LongHorn’s legendary Chocolate Stampede is a dessert that captivates chocolate lovers from the very first moment it arrives at the table. Known for its indulgent layers of multiple kinds of chocolate—ranging from cake to mousse—this dessert is often considered the crown jewel of the LongHorn menu. Served with generous scoops of vanilla bean ice cream, the Chocolate Stampede is a sweet crescendo of textures and tastes, designed to satisfy even the most intense chocolate cravings.
From the outside, you see a towering slice of deeply rich chocolate cake layered with creamy chocolate mousse and topped with extra drizzles of chocolate sauce. The portion size is famously large, reflecting the name “Stampede.” Perfect for sharing (or savoring alone if your sweet tooth is big enough), the dessert resonates with the signature LongHorn flair: bold, comforting, and undeniably satisfying.
Flavor & Texture
Chocolate fans will appreciate the complexity of flavors in the Chocolate Stampede. Each layer delivers a slightly different tone of chocolate—from a semi-sweet cocoa presence in the sponge cake to a sweeter, silkier hit in the mousse. The drizzle on top and the chocolate ganache that often coats parts of the cake add depth and richness.
Texturally, it’s a feast. The cake layers provide a moist, spongy foundation, while the creamy mousse lends an airy, melt-in-your-mouth counterpoint. The drizzle and ganache can have a velvety consistency that complements the airy mousse. Alongside these chocolate elements, the scoop of vanilla bean ice cream brings a cool, smooth contrast that cuts through the sweetness and adds a hint of vanilla aroma.
Specialty
The Chocolate Stampede stands out because it doesn’t just offer one note of chocolate flavor; it layers multiple chocolate elements to create complexity. It is a specialty dessert that often marks a celebratory moment—like a birthday dinner or an indulgent night out. LongHorn’s approach is to elevate dessert to a grand finale, and the Chocolate Stampede lives up to that expectation.
What also makes this dessert special is that it’s often served in a large portion, reaffirming the “stampede” moniker—implying an onrush of robust chocolate sensations. If you’re looking for a dessert that truly embodies the spirit of indulgence, this is it
Items & Toppings
- Chocolate Drizzle: A semi-sweet syrup poured over the top for added shine and sweetness.
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Typically served alongside or on top, lending a fresh vanilla flavor and cool contrast.
- Chocolate Shavings or Chips (optional): Some iterations feature extra chocolate pieces for visual appeal and texture.
- Whipped Cream (sometimes available): A dollop of whipped cream may be offered on the side for an additional creamy flourish.
Ingredients
While specific recipes can vary slightly, a typical Chocolate Stampede may include:
- Chocolate Cake Base: Flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, butter or oil, eggs, milk.
- Chocolate Mousse Layer: Heavy cream, sugar, cocoa or melted chocolate, gelatin or stabilizer (if used).
- Chocolate Ganache or Sauce: Heavy cream, butter, and high-quality chocolate.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Typically made from milk, cream, sugar, and vanilla extract/vanilla bean specks.
- Possible Garnishes: Powdered sugar, chocolate sprinkles, or chocolate syrup.
Contains Allergens
- Gluten/Wheat (in the cake)
- Milk/Dairy (chocolate, mousse, ice cream)
- Eggs (in the cake batter, possibly in the mousse)
- Soy (some chocolate products contain soy lecithin)
If you have food allergies or sensitivities, consult with your server to confirm the exact ingredients and possible cross-contamination in the kitchen.
Nutritional Information
The Chocolate Stampede is undeniably high in calories, sugar, and saturated fats due to the multiple layers of chocolate, cream, and ice cream. If you’re trying to moderate your intake, consider sharing it with a friend or family member. For those tracking nutrients, be mindful that each slice could easily exceed 1,000 calories. Sodium levels may vary depending on the preparation, but sugar and fat are the main nutritional considerations here.
Cooking Method
- Cake Preparation: The chocolate cake is likely baked in-house (or delivered prepared) and sliced into tall portions.
- Mousse Creation: The chocolate mousse typically requires whipping cream and carefully folding melted chocolate or cocoa.
- Assembly: The baked cake layers are stacked with alternating mousse layers, then chilled to set.
- Finishing Touches: Before serving, the slice is drizzled with chocolate sauce or ganache.
Price
Prices can vary by location and local market. Typically, the Chocolate Stampede is on the higher end of the dessert menu, often reflecting its ample serving size and premium chocolate ingredients. Expect to pay a bit more than standard desserts, but it’s often well worth the indulgence.
Serving Size & Preparation
The slice is famously large—often recommended for two people to share. It’s served chilled or slightly at room temperature, ensuring that the mousse stays firm but the cake remains moist. The accompanying scoop(s) of ice cream are usually placed on the side, allowing you to combine hot and cold sensations in each bite.
Conclusion
LongHorn’s Chocolate Stampede is an iconic dessert that delivers a symphony of chocolate flavors. It’s a memorable way to conclude a hearty meal, especially for chocolate enthusiasts. With rich layers, generous toppings, and a robust profile, this dessert is perfect for sharing on a special occasion or treating yourself when you need an extra dose of sweetness. Just be aware of its calorie and sugar load if you’re mindful of your diet. In the end, the Chocolate Stampede truly lives up to its name—delivering a stampede of chocolate bliss.
