
Elegant Red Velvet Mousse Cake with a Stunning Mirror Glaze
Create a show-stopping dessert with this Red Velvet Mousse Cake, featuring velvety layers of red velvet cake, creamy vanilla mousse, and a glossy red mirror glaze. Perfect for special occasions, this cake is as delicious as it is visually impressive.
Ingredients
For the Red Velvet Cake Base:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 teaspoons red food coloring
For the Vanilla Mousse:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled
- ½ cup (115g) cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup (67g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For the Mirror Glaze:
- ½ cup (120ml) water
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk
- 4 oz (115g) white chocolate, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
- A few drops of red food coloring
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Base
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, oil, vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
- Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely and then slice it into two even layers.
Step 2: Make the Vanilla Mousse
- Bloom the gelatin by sprinkling it over 2 tablespoons of cold water and letting it sit for 5 minutes. Heat gently until dissolved.
- In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then mix in the vanilla extract and gelatin.
- Whip the heavy cream to soft peaks and fold it gently into the cream cheese mixture. Chill the mousse for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Place one layer of the cake into a springform pan. Spread half of the mousse evenly on top.
- Add the second cake layer and spread the remaining mousse on top, smoothing the surface.
- Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4–6 hours to set completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Mirror Glaze
- Bloom the gelatin in ½ cup water for 5 minutes.
- In a saucepan, heat sugar, water, and sweetened condensed milk over medium heat until just boiling.
- Remove from heat, stir in the gelatin, and pour over the white chocolate. Stir until smooth, then add red food coloring. Let the glaze cool to 90°F (32°C).
Step 5: Glaze and Decorate
- Remove the cake from the springform pan and place it on a wire rack over a tray.
- Pour the cooled mirror glaze over the cake, letting it drip evenly down the sides.
- Decorate the cake with chocolate pieces, whipped cream dollops, or edible sprinkles for an elegant touch.
Tips for Success
- Use gel food coloring for a bold, vibrant red glaze.
- Ensure the mousse is fully set before glazing to avoid uneven coverage.
- Strain the glaze to remove any lumps for a flawless finish.
Storage Instructions
- Keep the cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
- Avoid freezing the glazed cake to preserve its smooth texture.
Why This Cake Is a Show-Stopper
With its layers of moist red velvet cake, fluffy vanilla mousse, and glossy mirror glaze, this Red Velvet Mousse Cake is perfect for any celebration. It’s a delightful centerpiece that tastes just as amazing as it looks!