Vanilla Cake with Chocolate Mousse Filling Recipe

This vanilla cake with chocolate mousse filling is the kind of dessert that instantly feels special. Light, buttery layers of fluffy vanilla cake sandwich a rich, silky chocolate mousse that melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s the perfect balance of light and decadent—making it ideal for birthdays, holidays, or anytime you want to show off a little in the kitchen. With its soft crumb, deep chocolate center, and creamy finish, this cake looks elegant and tastes unforgettable.

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Cake:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk

For the Chocolate Mousse Filling:

1 1/4 cups heavy cream
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Optional Topping:

Whipped cream or chocolate ganache for frosting
Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish

Make the Vanilla Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla. Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before adding the mousse.

Make the Chocolate Mousse Filling

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butter. Heat 1/2 cup of the cream in a saucepan until just simmering, then pour over the chocolate. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth. Stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt. Let the chocolate mixture cool to room temperature. In a separate bowl, whip the remaining 3/4 cup cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled chocolate mixture until fully combined and fluffy. Chill for 10–15 minutes if it’s too soft to spread.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are fully cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread the chocolate mousse evenly over the top, then place the second cake layer on top. If desired, frost the entire cake with whipped cream or chocolate ganache for a more finished look. Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing to let the mousse firm up.

Final Thoughts

This vanilla cake with chocolate mousse filling is a dreamy combination of soft, rich, and elegant. The delicate vanilla layers paired with that luscious chocolate center make it a bakery-worthy dessert that feels luxurious without being overly heavy. Serve it at your next gathering, and watch it disappear slice by slice.