Showstopping Red Velvet Mousse Cake with Glossy Mirror Glaze

Delight your loved ones with this Red Velvet Mousse Cake featuring luscious layers of moist red velvet, velvety vanilla mousse, and an eye-catching mirror glaze. This decadent dessert is perfect for celebrations or when you want to indulge in a bakery-style treat at home.

Ingredients

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

Vanilla Mousse Filling:

• 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

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 your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
3. In another bowl, combine egg, buttermilk, oil, vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
4. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
5. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely before slicing into two layers.

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Mousse

1. Bloom the gelatin by sprinkling it over cold water and letting it sit for 5 minutes. Heat gently until dissolved.
2. In a bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract and the gelatin mixture.
3. Whip the heavy cream to soft peaks, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture. Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Place the first layer of cake in a springform pan. Spread half of the vanilla mousse evenly on top.
2. Add the second layer of cake and cover with the remaining mousse. Smooth the top and refrigerate for 4–6 hours or until fully set.

Step 4: Prepare the Mirror Glaze

1. Bloom the gelatin in ½ cup of water for 5 minutes.
2. Heat sugar, water, and sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan until just hot. Remove from heat and stir in the gelatin until dissolved.
3. Pour the mixture over the chopped white chocolate and stir until smooth. Add red food coloring to create a vibrant glaze. Let the glaze cool to 90°F (32°C).

Step 5: Glaze the Cake

1. Remove the cake from the springform pan and place it on a wire rack over a baking tray.
2. Slowly pour the mirror glaze over the cake, letting it cover the sides evenly.
3. Decorate with chocolate shards, whipped cream, or sprinkles as desired. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.

Expert Tips

• For a perfectly smooth glaze, strain it through a fine mesh sieve to remove any lumps or bubbles.
• Ensure the cake and mousse are well-chilled before applying the glaze for the best results.
• Use gel-based food coloring for a richer hue.

Storage Instructions

• Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Avoid freezing the glazed cake as it may affect the texture.

Why This Cake Stands Out

This Red Velvet Mousse Cake combines a moist cake base, fluffy mousse, and a glossy finish for a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just treating yourself, this cake guarantees compliments from every guest.