Why Make This Recipe
Tuxedo Bar Cakes are delicious, layered desserts that are perfect for any occasion. They present a beautiful contrast of colors with a rich chocolate cake base and a creamy white filling. This delightful combination is not only visually appealing but also incredibly tasty, making it a favorite among chocolate lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just a casual get-together, Tuxedo Bar Cakes are sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe.
Furthermore, this recipe is a great way to hone your baking skills. It incorporates essential baking techniques such as mixing batter, baking a cake, and making a cream filling. It’s a simple yet impressive dessert that can boost your confidence in the kitchen. Plus, you have the satisfaction of creating something from scratch that everyone will love.
How to Make Tuxedo Bar Cakes
Making Tuxedo Bar Cakes is a straightforward process that combines simple ingredients to create a stunning dessert. Here’s how you can create this delicious treat step by step.
Ingredients
For the Cake Layers:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
Directions
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a cake pan to ensure that the cake doesn’t stick.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This will form the dry mixture that gives the cake its structure.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, making the cake lighter.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs to the butter and sugar mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
Combine Ingredients: Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternately with the buttermilk. Start with a third of the dry mix, then add half of the buttermilk, and continue to alternate until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.
Cool the Cake: After baking, let the cake cool completely in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is important to prevent the cream cheese layer from melting when added.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Then, gently fold in the whipped heavy cream. This step gives the layer a light and airy texture.
Assemble the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, slice it in half horizontally. Spread the cream cheese mixture on top of one layer, then place the other layer on top to create a sandwich.
Serve and Enjoy: Your elegant Tuxedo Bar Cakes are ready to be served! Cut into squares or bars and enjoy this delicious dessert with family and friends.
How to Serve Tuxedo Bar Cakes
Tuxedo Bar Cakes can be served right after assembly or chilled for a bit in the refrigerator to help the layers set. It’s ideal to slice the cakes into small squares or rectangles, making them easy to serve at gatherings. You can garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top for an extra touch. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them great for dessert after a meal or as a sweet snack anytime.
How to Store Tuxedo Bar Cakes
Storing your Tuxedo Bar Cakes properly is essential to retain their flavor and texture. If you have leftovers, consider these storage tips:
Refrigerator: Place any remaining pieces in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They should last for about 3 to 4 days.
Freezer: If you want to store them for a longer time, you can freeze the cakes. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months this way. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Tips to Make Tuxedo Bar Cakes
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature before starting. This will help them blend more easily and create a smoother batter and cream layer.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Use Quality Cocoa Powder: The flavor of your cake largely depends on the quality of the cocoa powder you use. Opt for a good-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for the best results.
Chill the Cream Layer: If your cream cheese layer is too soft when you spread it, try chilling it in the fridge for about 15 minutes to make it easier to work with.
Experiment with Flavor: Feel free to add a touch of espresso powder to the cake batter for an extra depth of flavor. Additionally, trying different extracts, such as almond, can provide a unique twist to the dessert.
Variation
While Tuxedo Bar Cakes are delicious as is, you can make some fun variations to suit your taste:
- Add Nuts: Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be added to the cake batter for added flavor and texture.
- Fruit Layer: You can add a layer of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries, between the cake layers for a fruity twist.
- Different Frosting: Instead of a cream cheese layer, consider using a chocolate ganache or whipped cream frosting for a different taste altogether.
FAQs
1. Can I make Tuxedo Bar Cakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake layers and the cream cheese layer ahead of time. Assemble them the day you plan to serve for the best taste and texture.
2. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure that the blend you choose works well for baking.
3. Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Of course! If you’d like, you can use a different type of cake mix, such as vanilla or a flavored chocolate mix, to create your unique version of Tuxedo Bar Cakes. Just adjust the cream layer accordingly if the cake flavor differs.
Enjoy creating and sharing your delightful Tuxedo Bar Cakes! This elegant dessert is sure to make any occasion a bit more special. Happy baking!
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Tuxedo Bar Cakes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious layered dessert featuring a rich chocolate cake base and creamy white filling, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a cake pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and buttermilk alternately until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool the cake in the pan, then invert to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a bowl until smooth, then fold in whipped cream.
- Slice the cooled cake in half horizontally and spread cream cheese mixture on one layer, topping with the other layer.
- Slice into squares or bars and serve.
Notes
For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. You can chill the cream layer if it’s too soft.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: tuxedo cake, chocolate dessert, layered cake, baking, dessert recipe
