chocolate mousse, here is how it is done:

1. Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water (do not allow the base of the bowl to touch the water).

2. Whisk the egg whites and lemon juice in a large, clean bowl until they form soft peaks. The lemon juice will stabilise the egg whites, make them easier to work with and help to prevent over-whisking.

3. Add the sugar and continue to whisk until firm peaks form when the whisk is removed. Do not whisk beyond this stage - the egg whites will start to collapse and separate into dry froth and runny liquid, and you'll lose all the air that you've whisked in.

4. When the chocolate has melted, remove the bowl from the heat. Whisk one-third of the egg whites into the hot chocolate quickly and vigorously, until thick and well combined - if you add the egg whites in too slowly, their cold temperature can make the hot chocolate seize, solidify and result in a lumpy mousse.

5. Fold the remaining egg whites into the chocolate mixture, using a spatula, until all of the egg white has been completely incorporated into the chocolate. Don't over mix at this stage as you'll knock out the air bubbles and the mousse will be dense.

6. Place into a large bowl and allow to chill in the fridge whilst you prepare the vanilla sponge.

Vanilla Sponge Recipe

1. Preheat the oven to 180C.

2. Melt the butter in the microwave. Combine with the sugar in a large mixing bowl. 

3. Add the eggs one at a time and mixing until each one is combined before adding another. 

4. Once all the eggs are incorporated add the vanilla and almond extract.

5. Then sift in the flour and fold until just combined to a smooth mixture. 

6. Divide between two circle baking tins lined with baking parchment. 

7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a knife is inserted in the middle and removed clean. 

8. Once cooked allow to cool completely before to decorate.

Decoration 

1. Place one cake onto the serving dish and spread the chocolate mousse on the top.

2. Add the second layer and spread a thick layer of chocolate mousse on the top.

3. Decorate with raspberries, strawberries and fresh mint. 

4. Now take a big slice for yourself and enjoy the masterpiece you have created :)



Bon Appétit