There’s a certain joy that comes from creating desserts that fuse culture and taste, and that’s exactly what inspired me to craft this Rabdi Mousse Cake. Picture this: a luscious, fluffy cake soaked in a trio of milks, layered with velvety Rabdi mousse, and enveloped in a delightful white chocolate shell. It’s a delightful twist on the cherished South Asian dessert, Shahi Tukda, transformed into a showstopper for any occasion.
The magic of this cake lies not just in its stunning appearance but in its remarkable ease of preparation, making it an ideal centerpiece for gatherings where you want to impress without the stress. As the aroma of cardamom wafts through the air, you may just find yourself transported to memories of festive celebrations, where sweet treats and shared laughter abound.
Get ready to dive into the world of fusion desserts, where tradition meets luxury, and let this Rabdi Mousse Cake be your next culinary adventure!
Why is Rabdi Mousse Cake a Must-Try?
Heavenly Fusion: This dessert brilliantly combines South Asian flavors and traditional desserts, making it a unique crowd-pleaser.
Showstopper Appeal: With its stunning layers and gleaming white chocolate shell, it’s the perfect centerpiece for parties and celebrations.
Effortless Preparation: The straightforward steps ensure even novice bakers can achieve impressive results, making it a stress-free treat.
Versatile Treat: Customize it with different flavors or fillings, such as chocolate or fruit, to suit any palate.
Memorable Taste: Experience the delightful contrast of textures—from the moist, soaked cake to the creamy mousse and crispy shell—everyone will be raving!
For more tips on creating stunning desserts, check out our guide on easy desserts for special occasions.
Rabdi Mousse Cake Ingredients
Let’s gather everything you’ll need to create this delightful masterpiece!
For the Cake Base
- Eggs – Structure and moisture, separate whites for fluffy texture.
- Granulated Sugar (35g) – Sweetness; coconut sugar can deepen the flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour (40g) – Provides structure; use gluten-free flour if necessary.
- Liquid Whipping Cream (80ml) – Adds creaminess and stability; crucial for texture.
For the Rabdi
- Condensed Milk (180ml) – Richness and sweetness; opt for sugar-free if preferred.
- Evaporated Milk (50ml) – Imparts a creamy milk flavor; regular milk works in a pinch.
- Milk Powder (85g) – Key for Rabdi texture; substitute with a plant-based version for non-dairy.
- Corn Flour (5g + slurry with 30g milk) – Thickens Rabdi; arrowroot flour can be a good alternative.
- Cardamom Powder (1/2 tsp) – Adds aromatic flavor that elevates the dessert.
For the Mousse
- Gelatin (6g) – Stabilizer for the mousse; use agar-agar for a vegetarian option.
- Liquid Whipping Cream (70ml) – Essential for creating a light and airy mousse.
- White Chocolate (125g) – Sweetness and creamy texture; dark chocolate works for a richer taste.
For the Chocolate Shell
- White Chocolate (200g) – Provides a glossy finish; mix with neutral oil for smoothness.
- Nuts (60g, chopped) – Adds a delightful crunch; pistachios or almonds are excellent choices.
Now that you have the Rabdi Mousse Cake ingredients ready, prepare for a delightful culinary experience that will impress everyone!
How to Make Rabdi Mousse Cake
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Prepare Cake Base: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a mixing bowl, whip the egg yolks with half of the granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and pale. This step is crucial for a light cake!
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Whip Egg Whites: In a separate clean bowl, whip the egg whites until you achieve stiff peaks. This will add structure to your cake, making it soft and airy.
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Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture. Be gentle to maintain the airy texture, then slowly add the all-purpose flour, mixing just until incorporated.
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Bake: Pour the batter into a prepared baking pan and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely.
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Soak with Milk: Poke holes in the cooled cake with a toothpick. Prepare a three-milk mixture using evaporated milk, condensed milk, and cream, then pour it over the cake to soak. This will ensure it’s moist and flavorful!
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Make Rabdi: In a saucepan, cook the milk powder, water, and remaining sugar until the mixture thickens. Add the cornstarch slurry to help it set, and let it cool down for a perfect texture.
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Prepare Mousse: Bloom gelatin in a little water. Mix it with the warm Rabdi until fully dissolved. Once cooled, carefully fold in the whipping cream to create a light, airy mousse.
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Assemble Cake: Layer the soaked cake with the rabdi and mousse, spreading evenly. Chill in the refrigerator for 6-8 hours or overnight to set.
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Chocolate Shell: Melt white chocolate and mix with a touch of neutral oil for smoothness. Stir in the chopped nuts. Pour this mixture over the set mousse layer, ensuring it covers thoroughly.
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Final Chill: Return the cake to the fridge to let the chocolate shell set completely before serving.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top for added texture and a touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Rabdi Mousse Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to unleash your inner creativity and customize this delicious dessert with these playful twists!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute all dairy ingredients with coconut milk and cashew cream for a creamy non-dairy version.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a cake that everyone can enjoy!
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Chocolate Lovers: Mix dark chocolate into the mousse and shell for a rich, decadent flavor that enhances the dessert’s overall appeal.
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Fruity Delight: Fold in fresh fruit purees or chopped fruits, like mango or strawberries, into the mousse for a refreshing twist.
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Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg alongside cardamom to amplify flavor and invoke warm spices reminiscent of cozy gatherings.
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Nutty Textures: Instead of just nuts for garnish, create a nut-flour crust at the bottom of the cake for an added crunchy layer.
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Matcha Mousse: Whisk matcha powder into the mousse for a stunning green color and a unique flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness.
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Coconut Whip: Use whipped coconut cream as a topping instead of traditional whipped cream for an exotic twist that complements the cake beautifully.
Expert Tips for Rabdi Mousse Cake
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Precision Matters: Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements. This ensures your Rabdi Mousse Cake turns out perfectly every time!
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Soaking Technique: Ensure to soak the cake in the three-milk mixture while it’s still in the assembly dish. This prevents breakage and allows for even absorption.
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Cool Ingredients: Allow all components, especially the Rabdi and mousse, to cool down before mixing. This will help achieve a light and airy mousse texture.
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Chocolate Temperature: Melt the white chocolate at a low heat to avoid clumping. Taking your time ensures a smooth, glossy chocolate shell for your cake.
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Add a Twist: For added excitement, consider flavoring your mousse with fruit purees or even a dash of espresso to complement the sweetness of the Rabdi Mousse Cake.
Storage Tips for Rabdi Mousse Cake
Fridge: Store your Rabdi Mousse Cake in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps it fresh while preventing any absorption of odors from the fridge.
Freezer: If you want to keep the cake for longer, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen cake, transfer it to the fridge and let it thaw overnight before serving. This will help retain its texture and flavor.
Reheating: Serve chilled as it’s best enjoyed cold, but if you prefer a slightly warmed dessert, remove the chocolate shell before gently reheating in the microwave for a few seconds.
What to Serve with Rabdi Mousse Cake?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides and drinks that perfectly complement this luscious dessert.
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Mint Chutney: This refreshing condiment adds a burst of zesty flavor, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the cake’s richness.
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Saffron Rice: Soft, aromatic saffron-infused rice brings an additional layer of warmth and luxury, making for an impressive showcase on your table.
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Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits not only adds a splash of freshness but also lightens the meal, creating harmony with the rich cake.
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Cardamom Tea: This warm, spiced beverage mirrors the cake’s aromatic notes, bringing a comforting finish to your meal.
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Raspberry Coulis: Drizzle this tangy sauce over the cake to add a delightful contrast of flavors, enhancing both presentation and taste.
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Coconut Ladoo: These bite-sized treats echo the cake’s decadent quality while providing varied texture and flavor that guests will adore.
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Chocolate Coffee Mousse: Serve a mini portion of this rich mousse alongside for a delightful pairing that adds depth to both flavors.
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Sparkling Rose: Pop open a bottle of this crisp, fruity drink, and let the effervescence delight your palate while elevating the overall dessert experience!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Rabdi Mousse Cake in advance is a brilliant way to lighten your kitchen workload, especially when hosting. You can bake the cake base up to 24 hours ahead of time, allowing it to cool completely before soaking it in the three-milk mixture to keep it moist and flavorful. The Rabdi can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just make sure it’s completely cool before refrigerating to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the soaked cake with the mousse and chill overnight for the best results. This way, you’ll have an impressive dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort!

Rabdi Mousse Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right eggs for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting eggs, look for ones that are fresh and have a clean, uncracked shell. Ideally, you want eggs that are within their “sell by” date, as this ensures maximum freshness and the best results for your Rabdi Mousse Cake.
How should I store leftover Rabdi Mousse Cake?
You can store your Rabdi Mousse Cake in the fridge, wrapped tightly or in an airtight container, for up to 4 days. This will help maintain its moist texture while preventing any odor absorption. If you’d like to store it longer, consider freezing it!
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Can I freeze Rabdi Mousse Cake, and if so, how?
Very! To freeze your Rabdi Mousse Cake, wrap the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, transfer it to the fridge and let it thaw overnight for the best flavor and texture.
What if my mousse is too runny?
If your mousse turns out runny, it may not have set properly due to insufficient cooling or not enough gelatin. Here’s a quick fix: gently warm the mixture again, allowing it to dissolve the gelatin. Then, let it cool completely before re-folding in whipped cream. Make sure to chill it properly afterward to allow the mousse to set!
Is this cake suitable for people with dietary restrictions, like gluten or dairy allergies?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt the Rabdi Mousse Cake to cater to dietary needs. For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk powder and an appropriate alternative for condensed milk. These modifications ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful dessert!
Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Very! Dark chocolate can be an excellent alternative for the chocolate shell and mousse, giving the dessert a richer and more complex flavor. Just keep in mind to monitor the sugar levels as dark chocolate can be less sweet than white chocolate, allowing those traditional flavors to shine through!

Indulge in Heavenly Rabdi Mousse Cake for Any Celebration
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a mixing bowl, whip the egg yolks with half of the granulated sugar until fluffy and pale.
- In a separate clean bowl, whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture, then slowly add the all-purpose flour, mixing just until incorporated.
- Pour the batter into a prepared baking pan and bake for about 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool completely.
- Poke holes in the cooled cake. Prepare a three-milk mixture using evaporated milk, condensed milk, and cream, then pour it over the cake to soak.
- In a saucepan, cook the milk powder, water, and remaining sugar until thickened. Add the cornstarch slurry to help it set and let it cool.
- Bloom the gelatin in water. Mix it with warm Rabdi until fully dissolved, then fold in the whipping cream to create a light mousse.
- Layer the soaked cake with the rabdi and mousse, spreading evenly. Chill in the refrigerator for 6-8 hours or overnight to set.
- Melt white chocolate, mix with neutral oil, stir in chopped nuts, and pour over the mousse layer. Ensure it covers thoroughly.
- Return the cake to the fridge to let the chocolate shell set completely before serving.







