Tuxedo Cake
If you’ve ever been in the presence of a Tuxedo Cake, you know it’s a showstopper. This decadent dessert, with its rich layers of chocolate and white chocolate, is as beautiful as it is delicious. Imagine a luscious chocolate cake filled with velvety cream cheese frosting, elegantly adorned with both dark and white layers. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a sweet treat to brighten your day, Tuxedo Cake never fails to impress. Let’s dive into this recipe that combines the best of both chocolate worlds.
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
Tuxedo Cake is the perfect dessert for gatherings, parties, or even a cozy family dinner. Its striking appearance, with contrasting layers of chocolate and white chocolate, makes it a visual delight that captures attention. But it’s not just about looks; the combination of flavors and textures—rich chocolate paired with creamy frosting—creates a mouthwatering experience that pleases all palates. Each bite is a celebration, making it an ideal centerpiece for any dessert table.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup warm coffee
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, not Dutch process
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 6 ounces white chocolate, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
- 16 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
Setup & Equipment
- Two 9-inch round cake pans
- Parchment paper (to line the pans)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Spatula
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
- Cooling rack
- Offset spatula (for frosting)
Tuxedo Cake in Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line your two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This will help the cake layers come out easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of vegetable oil, 1 cup of warm coffee, 2 large eggs (at room temperature), and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, ¾ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the White Chocolate Ganache
In a double boiler or microwave, melt 6 ounces of chopped white chocolate with 1 tablespoon of butter. Stir until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before incorporating it into the whipped cream.
Step 7: Whip the Cream
In a mixing bowl, beat ¾ cup of heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the melted white chocolate into the whipped cream until well combined. This will be your light and airy white chocolate filling.
Step 8: Prepare the Semi-Sweet Chocolate Ganache
Melt 16 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate in the same way as the white chocolate. Allow it to cool slightly before folding it into 2 cups of heavy whipping cream that has been whipped to soft peaks. This will create a rich chocolate frosting.
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of the white chocolate filling over the first layer. Place the second layer on top and generously frost the entire cake with the semi-sweet chocolate ganache.
Step 10: Decorate and Serve
Feel free to get creative with your decorations! You can sprinkle chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or even edible flowers on top. Slice the cake and serve it to your guests. Prepare for the oohs and aahs!
What to Use Instead
- For vegetable oil, you can use canola oil or melted coconut oil.
- If you don’t have warm coffee, you can substitute it with warm water or milk.
- In place of semi-sweet chocolate, you can use dark chocolate or milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor.
- For heavy whipping cream, you may use coconut cream for a non-dairy option.
Behind-the-Scenes Notes
When preparing Tuxedo Cake, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results. This helps in achieving a smooth batter and a perfectly risen cake. Also, let your chocolate cool slightly before mixing into the whipped cream; if it’s too hot, it can collapse the cream.
- A cake leveler can be helpful if you want to make your layers perfectly flat.
- This cake can be made a day in advance; refrigerate overnight for flavors to meld.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
Once assembled, Tuxedo Cake should be stored in the refrigerator due to the cream filling and frosting. It can last up to 3 days in the fridge. If you need to rewarm slices, consider a few seconds in the microwave, just enough to take the chill off and enhance the chocolate flavors.
Common Qs About Tuxedo Cake
Can I make Tuxedo Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. Assemble the cake the day you plan to serve it for the freshest taste.
What’s the best way to frost a Tuxedo Cake?
Using an offset spatula for frosting will give you the best control. Start with a crumb coat to seal in the crumbs, refrigerate it for 30 minutes, then apply a final coat of frosting for a smooth finish.
Is Tuxedo Cake suitable for special diets?
While this recipe is not gluten-free, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For dairy-free options, use plant-based alternatives for cream and chocolate.
How can I enhance the flavor of the cake?
Adding a splash of flavored extract, like almond or coffee, can deepen the flavor profile. You can also incorporate spices like cinnamon or espresso powder for an extra kick!
What to Make After This
Save & Share
If you’ve enjoyed making Tuxedo Cake, don’t forget to share your creations on social media! Tag your photos and inspire others to indulge in this delightful dessert. Share the joy of baking with friends and family, and let them join in on the fun!
Tuxedo Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. From the moment you step into your kitchen to the final bite, each step is filled with love and creativity. Whether it’s for a celebration or just because, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy baking!
Tuxedo Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line your two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of vegetable oil, 1 cup of warm coffee, 2 large eggs, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, ¾ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- In a double boiler or microwave, melt 6 ounces of chopped white chocolate with 1 tablespoon of butter. Stir until smooth and let it cool slightly.
- Beat ¾ cup of heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold in the melted white chocolate.
- Melt 16 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate and allow it to cool slightly before folding it into 2 cups of heavy whipping cream that has been whipped to soft peaks.
- Once cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the white chocolate filling over it, then top with the second layer and frost with the semi-sweet chocolate ganache.
- Decorate as desired and serve to your guests.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
- This cake can be made a day in advance; refrigerate overnight.
- A cake leveler can help create perfectly flat layers.
