Elegant, rich, and utterly irresistible, the Tuxedo Bar Cake is the perfect dessert when you want to impress. With layers of dark chocolate cake, white and milk chocolate mousse, and a glossy ganache finish, this cake lives up to its name—it’s dressed to the nines and ready for any occasion.
Whether you’ve seen it in bakeries or want to recreate a gourmet treat at home, this show-stopping dessert is easier than it looks and well worth the effort.
What Is a Tuxedo Bar Cake?
A Tuxedo Bar Cake is a multi-layer chocolate dessert that combines rich flavors and contrasting colors, just like a tuxedo. Typically, it features:
- Moist dark chocolate cake layers
- Velvety white chocolate mousse
- Silky milk chocolate mousse
- Dark chocolate ganache or glaze on top
- Optional: A layer of chocolate chips or chocolate curls for texture and decoration
Each layer balances sweetness, richness, and lightness, making every bite a mix of textures and tastes. It’s a favorite for birthdays, celebrations, and holiday tables.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
✅ Visually stunning – looks like a fancy bakery cake
✅ Decadent but balanced – creamy mousse with moist cake
✅ Perfect for chocolate lovers – uses white, milk, and dark chocolate
✅ Great for special occasions – birthdays, dinner parties, holidays
✅ Customizable – make as bars, a round cake, or individual servings
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chocolate Cake Layer:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup hot water or coffee
- 1 large egg
For the White Chocolate Mousse:
- 4 oz white chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp gelatin (optional, for stability)
For the Milk Chocolate Mousse:
- 4 oz milk chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp gelatin (optional)
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 tbsp butter (for shine)
How to Make Tuxedo Bar Cake – Step-by-Step
1. Make the Chocolate Cake Base
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix dry ingredients in one bowl and wet in another. Combine, add hot water or coffee, and mix until smooth. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch pan or bar pan. Bake 25–30 minutes. Cool completely.
2. Prepare the White Chocolate Mousse
Melt white chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form, then fold into cooled melted chocolate. Add bloomed gelatin for extra hold if desired. Chill in fridge for 15–20 minutes.
3. Layer White Mousse on Cake
Spread white mousse evenly over the cooled chocolate cake. Chill until set (at least 30 minutes).
4. Make and Layer Milk Chocolate Mousse
Repeat the same steps with milk chocolate. Spread over the set white chocolate layer. Chill again until firm.
5. Prepare the Ganache
Heat cream until just boiling. Pour over chopped dark chocolate and butter, stir until smooth. Let cool slightly before pouring over the top layer of mousse. Smooth out for a glossy finish.
6. Chill and Decorate
Refrigerate for 2–4 hours or until fully set. Decorate with chocolate curls, chips, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
Variations and Tips
- Use brownie base for an extra fudgy version
- Add a raspberry or cherry layer for tart contrast
- Make mini tuxedo cakes in ramekins or jars
- Use stabilized whipped cream for longer hold if prepping ahead
- Add crunch with a chocolate cookie or nut layer at the bottom
Serving Suggestions
Slice into clean bars using a hot knife for the best presentation. Serve with:
- A dollop of whipped cream
- Fresh berries
- Coffee or espresso
- A glass of red wine or dessert liqueur
Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days
- Freezer: Freeze in slices for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge
Final Thoughts
The Tuxedo Bar Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. Layer after layer of chocolate bliss, dressed in its finest for any special moment. Whether you’re serving it at a celebration or treating yourself to something truly indulgent, this cake brings a perfect balance of elegance and comfort.
Go ahead—put on your apron and bake something unforgettable. 🍫🎩