If you are craving a cake that blends the richness of chocolate with the delicate sweetness of vanilla, you have to try this Tuxedo Cake with Vanilla and Chocolate Layers Recipe. It’s a showstopper dessert, boasting beautiful contrasting layers that enchant the eyes and taste buds alike. The moist chocolate and tender vanilla layers harmonize perfectly under a luscious swirl of cream and chocolate ganache, creating a slice of pure joy. Whether it’s for a special occasion or an everyday treat, this cake will quickly become your new favorite indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Tuxedo Cake with Vanilla and Chocolate Layers Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building the cake’s texture, flavor, and appearance. From the cocoa powder that delivers deep chocolate richness to the butter that adds moistness and softness, every component works together like a delicious symphony.
- 1 cup flour (chocolate cake layers): Provides the structure you need for sturdy yet soft layers.
- 1 cup sugar (chocolate cake layers): Sweetens and enhances the chocolate notes perfectly.
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder: Infuses rich chocolate flavor and a deep color to the cake.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise beautifully and become light.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder: Adds extra lift and softness to the texture.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- 1 egg (chocolate cake layers): Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- 1/2 cup milk (chocolate cake layers): Moisturizes the batter for a tender crumb.
- 1/4 cup oil: Keeps the chocolate layers wonderfully moist.
- 1 tsp vanilla (chocolate cake layers): Enhances the overall flavor complexity.
- 1/2 cup hot water: Elevates the cocoa which softens the chocolate profile beautifully.
- 1 cup flour (vanilla cake layers): Creates a light, fine crumb for contrast.
- 3/4 cup sugar (vanilla cake layers): Sweetens the vanilla layers delicately.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Raises the vanilla cake for fluffy softness.
- 1/4 tsp salt (vanilla cake layers): Sharpens all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 cup milk (vanilla cake layers): Adds that smooth, silky texture.
- 1/4 cup butter, melted: Imparts richness and tenderness.
- 1 egg (vanilla cake layers): Provides structure and moisture.
- 1 tsp vanilla (vanilla cake layers): The star flavor of the vanilla layers.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Whipped to a perfect cloud for the frosting and filling.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream without graininess.
- 1 tsp vanilla (frosting & filling): Brings depth to the whipped cream.
- 1 cup chocolate ganache (semi-sweet chocolate + warm cream): Provides luscious, silky chocolate that crowns the entire cake.
How to Make Tuxedo Cake with Vanilla and Chocolate Layers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter
Begin by mixing all the dry chocolate cake ingredients in one bowl: flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, oil, and vanilla. Combine the wet and dry ingredients gently, then slowly stir in the hot water to bring everything together into a smooth, chocolatey batter that will yield moist, rich cake layers.
Step 2: Make the Vanilla Cake Batter
For the vanilla layers, whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in one bowl. Separately, mix the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla. Blend wet and dry ingredients together until smooth and creamy, setting the stage for tender, fluffy vanilla cake layers with an understated sweetness.
Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers
Preheat your oven and line round cake pans with parchment. Pour the chocolate batter into one pan and the vanilla batter into another. Bake both at the recommended temperature until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and the cakes spring back softly from a gentle touch. Cool the layers completely before assembling your masterpiece.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting and Filling
Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form; this airy whipped cream will act as both frosting and filling. For the ganache, gently melt semi-sweet chocolate with warm cream until glossy and silky. Keep it warm for easy drizzle later.
Step 5: Assemble the Tuxedo Cake
Start with a chocolate layer on your cake board or plate, then spread a generous layer of whipped cream. Add a vanilla layer on top and more whipped cream. Alternate until all layers are stacked. Frost the cake with the remaining whipped cream, then drizzle the chocolate ganache over the top to create that elegant tuxedo look that gives the cake its name.
How to Serve Tuxedo Cake with Vanilla and Chocolate Layers Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little grated chocolate or chocolate shavings on top to add texture and visual appeal. Fresh berries, especially raspberries or strawberries, not only provide a pop of color but also a bright contrast to the creamy layers. A light dusting of cocoa powder or edible gold flakes can elevate the presentation to elegant party-worthy status.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of rich espresso or a creamy latte, as the coffee flavors enhance the chocolate’s complexity. Additionally, a fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side complements the cake’s lusciousness without overpowering it, making for a balanced dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dramatic reveal, serve the cake slice with alternating layers visible on a clear glass plate or cake stand. You might also try layering smaller individual cakes in mason jars for charming single servings, perfect for parties. Another fun idea is to add edible flowers between the layers for a look that’s both whimsical and decadent.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once assembled, keep your Tuxedo Cake with Vanilla and Chocolate Layers Recipe refrigerated to maintain freshness. Wrap it loosely with plastic wrap or use an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing fridge odors. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake for longer storage by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It’s best frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator so the layers remain moist and the whipped cream texture stays intact.
Reheating
Since this cake is best served chilled because of its creamy layers and ganache, reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow it to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors and soften the whipped cream just enough for delightful bites.
FAQs
Can I substitute the oil in the chocolate cake layers?
Yes, you can use melted butter instead of oil for a richer flavor, but oil tends to keep the chocolate cake layers moister over time. Choose what suits your taste best!
Is it necessary to use hot water in the chocolate cake batter?
Absolutely! The hot water blooms the cocoa powder, intensifying the chocolate flavor and making the cake incredibly moist. Don’t skip this step!
How do I make the perfect chocolate ganache for this recipe?
Use equal parts semi-sweet chocolate and warm heavy cream. Stir gently until smooth and glossy. If it appears thick, add more warm cream a teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I use store-bought frosting instead of homemade whipped cream?
While you can, the homemade whipped cream in this Tuxedo Cake with Vanilla and Chocolate Layers Recipe adds a light and fresh element you won’t get from store-bought options. It’s worth the extra effort for taste and texture.
What’s the best way to ensure even cake layers?
Use a scale for equally sized batter portions, level the batter in the pans with a spatula, and rotate them halfway through baking for even heat exposure. This will give you those perfect, uniform layers.
Final Thoughts
Making this Tuxedo Cake with Vanilla and Chocolate Layers Recipe is like inviting a slice of celebration into your home. Its balance of flavors, beautiful presentation, and decadent frosting blend together in a way that’s simply irresistible. Once you try it, you’ll want to bake it again and again to share with friends, family, or just to treat yourself. Go ahead and dive into this delightful dessert—you won’t regret every spoonful of love baked into it!
Print
Tuxedo Cake with Vanilla and Chocolate Layers Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including cooling and chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A classic Tuxedo Cake featuring rich vanilla and chocolate layers, elegantly frosted with whipped cream and chocolate ganache. This layered dessert seamlessly combines the deep flavors of chocolate cake with the lightness of vanilla cake, finished with a creamy, luscious frosting perfect for any special occasion.
Ingredients
Chocolate Cake Layers
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup hot water
Vanilla Cake Layers
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Frosting & Filling
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate ganache (made from semi-sweet chocolate and warm cream)
Instructions
- Prepare Chocolate Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the egg, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Combine the wet ingredients with dry ingredients, then slowly stir in the hot water to create a smooth batter.
- Bake Chocolate Cake Layers: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the chocolate batter into greased and floured cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely before removing from pans.
- Prepare Vanilla Cake Batter: In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth.
- Bake Vanilla Cake Layers: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the vanilla batter into greased and floured cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool fully before removing from pans.
- Make Chocolate Ganache: Gently warm semi-sweet chocolate and cream together until smooth and glossy. Let cool slightly to thicken but remain pourable.
- Prepare Whipped Cream Frosting: Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Keep refrigerated until ready to use.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one vanilla cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped cream frosting, then drizzle some chocolate ganache on top. Add a chocolate cake layer, repeating the frosting and ganache layers. Alternate all layers ending with cake on top.
- Frost the Cake: Use the remaining whipped cream frosting to coat the entire cake. Optionally drizzle extra ganache on top for decoration.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours before slicing to allow flavors to meld and frosting to set. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smoother batter and better rise.
- For best results, use high-quality cocoa powder and semi-sweet chocolate for ganache.
- The cake layers can be baked a day ahead and wrapped tightly to save time during assembly.
- Make sure whipped cream is well chilled before whipping for optimal volume.
- Adjust the sweetness of ganache by using darker or milk chocolate as preferred.
