Name: Malted Mousse Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 10.6 ounces shortbread cookies ((like Walkers Shortbread)); 1 cup sliced almonds; 6 tablespoons salted butter ((melted)); 2 ounces white chocolate ((chopped)); 1 cup whipping cream ((divided)); 1.25 ounces unflavored gelatin ((envelope)); 1 cup milk; 2 packages cream cheese ((8-ounce, at room temperature)); 1 cup granulated white sugar; 3 tablespoons malted milk powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Pastel colored malted milk candy eggs or malt balls ((for decoration))

Indulging in a slice of Malted Mousse Cake is like taking a delightful trip down memory lane, where every bite is filled with nostalgia and flavor. This cake combines the rich, creamy texture of mousse with the crunchy goodness of shortbread, creating a dessert that is not only beautiful but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for special occasions or just a cozy night in, this recipe will surely impress your friends and family. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this delicious creation.

Why This Recipe Works

The Malted Mousse Cake is a unique dessert that masterfully balances flavors and textures. The buttery shortbread crust serves as a perfect base, while the mousse filling provides a light, airy contrast. The addition of malted milk powder gives the cake an unmistakable flavor that enhances the white chocolate and cream cheese, creating a rich yet light dessert. Using unflavored gelatin ensures that the mousse sets perfectly, holding its shape while remaining delicate.

What You’ll Need

10.6 ounces shortbread cookies (like Walkers Shortbread)
1 cup sliced almonds
6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
2 ounces white chocolate, chopped
1 cup whipping cream, divided
1.25-ounce envelope unflavored gelatin
1 cup milk
2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, at room temperature
1 cup granulated white sugar
3 tablespoons malted milk powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Pastel colored malted milk candy eggs or malt balls for decoration

Before You Start: Equipment

9-inch springform pan: For easy removal of the cake.
Mixing bowls: For combining the ingredients.
Electric mixer: To whip the cream and combine the mousse ingredients.
Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl: For melting the white chocolate.
Rubber spatula: For folding ingredients together gently.

Mastering Malted Mousse Cake: How-To

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, pulse the shortbread cookies until they are fine crumbs. Combine these crumbs with the sliced almonds and melted butter in a mixing bowl until well mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate

In a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped white chocolate until smooth. If using a microwave, heat in 20-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent burning. Once melted, set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Gelatin

In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over 1/4 cup of the milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom. After blooming, heat the mixture gently until the gelatin is completely dissolved, then remove from heat.

Step 4: Make the Mousse Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, malted milk powder, and salt until smooth and creamy. Add the melted white chocolate and the dissolved gelatin mixture, stirring until well combined.

Step 5: Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whip the remaining 3/4 cup of whipping cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until no streaks remain. This will give your mousse a light and airy texture.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Pour the mousse filling over the cooled shortbread crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.

Step 7: Decorate and Serve

Once the mousse is set, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Decorate the top of the cake with pastel colored malted milk candy eggs or malt balls for a festive touch. Slice and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

Shortbread cookies: Use any buttery cookie if shortbread is unavailable.
Sliced almonds: You can substitute with crushed walnuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor.
White chocolate: If you prefer, use a dairy-free chocolate for a vegan version.
Granulated sugar: Coconut sugar or a sugar substitute can be used for a healthier option.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

To ensure your Malted Mousse Cake is a success, avoid the following common pitfalls:

Gelatin not blooming properly: Always allow the gelatin to sit in the milk for a few minutes before heating.
Mousse not setting: Make sure to refrigerate for the full time recommended.
Overmixing the whipped cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to preserve its light texture.
Crust falling apart: Press the crust mixture firmly into the pan and ensure it’s cooled before adding the mousse.

Shelf Life & Storage

The Malted Mousse Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge. For longer storage, you can freeze the mousse cake without the decorations for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

Reader Q&A

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! The Malted Mousse Cake is perfect for making ahead of time. Just be sure to allow adequate chilling time in the fridge before serving.

Can I use a different type of milk for this recipe?

Yes, you can use almond milk, oat milk, or any other milk alternative in this recipe. Just ensure that it is unflavored and unsweetened for the best results.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, swap the shortbread cookies for a gluten-free cookie option and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What can I do with leftover mousse?

If you have leftover mousse, you can serve it in individual cups as a delightful dessert or use it as a filling for cupcakes or other pastries.

That’s a Wrap

Creating the perfect Malted Mousse Cake is not only about the ingredients but also about the love and care you put into making it. The combination of textures and flavors makes this dessert a crowd-pleaser, and it’s sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, or just a special treat, this cake will shine at any occasion.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress with this delectable dessert that is as fun to make as it is to eat. Enjoy every bite of your Malted Mousse Cake!