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Gluten-free chocolate mousse cake

The Ultimate Gluten-Free Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe

This simple gluten-free chocolate mousse cake recipe creates a delightfully airy dessert with a deep, rich cocoa flavor that will captivate both young and old alike.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course desserts
Servings 8 portions
Calories 663 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chocolate Cake Base :

  • 100 g dark chocolate minimum 70% cocoa
  • 65 g granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 75 g unsalted butter
  • 25 g cornstarch Maïzena
  • 1 tablespoon brewed black coffee unsweetened

For the Chocolate Mousse :

  • 200 g dark chocolate
  • 100 g milk chocolate
  • 75 g unsalted butter
  • 400 ml heavy cream at least 30% fat
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar icing sugar

Instructions
 

Preparing the Chocolate Cake Base :

  • Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Grease a 22 cm (9-inch) round springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to ensure easy release.
  • Melt the chocolate and butter together using a double boiler (bain-marie) or in the microwave in short intervals. Stir until smooth and set aside to cool slightly.
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thickened—this step adds lightness to the base.
  • Incorporate the melted chocolate mixture (still warm, not hot) into the egg mixture, whisking continuously until smooth and well combined.
  • Add the coffee, then sift in the cornstarch and gently fold it in to avoid any lumps. This will help create a smooth, gluten-free batter.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. The cake should be set but still slightly soft in the center, maintaining a moist texture.
  • Let the cake cool completely in the pan before adding the mousse layer. This is essential to prevent the mousse from melting or separating.

Preparing the Chocolate Mousse :

  • Whip the cold heavy cream into soft peaks using an electric mixer. Keep the whipped cream chilled in the refrigerator while preparing the rest of the mousse.
  • Melt the dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and butter together over a gentle bain-marie or in the microwave. Stir until completely smooth and let cool slightly.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the powdered sugar for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes pale and slightly frothy.
  • Add the cooled chocolate mixture to the egg-sugar blend, whisking just enough to create a smooth, unified base.
  • Gently fold in the whipped cream in several additions using a spatula. Use upward folding motions to preserve the light, airy texture of the mousse.
  • Pour the mousse over the cooled cake base still in the pan. Smooth the surface with a spatula or offset knife for an even finish.
  • Refrigerate for at least 5 hours, or until the mousse is fully set. This resting time is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and clean slices.