The Cheesecake Factory's Chocolate Tower Cake (Copycat Recipe)

Indulge in a rich and decadent chocolate tower cake that mirrors the beloved dessert from The Cheesecake Factory. This recipe layers moist chocolate cake, creamy chocolate mousse, and a velvety chocolate ganache, creating a symphony of chocolate flavors and textures. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat at home, this cake is sure to impress while adhering to traditional baking principles.

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for mousse)
• 1 cup chocolate ganache (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
3. Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in boiling water until the batter is smooth; the batter will be thin.
5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
7. For the chocolate mousse, melt the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Allow it to cool slightly.
8. In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
9. Gently fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream until combined. Refrigerate until ready to use.
10. Once the cakes are cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of chocolate mousse on top, then place the second layer on top.
11. Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Decorate with any remaining mousse or chocolate shavings if desired.
12. Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to set the layers.