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

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, oil, vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
4. Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
5. 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

1. Bloom the gelatin by sprinkling it over 2 tablespoons of cold water and letting it sit for 5 minutes. Heat gently until dissolved.
2. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then mix in the vanilla extract and gelatin.
3. 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

1. Place one layer of the cake into a springform pan. Spread half of the mousse evenly on top.
2. Add the second cake layer and spread the remaining mousse on top, smoothing the surface.
3. Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4–6 hours to set completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Mirror Glaze

1. Bloom the gelatin in ½ cup water for 5 minutes.
2. In a saucepan, heat sugar, water, and sweetened condensed milk over medium heat until just boiling.
3. 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

1. Remove the cake from the springform pan and place it on a wire rack over a tray.
2. Pour the cooled mirror glaze over the cake, letting it drip evenly down the sides.
3. 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!