Maggiano's Chocolate Zuccotto Cake Recipe
Maggiano’s Chocolate Zuccotto Cake is a favorite dessert that’s full of rich chocolatey flavors and creamy layers. It’s a perfect treat for anyone who loves chocolate. The cake layers are soft, moist, and full of rich chocolate flavor. The chocolate mousse filling is creamy and smooth which balance the rich cake perfectly. Together, they make a dessert that is delicious and looks amazing.
Equipment
- 2 9-inch round cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Spatula
- Offset spatula for frosting
- Knife or cake splitter for precise layers
Ingredients
For the Cake Layers
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot espresso or strongly brewed coffee
For the Chocolate Mousse Filling
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips melted
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream chilled
- ½ cup powdered sugar
For the Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ cups melted dark chocolate
- 2-3 tbsp heavy cream as needed for consistency
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Pans
- Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This will prevent the cakes from sticking to the pans and ensure easy removal later.
Step 2: Mixing the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients, including flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Then slowly add the eggs, one at a time, and mix well after each addition. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Step 3: Baking the Cakes
- Split the batter evenly between the cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Take the cakes out of the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then move them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Assembling the Zuccotto Cake
- Once the cakes have cooled, use a knife or cake splitter to level the tops if necessary. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of the chocolate mousse filling over the cake layer. Top with the second cake layer.
Step 5: Frosting the Cake
- Prepare your desired frosting, like a rich chocolate ganache or a fluffy buttercream. Use an offset spatula to evenly spread the frosting over the top and sides of the cake. Smooth the surface for a polished finish.
Step 6: Final Touches
- For a classic look, garnish the top of the cake with chocolate shavings or curls. You can also add fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flavor and texture.
Notes
When making this cake, keep in mind to follow the instructions carefully to ensure optimal results. Take your time to properly measure the ingredients and pay attention to the baking time to achieve a moist and delicious cake.