Mango Mousse Cake

If there’s ever a dessert that tastes like sunshine in a slice, this Mango Mousse Cake is it. Layers of soft, tender cake, silky mango mousse, and bright, tropical mango curd come together to create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Imagine biting into a light, fluffy cake that melts on your tongue, followed by the creamy sweetness of mango mousse and the zingy brightness of curd—it’s a tropical vacation in every bite.

This cake is perfect for summer celebrations, brunches, or simply treating yourself to something indulgent. It looks fancy, but the steps are approachable, so even if you’ve never made a mousse cake before, you’ll feel like a professional pastry chef by the time you’re done.

Recipe Origin

Mango mousse cakes are inspired by modern French patisserie techniques, combining classic European sponge cake with tropical fruit purees. Mango, with its natural sweetness and creamy texture, pairs perfectly with light whipped cream and a tender sponge. This layered dessert has become popular in Asia and tropical regions for its vibrant color, refreshing taste, and eye-catching presentation. It’s the kind of cake that’s as much about celebration as it is about dessert—it’s joyful, bright, and a little luxurious.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Sifter for dry ingredients
• Saucepan for mango curd
• Blender or food processor
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula for folding
• 8-inch cake pan or springform pan
• Parchment paper
• Whisk and small saucepan for gelatine
• Knife for slicing mangoes

Why You’ll Love Mango Mousse Cake

Tropical and Refreshing

Bright, juicy mango flavors make this cake a tropical treat that’s perfect for warm weather or anytime you want a taste of summer.

Light but Indulgent

The combination of airy sponge, silky mousse, and fruity curd creates a dessert that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.

Elegant Presentation

Smooth, layered, and beautifully colored, this cake impresses guests without requiring professional skills.

Customizable

You can swap mango for passionfruit, strawberry, or peach depending on seasonality or preference.

Make-Ahead Friendly

Mousse cakes need time to chill, which makes them perfect for preparing a day ahead.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Ensure mangoes are ripe and sweet for the best flavor.
• Chill your whipping cream until cold—it whips better and holds its structure.
• Bloom gelatine properly to avoid lumps in your mousse.
• Use parchment to line your cake pan for easy removal.
• Chill the assembled cake at least 4–6 hours, preferably overnight, for best slicing results.

Ingredients in Mango Mousse Cake

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Cake Layer Ingredients

Cake Flour: Provides a tender structure for the sponge layer.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Help the cake rise evenly.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the sponge lightly.
Milk: Keeps the cake moist.
Neutral Oil: Adds tenderness without flavor interference.
Egg: Binds and enriches the sponge.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and subtle flavor depth.

Mango Mousse Ingredients

Gelatine Powder: Ensures a stable, smooth mousse.
Cold Water: For blooming the gelatine.
Mango Chunks: The star ingredient—ripe and juicy for natural sweetness.
Whipping Cream: Creates a light, airy texture.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the mousse without grittiness.

Mango Curd Ingredients

Mango Chunks: Provides fresh, tangy flavor for the curd.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the curd to balance tartness.
Cornstarch & Water: Thicken the curd to the perfect consistency.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and silkiness to the curd.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Layer

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 8-inch cake pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, sift together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.

Make the Mango Curd

In a small saucepan, combine mango chunks, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and fold in cubed butter until smooth. Let the curd cool completely before layering.

Prepare the Mango Mousse

Bloom gelatine by sprinkling it over cold water and letting it sit for 5 minutes. Puree mango chunks in a blender until smooth. Heat a small portion of the mango puree gently and stir in the bloomed gelatine until dissolved. Let the mixture cool slightly. Whip cold cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form, then gently fold in mango puree until fully combined.

Assemble the Cake

Place the cooled sponge layer at the bottom of your cake pan. Spread a thin layer of mango curd over the cake. Pour mango mousse on top, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, ideally overnight, to set the mousse.

Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the cake from the pan and peel away parchment. Slice with a sharp knife for clean layers. Serve chilled for a refreshing, tropical dessert experience. Garnish with fresh mango slices or mint leaves if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: ~320
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 4–6 hours
Total Time: 5–6 hours 55 minutes

How to Serve Mango Mousse Cake

• Chilled and Fresh: The mousse is at its creamiest when served cold.
• With Fresh Fruits: Top with extra mango slices, passionfruit seeds, or berries.
• Elegant Dessert Plate: Drizzle with mango coulis or chocolate for presentation.
• Celebration Cake: Perfect for birthdays, brunches, or dinner parties.
• With Tea or Coffee: Pairs beautifully with light beverages to complement the fruitiness.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Assemble Ahead: Prepare the cake layers, mousse, and curd in advance. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
• Freezing: You can freeze the mousse cake after setting. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
• Leftovers: Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations to Try

• Substitute mango with passionfruit for a tart-sweet flavor.
• Layer with a thin coconut sponge for tropical flair.
• Add a white chocolate ganache drizzle for richness.
• Make individual mousse cakes in cups or molds for party servings.
• Mix in a few diced strawberries or raspberries into the mousse for contrast.

Additional Tips

• Ensure your mangoes are ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• Fold mousse gently to maintain airiness.
• Chill mousse before spreading for clean, defined layers.
• Slice with a warm knife for smooth cuts.
• Decorate with edible flowers or tropical fruit slices for a stunning finish.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use canned mangoes?
A1: Fresh mangoes are best for flavor and texture, but ripe canned mangoes work in a pinch.

Q2: Can I make this dairy-free?
A2: Substitute dairy milk and cream with non-dairy alternatives like coconut or almond milk.

Q3: Can I skip the curd?
A3: Yes, but the curd adds a tangy brightness that balances the sweet mousse.

Q4: Can I make it gluten-free?
A4: Use gluten-free flour in the cake layer for a safe alternative.

Q5: How long should I chill the mousse?
A5: At least 4–6 hours, preferably overnight, for the mousse to set properly.

Q6: Can I make individual portions?
A6: Yes, layer mousse and curd in small jars or molds for single servings.

Q7: Can I add gelatin sheets instead of powder?
A7: Yes, adjust the quantity as per instructions on the package for a smooth mousse.

Q8: How do I prevent the mousse from collapsing?
A8: Fold the mango puree gently into whipped cream and avoid overmixing.

Q9: Can I prepare this a day in advance?
A9: Definitely—it tastes even better after chilling overnight.

Q10: What’s the best way to serve slices cleanly?
A10: Use a hot, sharp knife and wipe between cuts for smooth layers.

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Conclusion

Mango Mousse Cake is the perfect marriage of soft sponge, luscious mango mousse, and tangy mango curd. It’s tropical, refreshing, and visually stunning—a dessert that impresses without intimidating. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can create a cake that tastes like sunshine and transports everyone who bites into it straight to a tropical paradise.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet, fruity indulgence, this cake is guaranteed to delight. Get ready to wow your friends, family, and most importantly, yourself, with this dreamy, mango-filled masterpiece.

Watch how to make this light and refreshing tropical cake