Decadent Mocha Chocolate Layered Cake
This Decadent Mocha Chocolate Layered Cake is an indulgent dessert that features layers of rich mocha whipped cream and crisp chocolate chip cookies, creating a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Enhanced with the bold taste of Kahlua liqueur and a hint of espresso, this cake is perfect for any special occasion or just to satisfy your chocolate cravings. The ease of assembly and the overnight chilling time makes it a convenient dessert that can be prepared ahead, impressing your guests with its elegant presentation and deep flavors.
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cold heavy cream
2 cups (Chilled.)
Italian mascarpone cheese
12 ounces (Softened to room temperature.)
Sugar
1/2 cup (Granulated.)
Kahlua liqueur
1/4 cup (For flavor.)
Unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons (Sifted.)
Instant espresso powder
1 teaspoon (For enhanced coffee flavor.)
Pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (For flavor.)
Chocolate chip cookies
3 (8 ounce) packages (Preferred: Tate's Bakeshop.)
Shaved semisweet chocolate
For garnish (To decorate the top.)
Instructions
1
In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, combine the chilled heavy cream, softened mascarpone, granulated sugar, Kahlua liqueur, sifted cocoa powder, instant espresso powder, and pure vanilla extract. Begin mixing on low speed to incorporate the ingredients, then gradually increase to high speed until firm peaks form.
2
Prepare an 8-inch springform pan by arranging the chocolate chip cookies flat on the bottom, ensuring they cover the entire surface as closely as possible. Break some cookies if necessary to fill any gaps.
3
Spread one-fifth of the mocha whipped cream mixture evenly over the cookies, smoothing it out with a spatula.
4
Layer another set of cookies on top, placing them flat and ensuring they touch. Add another fifth of the mocha whipped cream on top. Repeat the layering process until you have five layers of cookies and five layers of cream, finishing with a layer of the whipped cream on top.
5
Smooth the top layer with a spatula, cover the pan with plastic wrap, and refrigerate the cake overnight to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.
6
When ready to serve, carefully run a small sharp knife around the outside edge of the cake to loosen it, then remove the sides of the springform pan. Dust the top generously with shaved semisweet chocolate.
7
Slice the cake into wedges, serve cold, and enjoy this decadent treat!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Decadent Mocha Chocolate Layered Cake?
It is an indulgent no-bake dessert featuring five layers of crisp chocolate chip cookies and rich mocha-flavored whipped cream.
Is this a no-bake recipe?
Yes, this is a no-bake cake that relies on overnight refrigeration to set and soften the cookie layers.
How many layers does the cake have?
The cake consists of five layers of chocolate chip cookies and five layers of mocha whipped cream.
What kind of cookies are recommended?
Tate's Bakeshop chocolate chip cookies are preferred for their crisp texture which softens perfectly when chilled.
Does this recipe contain alcohol?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/4 cup of Kahlua liqueur for flavor.
Can I make this cake without alcohol?
Yes, you can omit the Kahlua or substitute it with additional coffee or a bit of milk if desired.
How long does the cake need to refrigerate?
The cake must be refrigerated overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the cookies to reach the right consistency.
What size pan should I use?
An 8-inch springform pan is required for this recipe.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe serves approximately 8 people.
What are the main components of the mocha cream?
The cream is made from heavy cream, mascarpone cheese, sugar, Kahlua, cocoa powder, espresso powder, and vanilla.
Should the heavy cream be cold?
Yes, using chilled heavy cream is essential for achieving firm peaks during mixing.
What is the purpose of the mascarpone cheese?
The mascarpone adds richness and provides structural stability to the whipped cream layers.
How do I prepare the springform pan?
Arrange the cookies flat on the bottom of the pan, breaking them as needed to fill any gaps.
What do I do if there are gaps between the cookies?
Simply break some cookies into smaller pieces to ensure the entire surface of each layer is covered.
How do I finish the top of the cake?
The final layer should be the mocha whipped cream, smoothed over with a spatula.
What is used to garnish the cake?
The cake is garnished with a generous dusting of shaved semisweet chocolate.
How do I remove the cake from the springform pan?
Run a small sharp knife around the outside edge to loosen the cake before releasing the sides of the pan.
Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso powder?
Instant espresso powder is preferred for its concentrated flavor without adding extra liquid, but you can use a high-quality instant coffee.
Why should I sift the cocoa powder?
Sifting prevents lumps and ensures the mocha cream has a smooth, velvety texture.
What is the best way to serve the cake?
The cake should be served cold and sliced into wedges.
Is there a vegan option?
While the primary recipe uses dairy, you can substitute with plant-based heavy cream, vegan cream cheese, and vegan chocolate chip cookies.
Does the cake contain caffeine?
Yes, there is a small amount of caffeine from the instant espresso powder and the Kahlua.
Can I prepare this cake in advance?
Yes, because it requires overnight chilling, it is an excellent dessert to make a day ahead of your event.
What texture do the cookies have after chilling?
The cookies absorb moisture from the cream and take on a soft, cake-like texture.
What speed should I use to mix the cream?
Start on low speed to incorporate ingredients, then gradually increase to high speed until firm peaks form.
Can I use granulated sugar?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for granulated sugar to sweeten the mocha cream.
How many cookie packages do I need?
You will need three 8-ounce packages of chocolate chip cookies.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, the assembly is straightforward and requires no baking skills, making it very beginner-friendly.
What flavor does the Kahlua provide?
The Kahlua adds a deep coffee and rum-like flavor that complements the chocolate and espresso.
Can I freeze this cake?
It is best enjoyed fresh from the refrigerator, as freezing may change the texture of the mascarpone and cream.