If you’ve ever found yourself enchanted by the rich, decadent charm of Costco’s famous dessert aisle, you’re in for a treat. This Tuxedo Cake Costco Copycat Recipe captures all the luscious layers and velvety textures of that beloved cake and brings them right to your kitchen. From the moist chocolate cake layers to the silky chocolate and white chocolate mousses, topped with a glossy ganache that drips temptingly down the sides, every bite is a celebration of chocolate bliss. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to spoil yourself and your loved ones, making this cake will become a joyful ritual that delights all your senses.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Tuxedo Cake Costco Copycat Recipe lies not only in its luscious layers but in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each component—from flour to chocolate chips—plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures that make this cake unforgettable.
- All-purpose flour (1 ¾ cups): The sturdy base that gives structure and tenderness to the cake layers.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (¾ cup): Intensifies the chocolate flavor with a rich, deep hue.
- Granulated sugar (2 cups): Balances bitterness with the right sweetness for every chocolatey bite.
- Baking powder (1 ½ teaspoons) & baking soda (1 ½ teaspoons): Ensures the cake rises beautifully and stays light.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, sharpening the chocolate notes.
- Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and add moisture and richness.
- Buttermilk (1 cup): Provides acidity that tenderizes and adds a subtle tang.
- Vegetable oil (½ cup): Keeps the cake irresistibly moist without weighing it down.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): A fragrant undertone that rounds out the chocolate perfectly.
- Hot water (1 cup): Activates the cocoa and ensures a silky batter.
- Heavy whipping cream (3 cups): Used in mousses and ganache for that luxuriously creamy texture.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (2 cups total): Create both the chocolate mousse and ganache layers with deep, smooth flavor.
- White chocolate chips (1 cup): Bring a sweet, creamy contrast in the white chocolate mousse.
- Optional toppings: Shaved chocolate, chocolate curls, or piped whipped cream for that show-stopping finish.
How to Make Tuxedo Cake Costco Copycat Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layers
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Next, add in the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix everything until smooth, then slowly stir in the hot water—this will thin out the batter but is essential for keeping the cake moist and tender. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Once baked, let the cakes cool completely. For ultra-thin layers reminiscent of the Costco original, slice each cake in half once cooled to create four equally thin layers.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Mousse
Heat 1 cup of heavy cream just until it begins to simmer—do not boil. Pour it over 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and let sit for a minute to melt. Stir gently until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator until it thickens slightly, then whip it into a light, fluffy mousse. This layer will add that airy chocolate dreaminess that makes the tuxedo cake irresistibly elegant.
Step 3: Make the White Chocolate Mousse
Repeat the process used for the chocolate mousse with 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of white chocolate chips. The creamy sweetness of the white chocolate mousse contrasts beautifully with the darker chocolate components, creating the signature tuxedo pattern both visually and in flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Place one of the thin cake layers on your serving plate or cake board. Spread an even layer of chocolate mousse over it, followed by another cake layer. Then spread the white chocolate mousse. Continue to alternate layers—chocolate mousse, cake layer, white chocolate mousse—until all four layers are stacked, finishing with a cake layer on top. Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least one hour to set all the mousses nicely.
Step 5: Prepare and Add the Chocolate Ganache
Heat 1 cup of heavy cream until simmering and pour it over 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly so it thickens but remains pourable. Pour the ganache evenly over the top of the chilled cake, letting it drip down the sides in those beautiful tuxedo-like streams. Feel free to add optional toppings such as chocolate curls, shaved chocolate, or piped whipped cream to complete the look.
How to Serve Tuxedo Cake Costco Copycat Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your tuxedo cake thoughtfully elevates both appearance and flavor. Chocolate curls or shavings add a touch of elegance and extra cocoa crunch. Piped whipped cream rosettes bring softness and creaminess that pair wonderfully with the rich ganache, making each slice look professionally decorated and truly special.
Side Dishes
This cake shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a few carefully selected side dishes. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries add tart brightness, balancing the cake’s sweetness. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side also complements the lush chocolate layers and mousse with its creamy, cool sensation.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the usual round cake presentation and surprise your guests! Try serving individual slices on decorative plates with a drizzle of raspberry coulis or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for texture. For a party, offer mini versions of the Tuxedo Cake Costco Copycat Recipe in clear dessert cups, layering cake, mousse, and ganache for a stunning visual treat that’s easy to serve.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once assembled, the tuxedo cake is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve moisture and prevent the ganache from melting or sweating. Properly stored, slices will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it ideal for enjoying over multiple occasions.
Freezing
If you want to extend the shelf life, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When properly frozen, the cake maintains its flavor and texture for up to one month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving to keep the mousse layers soft and luscious.
Reheating
Since this cake is best served chilled, reheating is generally not recommended. However, if you prefer the ganache slightly softened, let the cake sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to mellow and the textures to become perfectly tender without losing that cool, creamy essence.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s acidity, which helps tenderize the cake and activate the leavening agents for a lighter texture.
Is it possible to make the mousse layers dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free chocolate chips to make both mousse layers vegan-friendly while retaining the creamy texture and rich chocolate flavor.
Why is the cake batter so thin after adding hot water?
The hot water helps dissolve the cocoa powder completely and blooms the chocolate flavor, creating a smooth and moist cake texture once baked. Though runny, this batter produces a wonderfully tender crumb.
How can I make slicing the cake layers easier?
Freeze the cake layers for about 30 minutes before slicing. This firms them up, making it much easier to cut thin, even layers without crumbling.
Can I prepare this cake a day ahead?
Yes, this cake actually benefits from resting a day in the refrigerator as the mousses firm up and all the layers meld together to deepen the flavors. Just remember to cover it well to keep it fresh.
Final Thoughts
Baking this Tuxedo Cake Costco Copycat Recipe is like inviting a little slice of dessert heaven into your own home. It is truly a showstopper that combines the best of chocolate in every layer—from cake to mousse to ganache. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just beginning your baking adventures, this cake is a deliciously rewarding project to share with family and friends. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a joyous favorite you’ll return to time and again.
