When it comes to indulgent desserts, few can match the appeal of a luscious chocolate cake layered with creamy mousse and rich cheesecake. I remember the first time I savored the Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cake—it was as if every bite transported me to a world of deep chocolate dreams and velvety textures. This decadent treat has become a staple for chocolate lovers, and now, I’m thrilled to share with you my copycat version that you can whip up in your own kitchen.
Imagine serving this impressive, four-layer masterpiece at your next dinner party or special occasion. With its harmonious blend of dark chocolate cheesecake and airy vanilla mousse, it’s sure to steal the show and satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Plus, you won’t need to rely on restaurant runs anymore. Instead, bring the magic of this beloved dessert home, where your friends and family can indulge in its rich flavors, all made with love right from your oven. Get ready to embark on a deliciously rewarding baking adventure!
Why is Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cake a Must-Try?
Decadent Layers: This recipe features a stunning four-layer design that balances rich chocolate cheesecake with light, fluffy mousse, creating an unforgettable experience with each slice.
Simple Method: Even novice bakers can achieve perfection with straightforward steps, making it accessible yet show-stopping.
Visually Impressive: With its layered presentation, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have your guests raving!
Versatile Indulgence: Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to dinner parties, and can be made ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.
Flavor Harmony: The combination of dark chocolate and creamy vanilla gives each bite a symphony of flavors that will captivate chocolate lovers.
Make it Yours: Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors or toppings; incorporate a layer of caramel or serve with fresh berries for added freshness!
Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure for the cake; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Granulated sugar – Adds essential sweetness; stick with sugar for best results, as there are no satisfactory substitutes.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – Delivers deep chocolate flavor; consider using Dutch-process cocoa for a different taste.
• Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise; make sure it’s fresh for effectiveness.
• Kosher salt – Enhances the overall flavor; feel free to use sea salt as an alternative.
• Brewed coffee – Intensifies the chocolate flavor; instant coffee or espresso can serve as substitutes.
• Extra-virgin olive oil – Keeps the cake moist; can be replaced with vegetable oil if needed.
• Apple cider vinegar – Reacts with baking soda for lift; white vinegar is a suitable substitute.
• Pure vanilla extract – Imparts a delightful depth of flavor; imitation vanilla can be used, though the taste will differ.
For the Cheesecake Layer
• Dark chocolate (70% cacao) – The main ingredient in the cheesecake; opt for high-quality chocolate for the best results.
• Cream cheese (softened) – Contributes creaminess to the cheesecake layers; Neufchâtel cheese is a lower-fat alternative.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture; salted butter can also be used, just omit any additional salt.
For the Mousse
• Heavy cream – Necessary for whipping into mousse; light cream won’t achieve the desired texture.
• Confectioners’ sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream without any gritty texture; regular sugar can be used but requires thorough mixing.
• Pure vanilla extract – Enhances the mousse flavor; consider using the pure variety for a richer taste.
For Decoration
• White chocolate chips – Adds sweetness and visual appeal; dark chocolate chips make a great substitute if desired.
• Semisweet mini chocolate chips – Perfect for garnish and giving texture; while optional, they add a lovely finishing touch.
This Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cake is not only a feast for the eyes but a sumptuous delight for your taste buds!
How to Make Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cake
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Bake Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans, then combine the dry ingredients in a bowl. Mix in wet ingredients, pour into pans, and bake until a toothpick comes out clean, about 25-30 minutes. Cool completely.
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Make Cheesecake Layer: Melt the dark chocolate gently in a double boiler. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with the melted chocolate and blend in the heavy cream until smooth and well combined.
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Prepare Mousse: In a clean bowl, whip the heavy cream with confectioners’ sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold this whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture, ensuring a light and airy texture.
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Assemble Layers: Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of the cheesecake mixture over it, then add a layer of mousse. Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, cheesecake, and mousse, finishing with mousse on top.
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Chill: Cover the assembled cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This will allow the layers to set beautifully, making slicing easier.
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Decorate: Before serving, top with white chocolate chips and semisweet mini chocolate chips for a beautiful finish. Slice and enjoy!
Optional: Serve with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best emulsion and texture, which enhances the overall consistency of your cake.
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Cool Completely: Always let your chocolate cake layers cool thoroughly before assembling. This prevents melting the mousse or cheesecake layers and ensures clean slices.
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Avoid Overwhipping: When whipping the cream for the mousse, stop at stiff peaks. Overwhipping can lead to a grainy texture that detracts from the luscious experience of the Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cake.
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Chilling is Key: Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps the layers set properly for a neater slice and improves flavors.
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Decoration Matters: For that restaurant-quality finish, generously garnish with white chocolate chips and semisweet mini chocolate chips just before serving—presentation makes a big difference!
Make Ahead Options
These Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bake the chocolate cake up to 24 hours in advance and store it tightly wrapped at room temperature. Additionally, you can prepare the cheesecake filling and mousse one day ahead, keeping them refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the chilled cheesecake and mousse over the cake, refrigerate the completed dessert for at least 4 hours, or overnight, for the best flavor and texture. This way, you’ll enjoy a show-stopping dessert with minimal effort, leaving you more time to savor the moments with your loved ones!
Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cake Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this beloved dessert with these delightful options!
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Caramel Layer: Add a smooth caramel layer between the cheesecake and mousse for an extra sweet bite. The harmony of flavors will leave your guests begging for more!
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Flavored Chocolate: Experiment with different flavored chocolates like raspberry or orange for a unique twist. Infusing flavors can elevate this dessert to new heights.
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Vanilla Mousse: Swap the chocolate mousse for vanilla for a lighter version that still packs a creamy punch. This is perfect for those who enjoy classic flavors.
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Berries & Cream: Layer fresh berries between the chocolate layers for added freshness and a burst of tangy flavor, enhancing each bite with a delightful contrast.
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Nutty Crunch: Add crushed nuts like hazelnuts or almonds between layers for texture and richness. The crunch will beautifully juxtapose the creaminess of the cake.
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Spicy Chocolate: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or espresso powder with your chocolate for a surprising warm kick that complements the sweetness of the mousse.
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Gluten-Free Substitute: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, allowing everyone to enjoy a slice!
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Mocha Bliss: Incorporate instant coffee granules into the cake batter for a boosted coffee flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolatey goodness. It’s the ultimate pick-me-up dessert!
How to Store and Freeze Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cake
Fridge: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its rich flavors and textures.
Freezer: You can freeze individual slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, storing for up to 2 months for best quality.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen slices, thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving so they retain their creamy consistency.
Make-Ahead Tip: This Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cake can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it the perfect dessert for stress-free entertaining.
What to Serve with Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cake?
Bring your dessert experience to the next level with thoughtful accompaniments that enhance the rich, chocolatey goodness of this show-stopping cake.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries cuts through the richness, adding a refreshing contrast to the cake.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that complements the cake’s layers beautifully.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each slice intensifies the indulgent experience for serious chocolate lovers.
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Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso pairs perfectly, bringing out the deep flavors in the cake while keeping the dessert cozy.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and a cooling element that balances the dense mousse cake nicely.
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Mint Sprigs: For a splash of color and a hint of freshness, garnish each slice with mint leaves, offering a delightful aroma with each bite.
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Espresso Martini: For an adult twist, serve this chocolate delight with an espresso martini for a sophisticated dessert pairing.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce provides an extra layer of sweetness and richness that takes the cake experience to new heights.
Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of cocoa powder should I use for the cake?
I recommend using unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor. If you want a more distinct taste, Dutch-process cocoa is a fantastic alternative. Just make sure it’s fresh!
How long can I store leftover Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cake?
You can keep the leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It stays moist and delicious, so you can savor those rich flavors a little longer!
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will keep them fresh for about 2 months. Just remember to thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving to enjoy that creamy texture.
What should I do if my cake layers don’t rise properly?
If your cake layers don’t rise, check that your baking soda is fresh. It should bubble when mixed with vinegar. Make sure to mix the batter just until combined and don’t overmix, as it can lead to denser layers.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re minimizing fat, using Neufchâtel cheese instead of cream cheese works well. Additionally, you can substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. Just ensure that the chocolate and other ingredients don’t contain any allergens for your guests.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Definitely! This Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cake can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just cover it well and store it in the refrigerator. This not only helps the flavors meld together beautifully but also saves you time for your gathering!
Perfect Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cake to Impress Friends
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans, then combine the dry ingredients in a bowl. Mix in wet ingredients, pour into pans, and bake until a toothpick comes out clean, about 25-30 minutes. Cool completely.
- Melt the dark chocolate gently in a double boiler. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with the melted chocolate and blend in the heavy cream until smooth and well combined.
- In a clean bowl, whip the heavy cream with confectioners' sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold this whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture, ensuring a light and airy texture.
- Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of the cheesecake mixture over it, then add a layer of mousse. Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, cheesecake, and mousse, finishing with mousse on top.
- Cover the assembled cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This will allow the layers to set beautifully, making slicing easier.
- Before serving, top with white chocolate chips and semisweet mini chocolate chips for a beautiful finish. Slice and enjoy!